The Florida Shrimping Industry

Joyce, Edwin; Eldred, Bonnie

State of Florida, Board of Conservation, Division of Salt Water Fisheries. INTRODUCTION The State of Florida, with over 7,000 miles of coastline, is unique among the major shrimp producing states. This great length of coastline, stretching from almost temperate to almost tropical climates, allows for a great diversity in shrimp populations, and the major producing areas exhibit differences in both major species and the biology of these species. Consequently, sound conservation practices for one area may be useless or detrimental in another area. This factor has necessitated detailed research programs in each productive area. Under the direction and guidance of Mr. Robert M. Ingle, Director of Research, the Florida Board of Conservation has been instrumental in shrimp research throughout the State. During earlier years the Board contracted this work to the Institute of Marine Science, University of Miami. In 1955, the Board of Conservation established its own Marine Laboratory in St. Petersburg and this organization has conducted many important phases of the state-supported shrimp research. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has also played an important role in this field. Although not limited to the State of Florida, it has done some valuable exploratory work along both coasts. It has also financed additional research on basic shrimp biology through its own marine facilities and the Institute of Marine Science, University of Miami.