Freshwater prawn farming in Bangladesh: history, present status and future prospects

Within the overall agro-based economy in Bangladesh, freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) farming is currently one of the most important sectors of the national economy. During the last two decades, its development has attracted considerable attention for its export potential. Freshwater prawn farming offers diverse livelihood opportunities for a large number of rural poor. Although the prospects for prawn farming are positive, it requires some research and development activities for long-term sustainability. This paper provides an overview of freshwater prawn farming in Bangladesh.