RAS comes with a unique set of challenges, and a wholistic approach is needed to ensure problem free and profitable production. Great opportunities lie in development of new technical tools, digital applications and use of artificial intelligence and machine learning . In addition, large amount of data gathered from RC systems around the world give whole new possibilities for monitoring and predictions . BUT,
there is a long way from data gathering to predictive models and improved methods that can be applied at the farmers . In this presentation we will dig more into some of the solutions that are on its way.
A main requirement for successful operation is consistent water quality . Many parameters play in, but high and consistent feed quality is a vital part . This means that feed producers must implement a whole new approach to physical quality and develop monitoring systems that ensures that excellent pellet quality can be guaranteed for every batch. This, together with feed formulations optimized for the specific farm conditions can mean a big difference to the biomass capacity and the farmers profitability. Dust and fat seepage must be kept to a minimum, digestibility of the pellet needs to be high and nutrient composition must be precise in order to minimize economic waste and build up of nutrients in the circulating water. Mass balance calculation and efficient waste handling is also farm specific and can be optimized through the feed and controlled through good digital models. This is why feed for RC systems need to be different and developed together with the users to meet each systems specific needs.
A good feed will only reach it’s potential if the operation is running smoothly, and it is recommended to have a monitoring program for both fish health and pigmentation. A range of rapid methods are being developed to allow faster diagnostics and early correction, to minimize the impact on harvest quality. If needed, feed composition can be altered to fit the changing needs of the fish accommodating the different growth conditions. Again, this requires a strong collaboration between the farmers that knows the system and the fish, and the scientist and feed production specialists in the feed producing companies.
The consumer market is also developing, creating opportunities for farmers to differentiate their product. Within the space of novel ingredients and reduced footprint, many see an opportunity to improve the sustainability of their farming and meeting local and global ESG requirements. As the largest CO2 footprint in fish production comes from the feed, there is another incentive for the farmers and the producers to work closely to develop solutions in accordance with the farmers strategy and local governance. There is room for niche products, supply chain collaboration and footprint reduction that will benefit the whole aquaculture market. The f eed producers need good and dedicated partners so we together can achieve progress.