Aquaculture veteran Thierry Chopin passed away

Professor Thierry Chopin, renowned UNB Professor and Pioneer in the Field of Aquaculture, passed away on 18 July. Professor Chopin was a pioneering force in the field of aquaculture, renowned for his groundbreaking work on Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). Throughout his distinguished career, Professor Chopin made significant contributions to the sustainable development of aquaculture. His innovative research in IMTA, which involves the cultivation of multiple, complementary species such as salmon, mussels, and seaweed, transformed traditional aquaculture practices. This approach not only enhanced environmental sustainability but also improved economic viability by creating balanced ecosystems that mimic natural interactions.

Dr Chopin was the past president of the Aquaculture Association of Canada, the International Seaweed Association and the Psychological Society of America. His laboratory, the Seaweed and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), carried out valuable research into creating a balanced approach to aquaculture for environmental sustainability, economic stability and societal acceptability. In 2018, Dr Chopin was awarded the prestigious distinction of Chevalier in the Ordre du Mérite Maritime of France for his marine biology and aquaculture research. 

Born in France and after obtaining his Doctorate in biological sciences from the University of Western Brittany, Dr Chopin eventually moved to Canada in 1989 where he became a professor of marine biology at the University of New Brunswick in Saint John. Dr Chopin taught at UNB for 35 years, inspiring countless numbers of his students to pursue success in their scientific careers. 

His wife wrote in a LinkedIn post, “I do not hesitate to write that I believe the world has lost a brilliant mind and scientist”.

His wife writes: “I pray that those of you who shared his passion for our world, particularly the ocean, will remember the moments the two of you shared with a smile, a laugh and perhaps also an appreciation for the depths of some of your discussions. Share the knowledge with the younger generation…whether they be your students, children or grandchildren…and perhaps think of him, because the dissemination of knowledge for the future was one of his many goals”. 

Dr Chopin’s family kindly welcome any donations to the Thierry Chopin Award for Graduate Coastal studies, to honour and continue his legacy and further the studies of the next generation of scholars at UNB. You can donate at: www.unb.ca/chopinaward 

The Aquaculturists

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Laxey successfully completes €6 million Equity Private Placement

July 29, 2024 - Laxey has announced the successful completion of a €6 million Equity Private Placement, to initiate construction of its second section of 4500 tonnes HOF land-based salmon production. The round was driven by strong interest following closing of the €40 million private placement in April 2024. The round included investments by Farvatn Private Equity and Kontrari, two Norwegian family offices and experienced seafood investors, who invested alongside existing investors and employees.

First batches are thriving in the hatchery and construction is progressing according to plan

The company's development is well underway. The hatchery has been operational since November 2023 and the first two batches are performing well. The facility will be fully commissioned in July with a total capacity of four million 100g smolt per year. Progress remains on schedule for the grow-out site, utilising a hybrid-flow-through technology, benefiting from the favourable local conditions with respect to biosecurity and building cost. The first grow-out tanks were erected late June, and the facility will be ready for smolt insert during fall 2024.

Additional capital raised to commence construction of section 2

Until early 2024, the company has been predominantly funded by the local Óskarsson family. With the completion of the €40 million Private Placement in April 2024 and €6 million now in July Laxey has secured a strong shareholder base combining strategic and financial strength to take the company forward.

"Continued demand from prominent investors reflects the quality and hard work in Laxey. Along with the commencement of construction for Section 2, we believe these investors bring experience and additional competence to our project" says Lárus Ásgeirsson, chairman of the board of Laxey. "Now it is up to us to deliver on construction and farming. It is truly exciting to watch the daily progress of the project and with the first grow-out tanks being erected a few weeks ago we are on good track to deliver the project on time"

Arctic Securities acted as Sole Global Coordinator and Bookrunner in the private placement, with Mar Advisors acting as Financial Advisor to Laxey.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Hello Fish: introducing ReelVision

July 26, 2024 - After a teaser released last week, ReelData have announced ReelVision, a camera developed from the ground up for AI applications in aquaculture, such as behavioural analysis, feeding rates, fish health and welfare. ReelVision is up to the task of working with any AI model, in any farming environment, for any type of analysis.

Product overview

ReelData have been building AI, Software and Hardware for the aquaculture industry for five years. Anyone with time in aquaculture has had the headaches of equipment failures, inconsistent products and stuff simply not working. ReelData has also experienced these challenges. They found the cameras in the market unreliable and unacceptable, so they set out to build their own cameras.

ReelVision distinguishes itself from standard industry cameras with its robust design, which ensues zero hardware failures and allows scalability without overwhelming farm infrastructure. The camera can operate efficiently as both an advanced AI camera and as a standard IP camera, providing flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Key features

• Zero hardware failures: Handles the harshest underwater environments, as well as the harshest farmers handling equipment.
• Scalability: Supports a high number of cameras per farm without causing any technical bottlenecks on your farm.
• Measuring the smallest pellets at the highest accuracies: ReelVision's optics allow AI to detect the smallest objects. Currently detecting two millimetre pellets in smolt facilities.
• Standard IP camera or AI camera: Functions effectively as either a sophisticated AI camera or a basic IP camera. This lets farmers get ready to adopt future AI solutions by using ReelVision as their first choice for scalable IP camera solutions.
• Performance efficiency: Maintains 99 percent server uptime, minimising disruptions and maximising productivity.

After using ReelVision for over a year now, it has shown a significant improved accuracy in pellet detection. Clients have noted its reliability with fewer operational disruptions and the reduced need for maintenance like rerunning cables or replacing hardware.

There has been limited innovation in standard IP cameras in the aquaculture industry, ReelData's AI-first camera system represents a significant advancement. As the aquaculture industry increasingly integrates AI, ReelVision is set to become an essential tool, enabling farmers to concentrate on producing healthy, sustainable protein without the operational headaches we've resolved over the past five years.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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WorldFish and Malaysian Government collaborate to enhance aquaculture

July 26, 2024 - In a significant step towards boosting Malaysia's aquaculture sector, WorldFish handed over 20,000 Genetically Improved Farming Tilapia (GIFT) fingerlings to Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup at the WorldFish campus in Penang.

The handover was officiated by WorldFish Director General, Essam Yassin Mohammed, who presented the fingerlings to the Deputy Minister. This initiative highlights WorldFish and Malaysia's commitment to sustainable management and development of the fisheries sector, aligning with discussions at the 21st International Institute of Fisheries Economics and Trade (IIFET) Conference currently being held in Penang.

This is the second handover of the latest generation of GIFT to the Malaysian government, with the first occurring in December 2023.

"WorldFish GIFT represents our commitment to scientific innovation in aquaculture. By providing these genetically improved fingerlings, we aim to support Malaysia's efforts in achieving food security and sustainable fisheries. Our collaboration with the Malaysian highlights the importance of cooperation in fostering resilient and productive aquatic food systems," said WorldFish Director General, Essam Yassin Mohammed at the handover.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said, "Our collaboration with WorldFish on the GIFT tilapia project highlights our commitment to enhancing food security. These genetically improved fingerlings will play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for fish, supporting our small-scale farmers, and strengthening the resilience of our food systems."

