This article was featured in Eurofish Magazine 3 2025.
Latvia’s aquaculture sector is experiencing a significant transformation with the establishment of the TOME Aquaculture Centre. Developed by the Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment (BIOR) and supported by EU funding, the centre aims to bridge the gap between research and industry, providing expert guidance to modernize fish farming practices across the region. Completed in late 2023, the TOME Centre began operations in May 2024, focusing on sustainability and innovation. It has already attracted over 100 participants from 40 aquaculture farms across Europe through its international seminars and collaborative workshops. The facility offers advanced technologies and expertise in farming various species, including carp, burbot, and pikeperch. Its research extends to areas such as European catfish breeding and saltwater Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). BIOR’s experience in rearing juvenile fish for restocking programs, including Baltic salmon and sea trout, has further established TOME’s reputation as a regional leader. Latvian companies like Eko Ģilde, Skrunda, and Nagļi have already benefited from TOME’s resources, attending seminars on critical topics like fish health, welfare, and biosecurity. As the TOME Aquaculture Centre continues to expand its reach, it is expected to shape a more innovative and resilient aquaculture industry in Latvia and beyond.
