Get to know

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

France is significantly involved in the aquaculture sector in a myriad of ways, mainly due to its large seafront, diversified production, quality breeding, skills and expertise. Consumption of aquaculture products amounts to an average of 34 kg per person per year. In terms of exports, salmon, oyster and trout amount to €344M in sales revenues. Further, production, in 2016, is mainly focused on shellfish, salmon, trout, carp, sea bass, sea bream and other fish amounting to €825M in sales revenues. For Pays de la Loire, that would be €59M. 

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

Currently, no FIEs or DIHs that are active in aquaculture have been identified in our region. However, there are many research institutes and innovative projects active in this field.

For example, there’s the AQUAGRINERGIE 2 project: it follows the AQUAGRINERGIE project which helped to recognise the technical and commercial interest of an innovative model of recirculated water in aquaculture farming coupled with the recovery of fatal industrial or agricultural heat. The aim of the 2nd stage is to prepare and promote the implementation of one or more pilot projects. This is done through in-depth research of regional sites of interest, design of aquaculture operating models, stock of public and private funding and identification of project leaders for these pilots.

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

Environmental hazards such as water quality degradation, toxic phytoplankton blooms and ocean acidification. But also animal health and welfare, predation, the social acceptance of the projects, environmental monitoring, and the transmission of companies and their investment capacities.

Why do you think that aquaculture is such an important and relevant sector?

There are several reasons to assert this. The most relevant one is that the aquaculture sector holds the potential to overcome many of the major challenges our society will face, particularly those regarding the future of healthy and sustainably produced food. As a matter of fact, fish and shellfish farming is one of the food sectors that has grown the most rapidly in the last decades, already providing about half of all the fish we consume.

Could you give us an overview of aquaculture in Regional Cluster Italy & Malta?

Aquaculture in Italy is based on a long tradition, history and culture. It is characterized by a high level of specialisation and large-scale production. Out of about thirty raised species, the production is dominated by Mediterranean mussel, clam (Italy is one of the major producers of clam in Europe) and rainbow trout. European sea bass and gilthead sea bream are the major marine farmed finfish species.  

Aquaculture production in Italy has been mainly developed in coastal lagoons of the High-Adriatic Sea (Emilia Romagna, Veneto, Friuli Venezia Giulia), where around 80% of the national production is concentrated. Emilia-Romagna is the first region for shellfish production (around 45% of the total national production). Mussel and clam national productions are about 70 000 and 30 000 tons/year and Emilia Romagna region covers, respectively, 34% and 53% of these productions. The aquaculture sector is composed of many small enterprises with five or fewer employees. Total employment in the sector encompasses about 5 000 people, with a 3 000-person full-time equivalent, highlighting the importance of seasonal work in this field. 

Aquaculture in Malta is almost completely marine-based. It consists of the capture-based aquaculture of Atlantic bluefin tuna, European sea bass and gilthead sea bream, with a small production of meagre. Aquaculture of seabass, seabream and meagre takes place in floating cages, approximately one kilometre offshore. In the case of Bluefin tuna, an aquaculture zone 6 km off the southeastern coast is utilized by 5 farms to fatten up the captured tuna. In 2015, Maltese production of European seabass and gilthead seabream was more than 2 300 tonnes whilst the Atlantic bluefin tuna production was over 8 000 tonnes. 

What are the environmental issues associated with traditional aquaculture?

The most relevant, potential environmental impacts of traditional aquaculture come from the introduction of non-indigenous species, nutrients, organic matter, and contaminants including pesticides and litter. Effects on the environment depend on characteristics of different aquaculture plants, such as their hydrological conditions and production methods. The potential disturbance factors include contamination, and nutrient and organic matter enrichment, which can have an impact on eutrophication, but also hydrographic conditions, fish and seafood contaminants, marine litter. In addition, non-indigenous species and pathogens can have an impact on biodiversity and the food chain.

