A number of other aquatic species are raised on Florida farms. The production of crawfish, freshwater shrimp, eels and other minor aquatics during 1997 was valued at $12.1 million from 24 producers. This value is up from $4.15 million in 1995. Much of this growth was driven by global demand for post larval marine shrimp sold to stock shrimp farms in Central America and South America. Within the last two years, Florida-based marine shrimp hatcheries and nurseries have successfully implemented new production technology to increase the volume and quality of shrimp seed. In addition, cultured coral and live rock have gained greater market recognition and acceptance among marine aquarists, and rearing techniques for several marine ornamental fish and invertebrate species have contributed to sales growth in this category. Pioneering Florida aquaculturists are also culturing a number of other aquatic organisms including brine shrimp, pompano and softshell turtles.