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Japanese spark plug maker eyes shrimp RAS project with NaturalShrimp

Japanese spark plug maker Niterra Co. (formerly known as NGK Spark Plug) is dipping its toes into the shrimp recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) space with a recent licensing agreement with biotechnology aquaculture company, NaturalShrimp.

The agreement signed with Niterra will allow the Japanese company to use for trial purpose, NaturalShrimp’s shrimp growing technologies.

NaturalShrimp is known for its patenting a shrimp RAS technology for commercial use. Apart from manufacturing spark plugs, Niterra also explores opportunities in various business sectors, including mobility, food, medical, energy and environment. Niterra also intends to develop a sensor-enabled RAS. Niterra owns and operates a research facility for developing techniques and practices of shrimp cultivation.

“We currently have a team working on a land-based aquaculture system that detects changes in ammonia levels to stabilize the environment for healthy shrimp growth and production. We believe the use of NaturalShrimp’s proprietary technologies will further advance our capabilities to produce premium quality shrimp using a high degree of automation within an indoor environment,” said Dirk Schapeler, president of Niterra Ventures Company

Under the terms of the agreement, NaturalShrimp will provide Niterra access to its proprietary electrocoagulation (EC) and hydrogas technologies to test the suitability and viability of the patented technology in shrimp cultivation within small-scale, locally owned aquaculture farms.

The trial period is expected to take up to six months from the deployment of the required equipment at the chosen trial location. This equipment includes electrocoagulation equipment, hydrogas and water dosing equipment, assorted connectors and other necessary components.

“Niterra is the first company in Asia to license our technology, expanding our opportunity to provide fresh, naturally grown shrimp in one of the world’s largest seafood markets. We expect a successful initial trial that will lay the groundwork for additional agreements with different species,” said Gerald Easterling, chief executive of NaturalShrimp.