For nearly 30 years, WorldFish's Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT) project has benefited millions worldwide with its fast-growing tilapia. Launched in 1988, GIFT has shown how a food systems approach can enhance nutrition and livelihoods.

It is estimated that over 50 percent of global tilapia production comes from GIFT and GIFT-derived strains. This strain is crucial for small-scale farmers, providing a sustainable income and a reliable source of nutrition. The GIFT project was developed through a pioneering elective breeding program, making tilapia faster-growing and adaptable to various environments. Today, GIFT is produced in at least 14 countries, contributing significantly to poverty reduction and hunger alleviation.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Boosting the sustainable growth of small-scale aquaculture in the southeastern Mediterranean

July 25, 2024 - Five small-scale aquaculture producers from the southeastern Mediterranean are participating in an innovative capacity development programme organised by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and New Agriculture New Generation, a non-governmental organisation based in Greece.

The programme combines classroom training, field visits and tailor-made coaching sessions. It aims to support the sustainable growth of small-scale aquaculture in the southeastern Mediterranean by providing owners of small-scale farms with business, marketing and entrepreneurial insights. The participants were selected, based on specific sustainability criteria, through an open call launched in Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco and Tunisia.

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"Small-scale aquaculture is an integral part of Mediterranean heritage and contributes significantly to the Mediterranean diet. It is crucial to support and modernise farming tools to ensure the well-being of farmers, aquatic species and the environment," said Houssam Hamza, GFCM Aquaculture Officer.

Programme kick-off

In June, participants attended the first phase of the programme, which kicked off at an event held in Athens, during which Maria Damanaki, Former European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, highlighted the importance of aquaculture for future food security and lauded initiatives that develop capacity and skills for farmers in the region. Representatives from major industry stakeholders, including the Hellenic Aquaculture Producers Association, the Agricultural University of Athens and industry bodies in Greece, along with embassy representatives from Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco and Tunisia, were also present.

During this phase of the programme, participants attended a series of training workshops in Greece on strategy, innovation, sustainability, technological trends, marketing and sales. They learned about various techniques and practices in the region, exchanged ideas and plans and visited modern aquaculture and aquaponic units and research laboratories to gain insights into Greek expertise in the sector.

"Participating in this programme has been a transformative experience, as it provided numerous insights for growth and development," said Massaad Ejbeh, from Lebanon. "The visit to the marine fish farms revealed the significant potential for cultivating red seabream, which opens new avenues for expanding our product range. Back home I am planning to develop a recirculating aquaculture system for red seabream, which will be a significant step forward in enhancing our production efficiently and sustainably."

"After the intensive training on strategic management and marketing management for sustainable aquaculture products, we've learned practices and techniques that will help us improve our project back home," said Abderrazak Kiram from Algeria. "We visited several farms and this will be extremely useful as we are currently planning to expand our cultivation of spirulina and algae, as well as explore how to cover the local market and enter global markets."

Looking to the future

This programme highlights the importance of sustainable small-scale aquaculture in the Mediterranean by focusing on its contribution to the GFCM 2030 Strategy for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, as well as FAO Blue Transformation vision, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In particular, the programme highlights how small-scale aquaculture can help to secure nutritious high-protein foods, diversify livelihoods, generate employment and income, and empower women in the region. In particular, the programme highlights how small-scale aquaculture can help to secure nutritious high-protein foods, diversify livelihoods, generate employment and income, and empower women in the region.

Going forward, participants in the programme will receive tailor-made coaching in their countries on how to best grow their businesses sustainably.

"The biggest gain from this training is the contact with the organising team and other participants," said Housni Chadli from Morocco. "I am sure that the work we started here will continue for a long time, creating profitable synergies for all of us."

The successful implementation of this programme paves the way for the GFCM to replicate such initiatives in other Mediterranean countries.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Inhouse Farming - Feed & Food Show 2024 Aquaculture: Fish, algae and more indoors

July 24, 2024 - This year, the Inhouse-Farming - Feed & Food Show will take place for the first time at the world's leading trade fair EuroTier organised by the DLG German Agricultural Society) in Hanover, Germany. Agricultural professionals can obtain a full overview of all types of self-contained closed systems for food and feed production. In addition to insects, vegetables, herbs and medicinal plants, today's indoor farms also produce aquatic candidates such as fish, crustaceans and aquatic plants in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) systems.

The rapid growth rates of global aquaculture production are impressive. According to FAO 2022, 130.9 million tonnes of fish and seafood were produced in aquaculture, surpassing capture fisheries. Asia is the leading region. The EU countries, and therefore also Germany with traditional pond farming, are stuck in stagnation, limited by restrictions, environmental protection and nature conservation requirements.

Recirculating Aquaculture Systems - RAS

As early as the 1980s, the lack of new water rights for fish production, pollution of natural waters and the desire for manageability led to the development of so-called Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). Fish and other aquatic organisms were now grown and marketed independently of rivers, streams and lakes using filter systems and water treatment with minimal use of fresh water. This is not a simple technological solution. Each fish species has its own farming requirements and specially adapted feed. Some RAS systems soon had to close their doors again, as the recirculation and heating of the water was extremely energy-intensive and the marketing of the fish was not optimal.

The profitability of the recirculation systems improved remarkably once renewable energy was introduced as an energy source and RAS systems had developed further technologically. "Today there are 60 closed 'AQUA inhouse farms' in Germany, which together produce around 3000 tonnes of fish, crustaceans or algae - which is significant," says Dr Birgit Schmidt-Puckhaber, DLG Project Manager Aquaculture.

Aquaculture Theme Day on November 13, 2024

The Inhouse Farming - Feed & Food Show 2024 invites you to learn more about fish, crustaceans, algae and other aquaculture topics. Exhibitors will be showcasing their technologies, from turnkey solutions to specialised feeding and farming equipment. An entire day will be dedicated to this topic on the associated 'Expert Stage'. On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, information on aquaculture will be discussed and exchanged in Hall 24: What is aquaculture and how do I produce pike-perch, sturgeon, sea bass, shrimps and aquatic plants of consistently high quality all year round? What are photobioreactors and what do I need to consider when growing algae? System builders and their producers will provide information about their experiences on the farms and international experts will report on how fish and vegetables thrive together in aquaponics systems.

"The Inhouse Farming - Feed & Food Show 2024 is committed to thinking ahead and rethinking the future," says Dr Schmidt-Puckhaber. The various facets of food and feed production in closed in-house systems enable the creation of new material cycles and the utilisation of nutrient and energy flows, which will be demonstrated and discussed in Hanover. Unused heat from next door and electricity from the roof for prawns is the secret of the 'Hansegarnelen' from Glückstadt, Germany, which Rupert Bauer will present. Algae and insects as feed additives will be discussed, as will nutrient solutions and CO2 binding in algae farms, packaging material from crustacean moults and insect growth on waste materials. "We focus on cooperation," says Gabriel Faysse from 'La Ferme Integral', an aquaponics system from France that produces 60 tonnes of vegetables with nutrients from pike-perch breeding.