What issues are there in aquaculture that can be addressed by digitalization?

Aquaculture production has shown fragility towards environmental variables (algal blooms), anoxia and extreme weather events. Due to climate change, it is expected that in the nearby future these factors will become even more critical. Real-time monitoring of environmental conditions will help in preventing production disasters. In addition, plant automation could improve the velocity of restoring optimal conditions.

If there would be one thing that everyone should know about aquaculture, what should it be?

Aquaculture-based fish and shellfish production represents a sustainable source of animal protein, able to provide important ingredients and nutraceutical compounds in the Mediterranean diet.

What are the main demands that your FIE is trying to respond to?

The strong global competition in seafood markets reduces market prices of aquaculture products, with the consequent decline in profits. The FIE goes in the direction of introducing new solutions to improve the competitiveness of aquaculture production through the introduction of practical, easy-to-use tools to preserve the quality of the production process and products.

Could you share with us some current opinions that you’ve received from the FIE’s other members (e.g. DIHs) regarding FIE 24’s work?

SMEs participating in this FIE can be divided into two categories: those directly involved in the aquaculture business (Nordi, Naturedulis and Bellini) and a spin-off company, DNAphone, whose business is in digital technologies. We have received different opinions from them. We would say that from the SMEs involved in aquaculture production the common feeling is based on enthusiasm for our work, particularly regarding the ecosystem. They also say they expect in the near future that many other producers will be interested in these activities and technologies. DNAphone told us that this work is very stimulating. They see a huge opportunity to enlarge their business through these activities. Finally, as for the DIHs, especially at the beginning of the activities (before the project started), they were extremely supportive in helping us to set up connections with SMEs. We received opinion and advice on how to approach these companies. Currently, they are continuously supporting us in any kind of issues, including solving bureaucratic questions, moving through project documentation and maintaining connections with other SmartAgriHhubs Work Packages. Their opinion on our practical activities, so far, is positive. 

What are the goals that FIE 24 is trying to achieve?

The main goal of FIE 24 is to produce new tools (remotely controlled sensor network) to facilitate and improve the control and handling of aquaculture operations. This tool is designed, on the one hand, to alert farmers (on their smartphones) when productive environmental conditions start to deviate from their optimal values and, on the other, to facilitate actions to solve these issues through a series of actions, such as for example the possibility of electronically activating restoration machinery (e.g. air pump).

What future do you see for aquaculture in the digital world?  

Digitalization will contribute to the growing of aquaculture activities in two aspects: (i) by guarantying the production level through the minimisation of losses due to catastrophic events; and (ii) by facilitating the management of the production through the possibility of using larger areas of sea and lagoons for aquaculture activities.

Contact info

Alberto Cavazzini

alberto.cavazzini@unife.it

Aquaculture is a fast growing sector worldwide and plays an important role in providing food for the growing world population. Various farming systems from ponds to net cages to closed systems produce fish, mussels, crustacea and algae on all continents.  

But what about aquaculture in Germany? 

Birgit Schmidt-Puckhaber from the German Agricultural Society (DLG) answered our questions about this. She is project manager of aquaculture at the DLG and runs a fish farm with her family in the North of Germany. 

Could you give us a brief overview of aquaculture in Germany: Which forms (types of farms) and which kinds of fish are the most common? 

Aquaculture in Germany is dominated by conventional fishponds. These ponds utilize a natural source of water for aquacultural purposes, which requires a special permit. Ponds are bodies of water that can be drained, unlike lakes, which cannot be emptied and re-filled. We distinguish between warm- and coldwater fish culture, depending on the kind of fish that is being reared in these ponds. In warmwater ponds (carp etc.), water is flowing at low rates and has a high temperature. These ponds are primarily used for cyprinidae in conjunction with compatible fish (tench, zander, catfish, etc.). Salmonid fish (Rainbow trout, brown trout, etc), on the other hand, prefer clear, cool, flowing water. As a result, coldwater ponds tend to be longer, have a higher flow rate, and are filled with clear, cold water. Both types of ponds use naturally occurring water for breeding fish, and the water is returned to nature (i.e., a creek or river) after passing through the pond. Unlike in conventional ponds, the water used in so-called RAS systems (Recirculated aquaculture Systems) is purified in special filters for re-use. As a result, these systems require only a fraction of the water used in conventional ponds. However, these systems require heat and electrical power for rearing fish and water purification and bear a higher technical risk. They are used for catfish, sturgeon, and eels, as well as for prawns in salt water systems.  

