Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) has emerged as a sustainable and adaptable aquaculture model that mimics natural ecosystems by integrating species from different trophic levels. This approach allows wastes produced by higher-trophic-level species (e.g., finfish or shrimp) to be absorbed and utilized by lower-trophic-level species (e.g., urchins, bivalves, urchins, sea cucumber and macroalgae), creating a closed-loop system that enhances overall productivity and environmental sustainability. Ongoing research, under the "Smart Multitrophic Integrated Aquaculture/Aquaponics Systems: beyond food production" project, focuses on improving system design and introducing novel species specifically low trophic species, to optimize the efficiency and sustainability of IMTA and support environmental, economic and social sustainability.
One key area of research investigates how environmental factors, feeding regimes, and nutrient management can optimize the physiological performance of fed aquaculture species in Integrated Multi-trophic Aquaculture Systems. Efforts to genetically improve aquaculture species using the selective breeding aim to increase feed efficiency, growth, and resilience, supporting sustainable production. Research into offshore systems explores integrating seaweed to enhance nutrient recycling and promote future IMTA expansion. Another important focus is using Biofloc technology, alternative protein sources, such as insect larvae and microalgae, eco-friendly functional ingredients and biorefinery approach to reduce the environmental effects, reliance on fishmeal, enhance mucosal health in farmed aquaculture species and make IMTA systems more ecologically viable. Additionally, assessing the impact of climate change and water scarcity on aquaculture and agriculture, along with identifying ways to adapt and maintain productivity in challenging environmental conditions, and ensuring social acceptability and economic diversification, are major focus areas of the project. This oral presentation intends to highlight these research efforts and present preliminary results while also identifying new pathways for research to advance IMTA in Morocco.
Keywords— Integrated aquaculture, sustainable aquaculture, IMTAS, nutrition, low trophic aquaculture, food security, circular economy.