During the breaks, 'aquatic snacks' will provide culinary variety: in addition to classic smoked products, there will also be innovative products such as sea bass from Seawater Cubes, ginger shots with spirulina from Puevit and algae beer from Benelux.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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The critical role of biosecurity in modern aquaculture

July 24, 2024 - In today's rapidly evolving aquaculture industry, the importance of biosecurity cannot be overstated. As global demand for seafood continues to rise, aquaculture facilities face increasing pressure to maximise production while maintaining the health and quality of their stock. Biosecurity measures play a crucial role in achieving these goals, protecting both the aquatic animals and the economic viability of the operation. In this article, we'll look at the significance of biosecurity in aquaculture and how modern tools like AQUA Sightline are revolutionising the industry's approach to data management and biosecurity protocols.

The foundation of biosecurity: comprehensive record-keeping

At the heart of effective biosecurity lies meticulous record-keeping. "Good record keeping is essential for all businesses, especially aquaculture production facilities and fish farmers that are looking to grow to meet the demands of the marketplace," said Tony Vaught, the Aquaculture Consultant for AQUA Sightline. "Without accurate and detailed records, farmers lack the crucial information needed to make informed decisions and fail to benefit from the valuable experiences gained during previous production cycles."

Comprehensive data on key production parameters such as growth rates, mortality rates and feeding rates allow for the optimisation of production practices. Often, the true value of specific information only becomes apparent in hindsight, when farmers realise they should have been recording it all along. While it may seem tedious at first, implementing a robust record-keeping system requires minimal time investment once established and proves invaluable to operations and profitability in the long run.

Key areas of focus for biosecurity-oriented record-keeping

1. Population dynamics and mortality tracking

Accurate monitoring of animal populations, sizes and mortality rates is crucial for maintaining optimal rearing conditions and detecting potential health issues. By keeping daily records of mortalities, farmers can adjust biomass calculations and quickly identify the onset of diseases. Some pathogens cause rapid, high mortality rates (acute mortalities), while others result in slower, prolonged losses (chronic mortalities). Detailed mortality records provide invaluable information to veterinarians and aquatic health teams when diagnosing the causes of animal losses.

2. Water quality monitoring

Maintaining optimal water quality is paramount in aquaculture operations. Detailed records of water quality parameters enable the early detection of abnormalities such as temperature fluctuations, suboptimal oxygen levels, increases in ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate concentrations, or drops in alkalinity or pH. By comparing these records with mortality rates, disease outbreaks, and growth data, farmers can identify correlations between water quality issues and production problems, facilitating more effective troubleshooting and prevention strategies.

3. Treatment records and disease management

Maintaining detailed records of predisposing factors (such as handling stress or water quality issues), clinical signs, treatments administered, dosages and subsequent mortality rates is essential in the event of a disease outbreak. This information is critical for effectively managing the current situation and developing strategies to prevent or mitigate similar occurrences in the future.

4. Feed management and biomass calculation

Regular measurement of animal weight and length, combined with accurate population counts, allows for precise calculation of biomass and optimal adjustment of feeding rates. This data is not only crucial for day-to-day management but also proves invaluable when veterinary interventions, such as medicated feeds, become necessary. Moreover, historical data from previous production cycles serves as a powerful tool for optimising future runs, enabling farmers to anticipate and proactively address potential challenges.

Leveraging technology for enhanced biosecurity: the AQUA Sightline advantage

As the aquaculture industry continues to evolve, technology plays an increasingly important role in streamlining biosecurity practices and optimising production. The AQUA Sightline app represents a significant leap forward in this regard, offering a comprehensive, user-friendly solution for modern, data-driven aquaculture management.

AQUA Sightline puts critical data at farmers' fingertips, providing real-time alerts and insights that enable quick, informed decision-making. From projected harvest dates and feed recommendations to water quality analytics, the app offers a holistic view of the aquaculture operation, all accessible from a mobile device.

Key features of AQUA Sightline that enhance biosecurity include:

1. Real-time Water Monitoring: AQUA Sightline tracks essential parameters such as water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, and pH balance, alerting farmers when any metric falls outside optimal ranges.
2. Feed Conversion Ratio Tracking: By monitoring feed intake and growth rates, AQUA Sightline helps optimise feeding strategies, reducing waste and improving overall efficiency.
3. Customisable Alert Thresholds: Farmers can set specific alert thresholds for various parameters, ensuring they're promptly notified of any potential issues before they escalate into serious problems.
4. Data Analytics and Trend Identification: AQUA Sightline's predictive analytical capabilities allow for the identification of long-term trends and patterns in the health of the fish, facilitating proactive management and continuous improvement of biosecurity protocols.
5. Centralised Record-Keeping: By consolidating all critical data in one easily accessible platform, AQUA Sightline simplifies compliance with biosecurity regulations and facilitates more effective communication with veterinarians and other aquatic health professionals.

The economic impact of robust biosecurity measures

Implementing comprehensive biosecurity protocols, supported by advanced tools like AQUA Sightline, can have a significant and positive impact on aquaculture operation's bottom line. By minimising the risk of disease outbreaks, optimising feeding strategies and ensuring optimal water quality, farmers can:

• Reduce mortality rates and associated losses
• Improve feed conversion ratios, lowering production costs
• Enhance growth rates and overall productivity
• Minimise the need for costly treatments and interventions
• Improve product quality and consistency, potentially commanding higher market prices

Moreover, robust biosecurity measures can help aquaculture facilities maintain compliance with increasingly stringent regulatory requirements, avoiding potential fines or shutdowns.

Embracing a biosecurity-first approach

The importance of biosecurity in ensuring sustainable, profitable operations cannot be overstated especially given the growth of the aquaculture industry over the past decade. By prioritising comprehensive record-keeping and leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AQUA Sightline, fish farmers can significantly enhance their biosecurity protocols, optimise production and safeguard their investments.

In the words of Tony Vaught, "Time is money, and this could not be truer in today's aquaculture environment." By embracing a biosecurity-first approach by utilising tools that put critical data at their fingertips, aquaculture professionals can make informed decisions quickly, react to potential issues proactively and ultimately achieve greater success in this dynamic and challenging industry. "As we look to the future of aquaculture, it's clear that those who prioritise biosecurity and leverage data-driven solutions will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market."

Whether you're managing a small-scale operation or overseeing a large commercial facility, investing in robust biosecurity measures and advanced management tools like AQUA Sightline is not just a prudent choice - it's an essential strategy for long-term success in the world of modern aquaculture.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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International drive to standardise sea lice modelling takes shape

July 22, 2024 - A consortium of researchers from Scotland, Norway and the Faroe Islands are working on a new benchmark testing tool that could help to better validate the predictions of the dispersion of the sea lice in water and enhance fish health.

Aerial view of net-cage fishfarm

The project, known as SAVED - Sustainable Aquaculture: Validating Ectoparasite Dispersal (Models) - recently received a funding boost from the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC). The aim is to create a new system to validate the results of existing dispersion models, used by producers, academics and regulatory bodies.

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Project partners include the University of Strathclyde; Mowi Scotland; Scottish Sea Farms; Bakkafrost Scotland; The Scottish Government's Marine Directorate; the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research; Firum, Aquaculture Research Station of the Faroe, The NW Edge, and Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), as an observer.

