Krill, Aquaculture and a Healthy Antarctic Ocean

Krill are small, shrimp‑like animals that play a big role in the Southern Ocean around Antarctica. They are a natural food source for many iconic Antarctic animals, including whales, seals and penguins. Krill are also a valuable natural ingredient used in small amounts in modern aquaculture feeds to support fish health and welfare.

At BioMar Australia, we recognise that krill are both nutritionally valuable and ecologically important. That’s why we take a careful, responsible approach to how krill is sourced and used — guided by science, strict international rules and a strong commitment to protecting the Antarctic ecosystem.

A Well‑Managed Fishery in a Healthy Ecosystem

The Antarctic krill fishery is widely regarded as one of the best‑managed fisheries in the world. It operates under a highly precautionary, science‑based system designed to protect the entire ecosystem — not just krill.

Only a very small fraction of the total krill population is harvested each year — well under 1% of estimated biomass. This conservative limit ensures that plenty of krill remains in the ocean to support wildlife.

The results of this approach are visible across Antarctica:

• Humpback whale populations have rebounded strongly since the end of commercial whaling. Many populations are now close to, or have reached, pre‑whaling levels. These whales depend heavily on krill, and their recovery is a strong indicator that food availability in the Southern Ocean remains high.

• Penguin populations across much of Antarctica remain stable or healthy, particularly krill‑dependent species in areas where fishing occurs. This shows that krill harvesting is not depriving wildlife of food.

• The Antarctic food web remains intact, with krill continuing to support whales, seals, penguins, fish and seabirds at every level.

This is not accidental. It is the outcome of decades of careful science, constant monitoring and strict controls designed to ensure fishing never outpaces nature.

Why Krill Is Used in Aquaculture Feed

Krill meal is used in aquaculture feeds because it offers natural nutritional benefits that support fish health and welfare.

Krill contains:

• Highly digestible marine protein, which helps fish grow efficiently

• Natural phospholipids, important for cell health and development, especially in young fish

• Omega‑3 fatty acids, which support normal immune function and overall wellbeing

• Natural bioactive compounds, which help fish cope with environmental stress

These qualities make krill a useful ingredient when used carefully and in small amounts.

Helping Fish Eat Well — Naturally

Krill is also valued because fish naturally recognise it as food. When included in feed, it can help fish start eating more quickly and maintain consistent feeding.

This is especially important during periods of environmental stress, such as temperature changes, when fish appetite can drop. By helping fish eat reliably, krill supports good health and welfare throughout the production cycle.

Responsible Sourcing Comes First

Because krill are so important to the Antarctic ecosystem, BioMar Australia is committed to sourcing krill responsibly.

• All krill meal we use comes from by‑products of krill already harvested for human nutrition. This means no additional krill are caught for our feeds, and more of each harvest is used efficiently.

• Our suppliers operate under the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) — an international body that manages Antarctic fisheries using an ecosystem‑based approach.

• Krill fisheries supplying BioMar are also certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), the world’s leading independent sustainability standard for wild fisheries.

Every fishing vessel operates under strict quotas, carries independent scientific observers, and is closely monitored to ensure full compliance.

Supporting Sustainable Aquaculture — and Antarctica

At BioMar Australia, krill is used strategically and sparingly — never carelessly. We balance the benefits it provides in aquaculture with our responsibility to protect one of the most remarkable ecosystems on Earth.

The science is clear: Antarctic krill stocks remain abundant, wildlife populations that depend on krill are thriving, and the fishery is tightly controlled.

We believe sustainable aquaculture and a healthy Antarctic can — and must — go hand in hand.

Because like you, We Care about the Antarctic, and We Care about producing food responsibly for the future.