More information
Description
Recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs) have been developed for land-based production of sea- and freshwater species. These systems are designed to provide high biomass production while reducing resource usage and maximizing control of operational parameters. Optimizing control and management of water treatment in RAS is of paramount importance. OPTIRAS will contribute to improve technology and protocols for land-based farming of sole and Atlantic cod significantly, with respect to productivity, animal health, production conditions, environmental benefits and sustainability. In particular, OPTIRAS aims at contributing to more sustainable growth in the aquaculture sector by developing innovative sensor technologies for operationally critical water quality parameters, and thus, generating new jobs related to a blue economy growth in Portugal. As a summary, OPTIRAS research will support businesses with a research, development and innovation component, strengthening RAS competitiveness in the market. This project aims at increased value creation including long-term marine and maritime economic growth, social cohesion and marine environmental protection. The main objectives of OPTIRAS are: Investigate the changes in water chemical parameters, microbiome and physiology of fish in RAS induced by different water treatment processes as well as microorganisms balance in the different steps of water cycle; Develop and deploy online monitoring systems for water chemical parameters relevant for the control of the water quality and the ozone demand; Test the adequacy and impact of alternative water treatment processes on fish welfare status and water quality; Demonstrate a novel water quality control system developed in RAS pilots and improved cultivation protocols for diverse fish farming stages and specie; Transference of know-how and technologies in RAS between Norwegian and Portuguese companies in order to increase the sector competences, innovation and sustainability