A variety of dispersal modelling tools are already available to help the sector manage the challenge of sea lice and inform decisions about future aquaculture sites. However, each model works with a different set of underlying assumptions, meaning they tend to return different results. A new, universally accepted tool for cross-comparison between models and data could lead to a more robust, standardised approach to model evaluation, leading to more accurate predictions of potential risk to wild fish populations from sea lice.

The free online tool will be informed by several existing physical and behavioural models, which include elements such as winds and tides, the way sea lice move in the water and how they react to light exposure. Researchers will also combine data from Scotland, Norway and the Faroe Islands to gain a detailed understanding of the uncertainties produced in each nation's results.

With a new standardised approach, academics, producers and regulators using any of the models currently available on the market will be able to use the online benchmark tool to provide an additional level of validation and have assurance that the output is as reliable as possible.

Dr Meadhbh Moriarty, senior aquatic epidemiological modeller for the Scottish Government's Marine Directorate, said: "Different sea lice dispersal models use varying complex mathematical techniques, but it is important to ensure that the same set of input data returns a valid result, no matter which product is used. To reduce the variability, we are creating a bespoke Python script that can be applied to each model and ensure it is fit for purpose.

"Another important aspect is the development of a 'data dictionary' which can help to guarantee that everyone using these models is interpreting the figures in the same way. Having input from so many partners across three of the major salmon-producing nations, each with its own governance system, is a big bonus for the project. We hope that the end result will be adopted by the aquaculture sector at scale, helping to better manage the threat of sea lice."

Heather Jones, CEO of SAIC, added: "In recent years we have seen growing demand for data-driven practices to mitigate fish health concerns, including sea lice modelling. However, valuable insight can only be based on quality data, so the tools must return dependable results that can be interpreted consistently. This project is a fantastic example of international collaboration for the greater good. The benchmark could have significant benefits in terms of helping bring about proportionate regulation and enabling the future growth and development of farming."

Philip Gillibrand, oceanographer and hydrodynamic modeller at Mowi, added: "We hope that this project will provide a tool to make the cross-comparison of different sea lice dispersal models, and their evaluation against observations, as consistent, rigorous, transparent and streamlined as possible."

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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The GFCM’s multifaceted approach to mitigating interactions between fisheries and vulnerable species

July 22, 2024 - The Mediterranean and Black Sea region, despite its susceptibility to climate change and other impacts, remains one of the world's biodiversity hotspots due to high species richness, endemism and the occurrence of rare and vulnerable species, including marine mammals, sea turtles, seabirds and several species of sharks and rays.

Sandbar shark ©Rocco Canella/WWF-Mediterranean

Vulnerable species from these groups play an important ecological role in aquatic ecosystems. Assessing their distribution, abundance and ecological status is crucial to biodiversity conservation, as it helps addressing direct or indirect anthropogenic threats, such as fishing pressure, pollution, habitat degradation, climate change and the introduction of non-indigenous species.

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When it comes to interactions - namely incidental catch and depredation - between fisheries and vulnerable species negative outcomes are seen on both sides. On the one hand, vulnerable species frequently get hooked or entangled in fishing gear and end up as bycatch, injured or even dead. On the other hand, some of these species (eg dolphins, monk seals, sharks) can cause significant economic losses for fishers, removing catch from fishing gear and damaging them.

In recent years, these interactions have received increasing attention, but wide gaps in knowledge on the actual extent of the problem persists. To better understand these occurrences and work towards mitigation solutions, the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) partnered with several organisations and recently launched a Regional plan of action to monitor and mitigate interactions between fisheries and vulnerable species in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea (RPOA-VUL).

This ten-year plan, which directly contributes to the GFCM 2030 Strategy, aims both to reduce incidental catches of vulnerable species and to minimise instances of dolphin depredation.

"Productive fisheries require healthy seas, and ensuring fisheries do not have a significant negative impact on the marine environment is a key aspect of the GFCM's work," said Paolo Carpentieri, Fishery Resources Monitoring Officer. "By shielding vulnerable species from contact with fisheries as far as possible, we can minimise impacts on marine life and sustain healthier seas, as well as help the risers whose livelihoods are affected by these interactions."

In order to facilitate the identification of priorities and effective implementation of management measures, the GFCM supports its member countries in gathering and assessing missing information in a thorough and standardised way. Its guides to Monitoring incidental catch of vulnerable species in Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries and Dolphin depredation in Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries contain protocols for doing so.

Targeted research on vulnerable species

Following the key actions described in the RPOA-VUL, the GFCM launched five pilot projects across all Mediterranean subregions, in collaboration with diverse partners, to reinforce monitoring programmes on bycatch and to identify and test mitigation measures aimed at reducing these interactions.

BirdLife International is working to mitigate the impacts of demersal longlines on seabirds off Spain's Balearic Islands, where shearwater species, including the critically endangered Balearic shearwater, are most at risk.

In Morocco, the Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and contiguous Atlantic are (ACCOBAMS), in partnership with the National Fisheries Research Institute (INRH), has focused on how to reduce the number of sharks and rays incidentally caught in trawl gear, while also studying how to limit dolphin depredation in purse seines.

Elsewhere, ACCOBAMS is working with Marecamp to eliminate dolphin depredation in small-scale fisheries in eastern Sicily, and with Türkiye's Çukurova University to mitigate the incidental catch of sharks, rays, sea turtles and other vulnerable species by trawlers in the north Levant Sea. The latter project includes an assessment of post-release survival rates of sharks and rays.

A fifth project involves a collaboration between WWF-Adria and Croatia's Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries and focuses on reducing captures of sharks and rays in gill nets and combined nets in the northern Adriatic.

"Collaboration is key when addressing vulnerable species bycatch. The pilot project on shark and ray bycatch mitigation will also use conventional tags and work with other researchers who do tagging in the north Adriatic to collect data from animals that move between east and west in the Adriatic," said Simone Niedermueller, Regional Projects Manager of the WWF-Mediterranean Marine Initiative. 

The pilot projects are due to end in 2025, at which point the work plan will expand to incorporate successful measures into future GFCM management plans, as well as consolidate knowledge, and strengthen awareness campaigns and training programmes. 

Mitigating cetacean bycatch in the Black Sea

Meanwhile, in the Black Sea, a related project is underway. CetaByM, in partnership with ACCOBAMS, aims to assess and mitigate cetacean bycatch in turbot gillnet fisheries.

Turbot is one of the most valuable species in the Black Sea, but gillnets, the main gear used in turbot fisheries, pose an issue for harbour porpoises, one of the three dolphin species in the region. This cetacean is unable to detect the turbot nets at a distance, and, as a result, becomes frequently entangled.

"Turbot fisheries bring much-needed revenues to many small-scale fishing communities in the Black Sea," said Hüseyin Özbilgin, BlackSea4Fish Coordinator. "But because mortality levels for harbour porpoise are significant, we have been testing measures to mitigate these incidental catches while ensuring that turbot can be fished sustainably in the long term."

