The krill fishery operates in the pristine waters of the Southern Ocean under strict regulations set by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). This international management body limits the annual harvest to less than 1% of the estimated krill biomass, ensuring minimal impact on the ecosystem.
Scientific assessments support this cautious approach. For example, a 2019 survey estimated the krill biomass in Area 48 at approximately 63 million tones—an increase from earlier estimates in 2000. These figures reflect a stable and resilient krill population over the past two decades.
All vessels operating in the krill fishery are subject to 100% observer coverage, providing full transparency into onboard operations. In addition, the fishery has the lowest bycatch rates ever recorded for a trawl fishery—just 0.01% of the total catch—thanks to advanced harvesting methods like our patented Eco-Harvesting® technology.
This level of control, combined with real-time data collection and electronic monitoring, ensures precision harvesting that supports the broader food web while minimizing unintended impact.
The healthy state of Antarctic krill populations is reflected in the recovery and stability of predator species such as whales, seals, and penguins. These species rely on krill as a key food source, and their growth signals that current harvesting practices are not compromising the integrity of the ecosystem.
Since 2019, companies operating in the region have also implemented voluntary exclusion zones of over 74,000 km² around penguin colonies—effectively protecting critical foraging areas during the breeding season.
As climate change continues to affect marine ecosystems, the krill fishery remains a model of forward-thinking resource management. Industry-wide efforts focus on reducing carbon emissions, enhancing traceability, and adapting fishing practices to shifting environmental patterns.
At QRILL Aqua, this commitment is embedded in every part of our value chain—from sustainable sourcing and production to science-backed product development aimed at improving fish performance and welfare in aquaculture.
Krill-derived products offer more than just functional benefits for fish and shrimp. They represent a sustainable solution to reduce dependency on traditional feed ingredients with higher environmental footprints, such as fishmeal or land-based crops.
By integrating krill into aquafeed, producers can enhance palatability, improve growth performance, and contribute to more circular, low-impact aquaculture systems. For us at QRILL Aqua, it's not just about feed—it's about feeding the future sustainably.