Joint Monitoring of the Alakol Lake by the “FishRPC” and “Balkhash-Alakol Inter-regional basin inspection of Fisheries”

In accordance with the letter of the Republican State Institution “Balkhash-Alakol Interregional Basin Inspection of Fisheries” (No. 30.2-02-27/293, dated April 31, 2026), and pursuant to Clause 33 of Article 9-1 of the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the Protection, Reproduction, and Use of Wildlife,” a monitoring mission is being conducted from April 2 to April 6.

E.T. Sansyzbayev (Head of the Ichthyology Laboratory) and R. Igilik (Acting Researcher), in collaboration with officers from the Alakol District Fisheries Inspection, are currently monitoring the gonad development of major commercial fish species within the Alakol lake system.

The objectives of this study are:

  • Spawning Readiness: To determine the physiological readiness of fish for the spawning season.

  • Regulatory Adjustment: To provide a scientific basis for potentially shifting the dates of the seasonal fishing ban. Due to fluctuating natural and climatic conditions, the ban period may be moved up to fifteen calendar days in either direction, without changing the total duration of the restricted period, to ensure the effective protection of wildlife during reproduction.

Research Activities on Trout Reproduction in the Kolsay Lakes

Since April 2, 2026, a specialized team from the Fisheries Research and Production Center has been carrying out field research at Lower and Middle Kolsay Lakes. These operations are conducted within the Kolsay Kolderi State National Nature Park, a strictly protected natural area, under the framework of Government Program 021 (Subprogram 100).

The expedition is led by Zh.M. Bakkhozha (Head of Expedition) and includes M.O. Aubakirova (Head of Hydrobiology Lab), along with researchers G.M. Ablaissova, B.S. Pangereyev, D.S. Bekturov, and assistant N.B. Abishev.

Key highlights of the mission:

  • Primary Objective: Assessing the reproductive health and patterns of the trout population in the Kolsay ecosystem.

  • Methodology: The team is currently collecting ichthyological, hydrobiological, and hydrochemical samples. These materials are essential for comprehensive biological analysis, including age determination, size-to-weight ratios, sex identification, maturity stages, and fecundity studies.

  • Context: Located in the Kegen District of the Almaty Region, these lakes have been a site of continuous monitoring by the Center since 2017.

This ongoing research provides vital data for the sustainable management of the park’s unique aquatic biodiversity.

Maximum Subsidy Rates for the Purchase of Stocking Material in Aquaculture

In accordance with the Rules for Subsidizing the Increase in Productivity and Quality of Aquaculture Products, as well as the Development of Breeding Fish Farming, approved by Order No. 412 of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated November 1, 2025, maximum allowable subsidy amounts have been established for the purchase of young fish (juveniles) for various aquaculture species.

According to the Rules, the maximum subsidy amounts per unit of juveniles are as follows:

Salmonids and their hybrids (excluding the whitefish subfamily):

  • Fertilized eggs – 7 (seven) KZT per egg;
  • Fingerlings (underyearlings) – 40 (forty) KZT per specimen.

Whitefish (Coregonids) and their hybrids:

  • Larvae – 950,000 (nine hundred fifty thousand) KZT per 1 million units.

Sturgeons and their hybrids:

  • Fertilized eggs – 15 (fifteen) KZT per egg;
  • Fingerlings (underyearlings) – 180 (one hundred eighty) KZT per specimen.

Cyprinids (Carp family) and their hybrids:

  • Larvae – 250,000 (two hundred fifty thousand) KZT per 1 million units;
  • Fingerlings (underyearlings) – 50 (fifty) KZT per specimen;
  • Yearlings – 80 (eighty) KZT per specimen.

Catfish and their hybrids:

  • Fingerlings (underyearlings) – 9 (nine) KZT per specimen.

Crustaceans:

  • Fertilized eggs – 5 (five) KZT per egg;
  • Fingerlings (underyearlings) – 25 (twenty-five) KZT per specimen.