The activities in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea are carried out thanks to the support of countries and multiple donors, such as the European Union, which is the main contributor, the Global Environment Facility, and Spain through a voluntary contribution.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Enhancing Marine Ecosystems through Restorative Offshore Aquaculture: Insights from the University of Plymouth

July 19, 2024 - The Applied Marine Ecosystems Research unit (aMER) at the University of Plymouth, led by Dr Emma Sheehan, is leading efforts to monitor the ecological impact of offshore aquaculture installation in the UK. With the global push towards sustainable development and blue growth, understanding the environmental effects of aquaculture is crucial. Since 2013, aMER has focused on the UK's first large-scale offshore longline mussel farm in Lyme Bay, owned and operated by Offshore Shellfish Ltd, with research efforts aiming to support a sustainable, resource-efficient, evidence-based aquaculture industry going forward.

aMER employs innovative, non-destructive video techniques to monitor the marine environment around aquaculture installations. These include a flying towed underwater video system to capture high quality footage of benthic habitats and species, purpose built PelagiCam units to monitor pelagic marine life in the water column, plus remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and baited remote underwater video systems (BRUVS) to provide further detailed observation of benthic marine ecosystems. These techniques are cost-effective and time-efficient, allowing for comprehensive environmental monitoring without damaging marine habitats. 

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The research at the offshore mussel farm has revealed significant positive environmental impacts including increased biodiversity, as the mussel farm boosts species diversity and restores the seabed under the farm, which has been previously damaged by destructive bottom towed fishing practices. By providing evidence of the environmental benefits, the research can aid in removing roadblocks to the consenting of future aquaculture installations, where applications are often denied in the absence of evidence. The mussel farm has been found to enhance both benthic and pelagic biodiversity, with up to a third increase in fish abundance (including increases in numbers of economically important species such as European seabass, plaice and lobster) and a 50 percent increase in infaunal diversity (Bridger et al. 2024, Mascorda-Cabre et al. 2023, Bridger et al. 2022).

Building on this work, the Defra funded UK Seafood Fund Ropes to Reefs Fisheries Industry Science Partnerships (FISP) project will evaluate the ecosystem services and benefits of offshore mussel farming and assess the restoration of essential fish habitat (EFH), biodiversity and associated healthy fish stocks (biomass). The project will quantify potential spillover effects of the farm and assess how and when fish use the farm habitat by using acoustic telemetry techniques and tagging species such as black bream, grey mullet, thornback ray and lobsters. The project will study fish movements and the connectivity between the farm and the nearby Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA) as well as benefits to surrounding fisheries.

Seabed restoration will be further explored using a multibeam echosounder to map the biogenic reef habitat extent under the farm compared to the surrounding seabed. The mussel farm has already been found to have increased reef habitat by 30 percent since the farm was installed. The project will build on the long-running partnership between the University of Plymouth and Offshore Shellfish Ltd and will utilise the unique before and after control impact (BACI) ten-year dataset - generated through PhD studentships supported by the company - that has been collected through the development of the farm.

Additionally, the project will incorporate aMER's previous study on a nearby scallop farm in Torbay. This research project demonstrated positive environmental impacts including increased biodiversity around the farm site compared to nearby control areas. Ropes to Reefs will also integrate a nearby seaweed farm to demonstrate habitat connectivity between the different aquaculture sites.

The research conducted by the University of Plymouth showcases the potential of low-trophic restorative offshore aquaculture to enhance marine biodiversity and support environmental and economic goals. The long-term monitoring techniques and evidence-based approach aim to support a resilient and sustainable offshore aquaculture industry in the UK, providing a model for global practices. By supporting policy makers and managers, the University of Plymouth aims to ensure that aquaculture contributes positively to food security, conservation and surrounding fisheries.

References:

Bridger D, Attrill MJ, Rees SE, Sheehan EV (2024) The aggregation effect of offshore mussel farming on pelagic fishes. Aquaculture Fish and Fisheries. https://doi.org/10.1002/aff2.165

Bridger D, Attrill MJ, Rees S, Davies B, Mascorda-Cabre L, Sheehan EV (2022) The restoration potential of offshore mussel farming on degraded seabed habitat. Aquaculture, Fish and Fisheries http://doi.org/10.1002/aff2.77

Mascorda-Cabre L, Hosegood P, Attrill MJ, Bridger D, Sheehan EV (2023) Detecting sediment recovery below an offshore longline mussel farm: A macrobenthic Biological Trait Analysis (BTA). Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 195, 2023 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115556

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Centre of Research excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS)

July 19, 2023 - A groundbreaking research centre is being established at the University of Plymouth with the intention of answering some of the most pressing sustainability questions relating to food production.

Fish tanks in Davy Building

Research England recently granted a £5.7 million funding award to the University of Plymouth to set up a Centre of Research excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS). With additional University of Plymouth funding, more than £10 million is being invested to strengthen its position at the global forefront of aquaculture, agriculture and sustainable food production research and innovation. 

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More than £2.7 million will be invested in new laboratories and aquaria (marine and freshwater) centred around high-precision aquaculture, protected and controlled environments, molecular genetics and funding to support monitoring of offshore aquaculture. These expansions will be matched by new lectureships, a minimum of 12 PhD research positions, and support for new and existing undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across a number of subject areas. Among those which will benefit are the MSc Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries programme and a new MSc/MRes Sustainable Food Production systems course which will be delivered by the University starting in September 2025.

CRISPS brings together a vibrant community of transdisciplinary researchers, working towards addressing the challenge of sustainably feeding a global population of 9 billion. Founded upon research excellence in aquaculture, agricultural technology and soil health, and underpinned by investment in cutting-edge facilities, the Centre will create the critical mass required to ensure impactful research and real-world deployment in the UK and beyond.

Using high-precision aquaculture facilities for both marine and freshwater procedures, we are collaborating with a wide range of themes, from aquafeed sustainability to the impact of climate change on natural toxicity risk in aquaculture. In particular, the work from Dr Merrifield's Fish Nutrition and Health Research Group on sustainable raw materials, gut health and functional feed additives has made significant contributions to the development of functional aquafeeds.

"Aquaculture is low-carbon, high protein, food production sector - we must make greater use of our aquatic resources to ensure sustainable food security." says Dr Daniel Merrifield.

"providing sufficient food to feed an expanding human population is one of the major challenges of the 21st century. At the same time, we need to establish ways to reduce carbon emissions and increase sustainability. Through the new CRISPS centre, the University now has the capacity to work with existing and new partners to meet those challenges head-on and deliver real and lasting benefits," Professor Richard Preziosi, Director of CRISPS.

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What is the ripple effect of Apple's approach to innovations on aquatech?

July 17, 2024 - In a world reshaped by technological advancement, Apple has set new standards for ingenuity, ease of use and seamless integration across diverse sectors. Now agriculture is undergoing its own transformation, drawing inspiration from the principles Apple has championed.

Apple's ethos - centering on user-focused design, intuitive functionality, and a smooth user experience - has recalibrated societal expectations for technology. This paradigm is steering the evolution of aquacultural technology (aquatech). From underwater drones for monitoring fish health, sensor-based water quality management systems, to AI-driven feeding strategies, aquatech innovations are poised to make aquafarming more efficient, echoing Apple's ability to make technology indispensable and accessible to all.

