The Research Institute for Fisheries and Aquaculture (Hungarian acronym is HAKI) is a governmental organisation that has been established in 1953 at Szarvas. The institute was upgraded in the frame of an FAO/UNDP programme between 1975 and 1980, and became an internationally acknowledged research and training centre.

The institute is implementing a multidisciplinary research work, to provide scientific basis for the development of various fish culture technologies, and for the proper use and protection of the aquatic environment. The three major fields of research are: aquaculture, aquatic ecology; and fish biology. The research work is carried out in the frame of specific projects such as: fish genetics and gene bank maintenance; management and restoration of aquatic ecosystems; structure and function of integrated aquaculture systems; fish feeding and feed technologies; fish biomonitoring and environmental friendly prevention; fisheries management of natural waters; and the development of water saving fish production systems.

The scientific work is closely related to the development of sustainable fish production systems, and aquatic ecosystem management. The scientists of the institute are actively involved in various aquaculture and fisheries development programmes in the frame of national and international projects through consultancies, extension services, and training, but the institute also provides laboratory services, and high value fish seed for these projects.

HAKI is an important contributor to the development of the Hungarian aquaculture sector through the implementation of applied research work under national and European research programs (e.g. Sustainaqua, Aquamax, Arraina, Aquaexcel, Aquaredpot) and also through transfer of results to the practice through extension work, conferences, expert consultations and training programs.

HAKI’s main research philosophy is to link science to practical application, thus research programmes are focusing on new challenges that aquaculture and fisheries are faced with recently like: the scarcity of water (the increasing competition among water users); the better use of water resources and the protection of the environment; the development of human nutrition; the improvement of food security; the protection of gene reserves; and fostering of professional traditions.

MEASURES Project: HAKI offers its expertise in conducting genetic analysis of sturgeons of Danube origin

The project „Managing and restoring aquatic EcologicAl corridors for migratory fiSh species in the danUbe RivEr baSin” (MEASURES) suits and expands the goals of HAKI as it aims for creating ex-situ live gene banks and restoring wild populations of migratory fish species. HAKI offers its expertise in conducting genetic analysis of sturgeons of Danube origin. During the propagation and restocking events of MEASURES, HAKI can rely on its experience, especially working with sterlet, as it is a well known species in the gene bank of the institute. The goals of the project are in line with those of the institute as the sustainable and long-term conservation of migratory fish species are important tasks from both economical and cultural aspects.

"Research, development, training and consultative assistance for responsible utilisation and protection of water resources, improvement of human nutrition and life quality."