The implementation of these state support measures is aimed at ensuring the sustainable development of the industry, increasing production volumes, and improving the quality of aquaculture products within the country.

Congratulations on receiving academic title!

The staff of the LLP “Fisheries Research and Production Center” sincerely congratulates Artur Nasibullauly Tumenov, Director of the West Kazakhstan Branch, on being awarded the academic title of Associate Professor in the field of “Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries”!

This well-deserved achievement confirms your high professionalism, years of dedication, and immense contribution to the development of science and education. Since 2019, Artur Nasibullauly has led the West Kazakhstan branch, bringing 19 years of scientific expertise to the role. He has published 46 articles in journals indexed by Web of Science and Scopus, authored 6 monographs, 1 teaching manual, and holds 8 innovative patents. In 2023, he was awarded the “For Irreproachable Service in Fisheries” badge by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources.

In his professional capacity, Artur Nasibullauly conducts large-scale work on implementing projects for the conservation and reproduction of fish resources, aquaculture development, and the integration of modern technologies into production.

Your leadership, dedication, and professional versatility serve as an inspiration to colleagues and young scientists alike! We wish you strong health, prosperity, and endless new scientific discoveries!

Scientific and Coordination Council on Approving R&D Programs for 2024–2026 at the Fisheries Science and Production Center

From March 26 to 27, 2026, the LLP “Fisheries Research and Production Center” is hosting a meeting of the Scientific and Coordination Council at its main division in Almaty. The meeting is dedicated to the review and approval of work programs for Research and Development (R&D) under the scientific and technical frameworks for 2024–2026. The session is being held in a hybrid format, bringing together participants both in the hall and via online platforms.

The meeting is attended by representatives of the Fisheries Committee of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as key partners and co-executing organizations, including:

  • S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University (NCJSC);

  • Kazakh Research Veterinary Institute (LLP);

  • Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology (Institution);

  • Scientific and Production Center for Microbiology and Virology (LLP);

  • System Research Company “Factor” (LLP).

The Agenda includes:

  • Review of work programs on the topic: “Development and implementation of innovative, cost-effective technologies and new aquaculture species adapted to the natural and climatic conditions of various regions of Kazakhstan.”

    • Program Leader: Dr. Biol. Sci., Professor, Academician of the NAAN RK, S.Z. Asylbekova.

  • Review of work programs on the topic: “Comprehensive studies of water bodies for the conservation and sustainable use of biological resources based on potential assessment and stock dynamics modeling.”

    • Program Leader: Dr. Biol. Sci., Professor, Academician of the NAAN RK, K.B. Isbekov.

  • Other matters: (Review of the Collective Agreement, report on the implementation of the scientific publication plan, etc.)

Upon the conclusion of the council meetings, all work programs will be submitted to the General Director of LLP “FishRPC” for final approval.

State Recognition: Assylbekova Saule Zhangirovna Awarded the Order of “Kurmet”

Saule Zhangirovna Asylbekova has been honored with a state award of the Republic of Kazakhstan — the Order of Kurmet . This prestigious award was presented for her significant contribution to the development of national science, fisheries, and aquaculture, as well as for her many years of fruitful scientific and public service.

Saule Zhangirovna is the first and, to date, the only scientist in Kazakhstan to hold a Doctor of Biological Sciences degree specifically in “Fisheries and Aquaculture.” This distinction makes her scientific biography truly unique within the nation’s fishery science.

For many years, the scientific and practical activities of Assylbekova S.Zh. have been inextricably linked to solving strategically important industry tasks: the conservation and reproduction of fish resources, the development of a science-based aquaculture system, and the implementation of modern technologies into production practice. Under her scientific leadership, major target-oriented programs are being implemented that are of key importance for the sustainable development of aquaculture in Kazakhstan. Additionally, she successfully manages grant projects and initiatives focused on the commercialization of scientific research results.