Challenges of integrating technology in Aquafarming

Adapting technology to the demanding conditions of aquafarming presents its own set of challenges. These include dealing with sedimentation, fluctuating temperatures, the presence of aquatic pests and electrical inconsistencies like power surges and outages. The farm's complexity often results in aquatech ventures failing and cultivators growing weary of new tools.

As a result, there's a noticeable gap between the potential of emerging technologies and their actual application in aquaculture settings. Even if fish farmers invest, challenges such as ensuring reliable broadband for monitoring and control, safeguarding against data breaches, and extracting actionable insights from copious amounts of data compliance the process and hinder further technological adoption.

Navigation towards a user-focused aquaculture future

Despite these hurdles, the opportunities for growth and innovation in aquaculture are vast. AI-driven predictive analytics for aqua-environment management, blockchain for traceability in the seafood supply chain, and other technological advancements promise a future where fish farms are more productive, sustainable and resilient.

Some of the biggest companies active in the field includes Aquabyte and Deep Trekker who are using underwater robots/drones to monitor nets, feeding and maintain optimal water quality. Indonesian eFishery is the first aquatech company to reach 'unicorn status' being valued at over $1 billion and providing smart feeding systems to more than 200,000 farms in Asia. Umitron (IOT-Data management for deep sea ocean management and feeding systems) and the EU's Seastar project both focus on deep sea digitisation through Underwater Things Technology (UTT). Atarraya wants to offer modular shimp production in a shipping container, Data management is offered also by ecto, Quebec's xpertSea.

Norway's BlueGrove has raised $13 million in a series A in order to support its underwater camera vision, equipment to automate fish feeding. India's Aquaconnect focuses on satellite remote sensing and AI algorithms to help manage aqua farms. The use of AI and big data analytics, allows aquaculture experts to fully understand the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems, fish behaviour, market demands and environmental impacts. Adopting Apple's philosophy of simplicity and user-friendliness could revolutionise aquaculture, enhancing the livelihoods of those involved and, ultimately, contributing to global food security. 

Aquaculture stands to benefit immensely from adopting the user-centric design that has propelled Apple to the forefront of global technology. By tailoring these principles to meet the unique challenges of aquafarming aquatech can not only streamline and enrich aquaculture practices but also makes them more intuitive and accessible to the fish farmers.

For more information, visit HERE. 

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Global aquaculture: challenging conditions begin to improve

July 16, 2024 - According to a recent RaboResearch report, the global aquaculture industry is experiencing positive trends as demand for salmon and shrimp begin to improve in the second half of 2024. Despite ongoing biological challenges in farming these species, the industry is supported by the recovery of Western economies. Feed costs are anticipated to decrease, thanks to a rebound in fish meal supply, providing a silver lining for the sector.

Salmon market: tight supply and hopeful signs for demand ahead

According to Gorjan Nikolik, Senior Global Seafood Specialist for RaboResearch, the salmon market continues to face a tight supply, with prices expected to remain high through the latter half of 2024. Seasonal patterns will influence pricing, but the overall trend suggests that costs will stay above average. Norway and Scotland are poised for a supply recovery, although this remains tentative due to unresolved biological issues. The US and Asia are experiencing depressed demand, which has not allowed prices to offset the high costs resulting from weak biological performance. However, the anticipated reduction in feed costs should offer some relief to producers.

Shrimp industry: tentative recovery with lower feed costs

"In the shrimp sector, there are indications of a turnaround, particularly in Western markets where demand and prices are gradually increasing as inflation eases," says Nikolik. The industry is set to benefit from lower farming costs due to improved fish meal supply. However, the recovery remains fragile, with Chinese import demand expected to decline. The positive supply of growth from Ecuador, India and Vietnam could potentially lead to an oversupply, casting doubt on the possibility of a price recovery in the second half of 2024. The depressed profitability of shrimp farming continues to favour large, sophisticated operations, leading to increased industry consolidation.

Fish meal prices to soften as supply increases

"In the shrimp sector, there are indications of a turnaround, particularly in Western markets where demand and prices are gradually increasing as inflation eases," says Nikolik. The industry is set to benefit from lower farming costs due to improved fish meal supply. However, the recovery remains fragile, with Chinese import demand expected to decline. The positive supply growth from Ecuador, India and Vietnam could potentially lead to an oversupply, casting doubt on the possibility of a price recovery in the second half of 2024. The depressed profitability of shrimp farming continues to favour large, sophisticated operations, leading to increased industry consolidation.

For more information, contact Gorjan Nikolik, gorjan.nikolik@rabobank.com, +31 612 432 463.

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Garware launches ropes for mussel farming

July 16, 2024 - The ropes for the seeds of the chilean mussel - endemic to southern Chile - is the recent development of Garware Technical Fibres. The cultivation of this bivale mollusk for consumption requires the collection of 'seeds' - or larvae settled in the substrate - for subsequent 'sowing' and fattening in hanging plants. 

The shape of the new Garware Technical Fibres ropes allows the mussel to adhere more efficiently; Its polypropylene fibers are highly fibrillated loops, thus offering resistance as a support for the growth of the mussel.

"The shape of our rope allows the mussel to adhere more efficiently; its polypropylene fibres are highly fibrillated loops, thus offering resistance as a support for the growth of the mussel," comments Francisco Serra, Commercial Manager of Garware Technical Fibres Chile.

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This line designed for collecting mytilid seeds is UV stabilised to ensure durability in aquatic environments. It can be provided in different loop sizes, according to customer requirements. It has a diameter of 16mm and the loop has a length of 40-50mm, made in three strands for greater resistance. The length of the coil is continuous, making it easy to handle and store, providing a robust and flexible solution.

Industry relevance

"The cultivation and processing of mussels is a fundamental activity in chilean aquaculture and has significant contributions to the national economy, with exports exceeding 370 million dollars per year. Almost 100 percent of mussel farming in Chile comes from the X Region of Los Lagos and involves various actors that make up an industry with more than 650 growers, of which more than 90 percent are smaller companies," commented Rodrigo Carrasco, Executive Director of Mutilcultores de Chile (AmiChile), a union that brings together the cultivation, processing and export of mussels.

"The synergy between the experience and technical knowledge of Garware Technical Fibers, together with the growing demand for specialised products for aquaculture, make this business expansion a promising strategy both for the company and for the development and strengthening of the mussel farming sector in the region; considering that it is the second most important aquaculture activity in the country, with great economic and gastronomic interest. Furthermore, it reflects Garware's commitment to innovation and support for the development of aquaculture in Chile and other regions where the activity is relevant," concludes Serra.

The mussels require natural banks that generate seeds, which are then captured and subsequently transferred to fattening centres. The collection of mussel larvae is carried out in specific areas, because they are filter-feeding animals that live attached to the substrate, with a spawning period that implies seasonality in their reproduction.

For more information, visit HERE.

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BAADER is part of the first Ras salmon plant in China

July 15, 2024 - There is a strong demand for farmed Atlantic salmon in China. Farming it on land close to cities such as Beijing and Shanghai enables fresher products and reduced carbon footprint and logistic costs.

The Norwegian company Nordic Aqua Partners has brought its expertise to China and launched its Nordic PurAtlantic salmon in the Chinese market. It will be sold in the Chinese market under Nordic's 'Pure Atlantic' brand. 

