| Summary: |
This project aims to develop strategies and water treatment technology for removal of particulate organic matter (POM) in landbased
closed containment recirculation systems for aquaculture (LBCCRAS).
This will increase efficiency by reducing waste
products, offflavour
compounds and carrying capacity of bacteria. Removal of POM is the key to improve the production and
product quality of fish produced in LBCCRAS.
Organic matter is the determining factor of the amount of heterotrophic bacteria
that can be sustained in the LBCCRAS.
Nitrification efficiency of the biofilter
is affected by the competition for space and
oxygen with heterotrophic bacteria. In addition, high amounts of organic matter reduces the efficiency of both UV and ozone
disinfection. Heterotrophic bacterial degradation affect the consumption of O2 ,the production of CO2 and ammonia, contribute
to water colour and bacteria producing offflavour
compounds, eventually reducing the value of fish and caviar. The effects of
high, intermediate and low removal efficiency of organic matter on the effects on dCO2, bacteria and offflavour
prevalence will
be investigated. Both tank dynamics and water treatment in the RAS loop will be used to obtain high removal efficiency. Multiple
drains with optimized geometry and hydraulics will be designed for early particles collection and to be used as a strategy in
combination with techniques such as advanced membrane filtration. The effectiveness of a membrane is dependent on several
ambient conditions and fouling is a challenge for membrane performance. We will aim to adapt the membrane technology,
optimize the operation and maintenance in a LBCCRAS.
A close collaboration with fishproducing
companies safeguard that the
project is applicable for commercial aquaculture. |