As a dedicated mentor, Saule Zhangirovna serves as the scientific advisor for more than ten PhD doctoral and Master’s students, making a significant contribution to the training of the next generation of scientists. She is the author and co-author of over 400 scientific papers, eight monographs and textbooks, and holds more than 70 patents of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the field of fisheries and aquaculture. Her scientific developments are widely applied in research, education, and industrial operations.

The awarding of the Order of Kurmet is a well-deserved recognition of her years of hard work, outstanding scientific achievements, and her impact on the development of the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in Kazakhstan. The scientific career of Assylbekova Saule Zhangirovna stands as a shining example of professional leadership, devotion to science, and service to the national interests of the country.

On the Retirement of Lyudmila Ivanovna Sharapova

The staff of the LLP “FishRPC” expresses its sincere appreciation and congratulates Lyudmila Ivanovna Sharapova on her retirement—a significant milestone that marks the culmination of her many years of professional service.

Lyudmila Ivanovna has dedicated many years to advancing scientific research, building a strong professional team, and strengthening the academic school in the field of hydrobiology. Under her leadership, highly qualified specialists were trained who continue to work successfully today, upholding established traditions and honorably representing national science.

She has made a significant contribution to the implementation of grant projects, the results of which are reflected in methodological manuals actively used in both practical and scientific activities. This confirms the high applied value of her research and its demand within the professional community.

Her professionalism, integrity, dedication, and attentive attitude toward colleagues and students have earned Lyudmila Ivanovna profound respect and gratitude.

The team at LLP “FishRPC” expresses its gratitude for her many years of conscientious work and substantial contribution to the development of the industry. We wish her strong health, well-being, peace of mind, and many joyful new events in her life.

Maximum Subsidy Rates for Aquaculture Feed Approved

In accordance with the Rules for Subsidizing the Increase in Productivity and Quality of Aquaculture Products, as well as the Development of Breeding Fish Farming (approved by Order No. 412 of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, dated November 1, 2025), the maximum allowable subsidy amounts for aquaculture feed have been established.

According to the Rules, the maximum subsidy amount per 1 kilogram of feed is as follows:

-Salmonids and their hybrids — up to 330 tenge;

-Sturgeons and their hybrids — up to 330 tenge;

-Cyprinids (Carp family) and their hybrids:

  • Granulated feed — up to 105 tenge;
  • Extruded feed — up to 250 tenge;

-Catfish and their hybrids — up to 210 tenge;

-Cichlids and their hybrids — up to 210 tenge;

-Latidae (Lates perches) and their hybrids — up to 210 tenge;

-Arowanas and their hybrids — up to 285 tenge;

-Crustaceans — up to 228 tenge.

 

These adopted standards are aimed at reducing the costs for fish farms, encouraging the use of modern specialized feeds, and increasing the competitiveness of domestic aquaculture products.

The implementation of these state support measures will ensure the sustainable development of the industry, increase production volumes, and improve the overall quality of products.

 

 

Seminar on “Modern Methods of Hydrochemical Research”

On February 26, 2026, staff members of the Hydroanalytical Laboratory at the main division of the Fisheries Science and Production Center (FSPC) organized an open house day for 2nd and 3rd-year students of the Kazakh National Agrarian Research University. A scientific and informational seminar was held offline for the participants on the topic: “Modern Methods of Hydrochemical Research.”

Seminar Organizers:

  • Dolgopolova S.Yu. – Head of the Hydroanalytical Laboratory;
  • Mukatai A.A. – Research Fellow;
  • Bekturov D.S. – Research Fellow.

The goal of the seminar was to introduce the scientific activities of our center and demonstrate the theoretical and practical research methods used in the hydroanalytical laboratory.

Key topics of the seminar included:

  • Methods for conducting hydrochemical research in both field and laboratory settings;
  • A practical session featuring laboratory analysis using titrimetric and spectrophotometric methods.

Following the seminar, participants engaged in a Q&A session and a discussion. The students gained basic skills in hydrochemical laboratory research and expressed strong interest in further collaboration.