Nordic Aqua has the first large-scale land-based fish farm in China. The Nordic Aqua facility on Gaotang Island is designed to produce more fish with less waste. BAADER is making a significant contribution with the BAADER 101 for stunning and bleeding the fish and the BAADER 142 for automatic gutting.

The BAADER 101 is a game changer in the salmon processing industry. It ensures animal welfare and superior product quality. Once fish are stunned, they cannot regain consciousness, so they do not suffer. The fish remains unconscious until death.

"We chose BAADER because we care about fish welfare and quality," stated Ragnar Joensen, CEO of Nordic Aqua Partners AS.

"This helps us ensure food safety and quality - that's why we chose BAADER 142 for our gutting process because it's known for perfect gutting results"

BAADER 142 performs a princess cut combined with suction devices and throat cutting tools. It collects and takes in the guts efficiently, leaving the main bone nearly free from bloodstains.

For more information, visit HERE.

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Innovafeed completes the third expansion phase of its Nesle Industrial Site

July 15, 2024 - Innovafeed has announced the completion of the third phase of expansion at its production site in Nesle. This is a crucial step that marks the scaling up of its production capacities, as announced in September 2022, following its record-breaking €250 million series D funding round.

This new expansion brings the total floor area to 55,000m2. As a result, it increases the larval production capacity fivefold and enhances rearing conditions through automated and optimised production flow management. With this expansion, Nesle becomes the largest insect production site in the world.

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This achievement not only demonstrates the viability of Innovafeed's breakthrough technology but also its ability to scale up to large-scale, profitable and sustainable production. Innovafeed thus proves the robustness of its innovative industrial model.

A new industrial phase enabling the mastery of innovative technology and ensuring the growth of volumes

The construction of this latest expansion in Nesle is the result of an industrial development designed in phases to manage and mitigate the risks of its model. The first two phases, inaugurated in 2020 and 2023 respectively, addressed the technological risks inherent in creating a new innovative industrial sector based on living organisms. After ramping up, stabilising the technology, and demonstrating the economic performance of the site during the first two phases, this third phase will enable to reach the target production capacity and profitability.

Innovafeed, a pioneer among industrial startups

Innovafeed is one of the pioneers in the creation of industrial startups in France. This movement within the French Tech sector spans various impact-driven industries such as mobility, energy production and agri-food. It fosters the emergence of new technologies and industrial sectors that contribute to France's industrial sovereignty and the decarbonisation of strategic industries.

The process of emerging industrial startups involves several successive stages: the laboratory stage to confirm technical feasibility, the pilot demonstration stage at a semi-industrial scale, and finally, the 'flagship' demonstration stage at an industrial scale. This last stage is a critical transition phase between design and industrial maturity. Innovafeed's success in Nesle is a strong symbol for the industrial startup ecosystem in France.

A sustainable and efficient model

Through this expansion, Innovafeed also demonstrates the acceleration of the Insect Industry's development and the success of its industrial symbiosis model. this model ensures the production of proteins for animal feed while maintaining a low carbon impact (an 80 percent reduction in CO2 emissions compared to other models without industrial symbiosis) and respecting biodiversity.

This low-carbon food alternative is highly endorsed by agro-industry leaders, including ADM and Cargill, who are among Innovafeed's main customers and investors. Innovafeed has secured over €1 billion in contracts over 10 years, highlighting the trust of its partners.

Commitment to the Future

The completion of this phase strengthens the existing 170 positions by creating 40 new jobs. These jobs include production operators, maintenance technicians, and team coordinators, all from the Hauts-de-France region. Some of these positions have already been filled, and the majority of the remaining positions will be filled through internal mobility, continuing our commitment to developing our teams.

Certified B Corp since 2022, Impact 40 winner since 2024, and listed in the Next 40 for the second consecutive year, Innovafeed aims to contribute to the growth of a new, innovative, and impactful industrial sector on a global scale.

This new expansion marks a major milestone for innovated, consolidating its technological expertise and local socio-economic impact. With this crucial step, Innovafeed demonstrates the innovation, sustainability, and projected profitability of its industrial model, while anticipating industry challenges and reaffirming its commitment to green reindustrialisation in France.

For more information, visit HERE.

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State of Alaska supports Seagriculture USA 2024

July 15, 2024 - DLG Benelux, the organiser of the Seagriculture conferences, has announced that the State of Alaska - Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Division of Investments will support Seagriculture USA 2024 which is set to take place in Ketchikan, Alaska from 11-12 September 2024. This invaluable support from the State of Alaska greatly enhances the conference and is deeply appreciated by the organisers, adding significant prestige and resources to the event.

Seagriculture USA has been at the forefront of seaweed conferences since it successful launch in 2022 in Portland, Maine. This year, with the support of the State of Alaska-Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, Division of Investments, the Alaska Mariculture Cluster, and the Greater Ketchikan Chamber of Commerce, the upcoming edition will provide a platform for knowledge exchange, networking and staying ahead of the dynamic seaweed industry.

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Jim A Andersen, Director of the Division of Investments, Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, State of Alaska, states: "Seaweed farming holds tremendous economic potential for Alaska, with our businesses and research communities at the forefront of making it a significant economic driver. From best practices for farmers and harvesters to innovative applications for seaweed, and efforts to build a global market for seaweed products, the dialogue at Seagriculture USA is impactful and propels the industry forward. Alaska's commitment to economic development through the seaweed industry underscores the importance of attracting partners from overseas to collaborate and invest in our region, fostering growth and sustainability for years to come."

Alaska's seaweed farming industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with the number of farms increasing significantly. The state's extensive coastline and pristine waters provide ideal conditions for seaweed cultivation, making it an important economic driver for coastal communities by providing jobs and new income sources. Alaska is home to a variety of commercially viable seaweed species which are used in food, cosmetics and agricultural products. This makes Alaska the perfect place to bring together seaweed experts and enthusiasts from around the world for extensive knowledge sharing at Seagriculture USA 2024.

"DLG Benelux is honoured to partner with the State of Alaksa - Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, Division of Investments, demonstrating our commitment to fostering collaboration and growth within the seaweed industry," said Kuno Jacobs, Managing Director of DLG Benelux. "Thrilled by the opportunity to further develop Seagriculture USA, this partnership brings people in the seaweed sector together. We deeply appreciate the support of the State of Alaska, which adds significant value to our efforts. The team is looking forward to the collaboration and coming to Ketchikan, anticipation for the event is high."

The theme of this year's Seagriculture USA, Exploring New Frontiers, embodies the spirit of innovation and discovery of the seaweed industry's evolution in the United States. It resonates with the pioneering efforts in cultivating seaweed in Alaska's unique environment. It's an invitation to stakeholders from various sectors to come together, share ideas, and forge new paths, aiming to transform challenges into opportunities. This theme is a beacon for collective action, steering the future of the seaweed industry towards sustainable and economically viable paths.

In addition to the extensive conference program, there will be an accompanying trade show as well as networking events to take place along the conference. Moreover, the organisers have arranged for a series of site visits that will allow delegates to not only learn more about seaweed farming in Alaska but also see the surpassed beauty of the region. All site visits will take place on September 10, 2024. The organisers ask all delegates to take that into account for the planning of their stay in Alaska. The program is being finalised at the moment, but everyone interested can already have a look HERE.

