Advancing the Science of Nutrition 

For decades, Zeigler Bros., Inc. has been a global leader in aquaculture nutrition, advancing feed technology through rigorous research and industry collaboration. That commitment is embodied in the Zeigler Aquaculture Research Center (ZARC)—the core of Zeigler’s shrimp R&D program. 

Located at Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, Florida, ZARC is a purpose-built research facility dedicated to developing high-performance feeds for every stage of shrimp production. Together with Zeigler’s advanced feed manufacturing research laboratory in Pennsylvania, ZARC forms an integrated innovation pipeline that transforms scientific discovery into commercial solutions. 

Advanced Feed Manufacturing Research 

Zeigler’s feed R&D laboratory supports pilot-scale manufacturing using extrusion, cold pelletization, flaking, and proprietary microencapsulation technologies. Comprehensive analytical testing—including pellet stability, nutrient leaching, buoyancy, particle-size distribution, shelf life, and packaging performance—ensures every formulation meets strict quality and performance standards. Rapid ingredient evaluation is supported by Near-Infrared Reflectance (NIR) spectroscopy, enabling efficient scale-up to commercial production. 

Controlled Animal Trial Systems 

ZARC operates a wide range of controlled shrimp trial systems supporting larval, nursery, and grow-out research. Advanced filtration, recirculation, and environmental control systems provide stable water quality and low-stress conditions. Standardized operating procedures and adjustable system parameters allow accurate simulation of commercial production environments and ensure reliable, repeatable results. 

Data-Driven Applied Science 

Each culture tank functions as an independent experimental unit, providing high statistical power and precise treatment comparisons. Highly trained staff collect detailed biological and system data, which are processed through centralized data platforms and feeding algorithms—ensuring scientific rigor and actionable outcomes.  

Precision Nutrition & Feed Formulation 

ZARC integrates nutritional science with particle engineering to develop feeds optimized for digestibility, stability, and feed conversion across all shrimp life stages. 

Functional Ingredients & Shrimp Health 

Zeigler pioneered nutritional immunology, incorporating immune-modulating compounds, probiotics, enzymes, and antioxidants into shrimp diets. Vpak (Vitality Pak)—included in all Zeigler shrimp feeds—enhances stress tolerance, survival, and disease resistance. ZARC research has also demonstrated that microencapsulated probiotic delivery can significantly improve resistance to AHPND. 

Liquid Diet & Manufacturing Innovation 

ZARC played a key role in advancing Zeigler’s EZ Artemia liquid diets. Improvements in microencapsulation technology led to the EZ Artemia Ultra line, offering superior nutrient delivery, enhanced buoyancy, and reduced water fouling compared to frozen Artemia. 

Precision Feeding Program (PFP) 

ZARC’s extensive research data enabled the development of Zeigler’s Precision Feeding Program (PFP)—a data-driven feeding system that aligns feed rate and particle size with shrimp biology. PFP improves feed efficiency, stabilizes water quality, and enhances growth and survival while reducing waste.  

Collaboration & Contract Research 

ZARC supports Zeigler’s global customers through technical expertise, commercial validation trials, and collaboration with international partners. The center also offers contract research services, providing ingredient suppliers, technology developers, and academic institutions access to controlled systems, professional trial execution, and high-quality, unbiased data.  

Advancing the Future of Shrimp Aquaculture 

ZARC is a powerful engine of innovation—uniting science, technology, and practical application to advance shrimp nutrition worldwide. Through precision research and continuous improvement, Zeigler delivers feed solutions that support stronger performance, improved sustainability, and long-term success for shrimp hatcheries and farms.