The Seagriculture USA conference is an addition to the European edition of Seagriculture, which has been successfully organised since 2012 and has built up a solid reputation as the leading conference for seaweed farming in Europe. Besides the expansion of the brand to North America, the organisers have also launched an Asia-Pacific edition of the conference which will be held in-person for the first time in Adelaide, Australia from March 18-20, 2025.

For more information, visit HERE.

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Young ambassadors turn out in force to see aquaculture in action

July 5, 2024 - Members of the newly formed Young Aquaculture Society (YAS) turned out in force recently at Scottish Sea Farms' west coast facilities for a deep dive into how farmed salmon are raised.

The day-long visit, the first of its kind since YAS was officially launched by Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar at Aquaculture UK un Aviemore in May, began with a tour of Scottish Sea Farms' Barcaldine Hatchery near Oban where the group learned about the incubation process and how salmon are nurtured from eggs to smolts. 

This was followed by a Q&A session with the company's Head of Sustainability and Development, Anne Anderson, focusing on the synergy between fish health and responsible farming practices. The 19-strong party, made up of young professionals from across the supply chain, research institutes, universities, producers and sector body Salmon Scotland, were then hosted out on nearby farm Charlotte's Bay.

There, under the guidance of long-serving Farm Manager Stephen Woods, the group were shown the camera-monitored feeding systems, fish welfare measures, and technology used to monitor water quality. Completing the salmon lifecycle, the final leg of the inaugural tour took in Scottish Sea Farms' processing and packing facility at South Shian, where Head of Processing Donald Buchanan took the group through the packing facility at South Shian, where Head of Processing Donald Buchanan took the group through the company's high-welfare approach to humane harvesting.

Andrew Richardson, Founder and President of YAS and Technical and Standards Manager for Salmon Scotland, said the visit offered a valuable insight into the salmon farming sector. "Because YAS is open to all working in and around the UK's aquaculture ecosystem, many of our members have not been on a salmon farm before.

"So, we value any opportunities like this for education, professional development and networking. Scottish Sea Farms, one of the country's leading producers, has been very supportive of these values and this milestone visit has embodied them all."

Scottish Sea Farms Head of Freshwater Rory Conn agreed that a first-hand view was the best way to learn more about the sector. 

"To really understand salmon farming, nothing beats talking to the people who care for the fish daily, and witnessing their level of knowledge, experience, skill and passion.

"At Barcaldine, we have RAS technology at the cutting edge of aquaculture development and the team always take immense pride in sharing their work here with visitors.

"We want to give people the opportunity to form their own opinions about what they're seeing, so the more questions they ask and the more inquisitive they are, the better use of time it is for us. In fact, we like the visits that run over time because it means that everyone is really engaged, as today's group was."

As for what the young ambassadors took from the day, University of Glasgow PhD Researcher Will Barr, who's working to understand gill associated microbiomes and their role within gill disease in Atlantic salmon, said: "This is something I've wanted to do for a long time, so the YAS visit presented the perfect opportunity. It was done so well on the day, with insights into each key area."

Postdoctoral research fellow Thomas Clark, who studies genomics and immunology in aquaculture at The Roslin Institute, added: "It's really helpful to see the animals in real-life, rather than simply working with clear tubes in a laboratory setting."

For more information, visit HERE.

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Positive trend in 2024 fishmeal and fish oil production

July 5, 2024 - The first 2024 anchovy season in Peru's north-central fishing zone ended in June with more than 98 percent of the quota fulfilled. The marine ingredients industry sees this as a very positive sign for the fishing and feed sectors, considering that Peru accounts for around one-fifth of global fishmeal supply in an average year. A second fishing season will take place later in the year, based on independently set quotas taking into account the size of the biomass.

In Peru's southern fishing zone, the season ended with slightly more than 10 percent of the first season's quota landed. A new quota has been announced for the second season, genning on July 1, 2024.

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In the first five months of 2024, cumulative fishmeal production in the countries analysed in IFFO's report increased by 40 percent compared to the same period in 2023. The significant year-on-year increase of the Peruvian supply was the main factor behind such a positive trend.

When it comes to fish oil, cumulative output through May 2024 was approximately 10.8 percent higher year-over-year, again driven by the increased supply from Peru. All other regions analysed in this report showed a decline in their supplies of fish oil in comparison to the first months of the year 2023.

These dates are based on statistics shared by IFFO's membership, which accounts for 55 percent of global marine ingredients production.

China's challenging conditions for feed ingredients

A nationwide fishing ban running from May to mid-September is preventing the usage of wild captures for the production of fishmeal and fish oil, while the use of frozen fish is currently minimal due to the high prices of the raw material.

Cumulative imports of marine ingredients are decreasing, confirming the challenging conditions prevailing in both the pig and aquaculture markets.

Aquafeed production in the first half of the year 2024 remains below the amount reported during the same period in 2023. Despite some recent improvements in the farm-gate prices for certain farmed species, the reduced aquaculture activity in the first five months of 2024 might further weaken the demand for feed ingredients in the next quarter when most of these species will enter the grow-out phase. 

For more information, visit HERE.

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Join ASC's free webinar: seafood through a consumer lens

July 1, 2024 - Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) is inviting all seafood lovers, retailers, partners and interested parties to attend their free webinar 'Seafood through a consumer lens' on July 16. ASC is offering two sessions at 9am CET and 4pm CET.

How have consumers' seafood buying habits changed? What do they care about most when making a choice from supermarket shelves? Which information sources do they trust the most when it comes to sustainable seafood? All these questions and more will be answered in the webinar, which is based on ASC's consumer survey findings in partnership with The Conversation Studio.

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This is ASC's largest and most comprehensive consumer research to date, interviewing more than 15,000 consumers across 14 countries in North America, Asia and Europe about their perception and consumption of seafood.

A sneak peek to some of the most important findings in the survey include:

• 87 percent of consumers acknowledge that including fish/seafood in their shopping is important
• 83 percent of consumers are motivated to choose seafood with a sustainability label
• 80 percent of consumers have some knowledge of the differences between wild-caught and farmed fish

In the webinar, Willem de Bruijn, Senior Director of Markets & Marketing at ASC, will focus on:

• Seafood buying habits and considerations
• Sustainability considerations when shopping for seafood
• Understanding, attitudes and behaviour towards farmed and wild seafood
• Recognition and trust of certification schemes when shopping for food
• ... and more!

"The results from this survey reveal some interesting insights into how consumers shop for seafood and what informs their buying choices," De Bruijn said.

"Do not miss this opportunity to learn about seafood shopper awareness across different markets and how seafood certification labels, such as the ASC label, are perceived by the surveyed consumers"

ASC tracks global and regional progressions of seafood shopper awareness, attitudes, trust and activation relating to responsibly farmed seafood and the ASC certification and labelling programme.

The research completed most recently is the newest in a series of biennial, multi-market, quantitative studies. The fieldwork for this latest research was conducted between November to December 2023 via online consumer panels by the independent market research agency, The Conversation Studio.

To register for session 1, visit HERE. 

To register for session 2, visit HERE.

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