In 2018, the number of farms that relied primarily on producing fish in aquacultures was approximately 2 600, with most farms operating warmwater ponds (1 700), followed by coldwater farms (1 060), and only 45 RAS Systems (Recirculated Aquaculture Systems). 

How does aquaculture in Germany compare to the rest of Europe and the world? 

We can be proud of our fish farmers and the traditional pond farms, but we only play a minor role in European and international markets. In 2018, German aquaculture produced 31 900 tons of fish, mussels, shrimps and algae, but could not even come close to meeting the national demand for fish and seafood. We rely heavily on imports when it comes to fish – Germany imports 87 % of the demand of fish and seafood. The production of carp and trout in Germany has not increased in years; only the yield from RAS systems is steadily growing. 

Is there a typical “German” fish that has a rich tradition of being farmed in this country? 

Yes, there is. Even if we cannot shine with large yields, fish farming is an important part of German culture, and especially carp farming has a long-standing tradition here. It contributes to the typical landscape of several regions and forms a mainstay of our culinary tradition. Anyone who ever tried a tasty Franconian baked carp will never forget this experience. The main areas of production are in Saxony and Bavaria. 

Where do you see future opportunities? How about, for instance, “German shrimp”? 

I believe that the most lucrative opportunities arise wherever there is something special about the product, some kind of story. This can be a certain sign of quality, a special way of producing or selling the fish, or a beautiful place where buying fish is a special experience. 

Fresh prawns from Germany are such an experience. Everybody knows frozen prawns, and consumers love using them for all sorts of recipes. But fresh prawns from a well-run salt water prawn farm are an entirely different - and delicious - product; a real treat for the senses. However, I would argue that this model can only be successful if it stays limited to a small number of farms, so that the price of around €50 per kilo can be maintained. 

Germany imports approximately 80 % of its fish and seafood. Which growth opportunities do you see in the German market, for instance when it comes to meeting the national demand for fish and seafood? 

Regional production is promising. I can once again point to the challenging task of convincing restaurants and consumers in your own back yard with your very own products, and getting local grocery stores involved. German fish farmers will not succeed by trying to ramp it up and offering their products at global market prices. Apart from the traditional farming systems we see various start - ups – combining the production of aquatic organism with plants, so called Aquaponic systems. These systems are very innovative and can be installed everywhere, also in the middle of the City. I guess, these “urban farming systems” will grow and can bring people in the cities back to primary production,  

What is your favourite fish to eat and how do you prepare it? 

A fresh perch fillet from lake Selent in Schleswig-Holstein, just blanchéd in butter and served with roasted almond slivers - that’s our absolute favourite. 

How would you describe your project?

The project aims to produce and use the zooplankton biomass as food for the growth in the post-embryo development stage of some valuable fish species, such as sturgeons, zander and European catfish that are the object of intensive farming in Romania. The purpose of the project is to produce the stocking material necessary for the development of aquaculture farms.

What is the problem that you target, and what solution do you offer?

All fish species feed on the early stages of development with live food (algae and zooplankton). The problem encountered, at farm level, is the fact that insufficient quantities of live food are produced. As a solution there is the possibility of creating two production systems of live food, at industrial level, in a controlled environment, in the required quantities and during the desired period. 

How many aquaculture farms do you work with and what do they mostly need help with?

S.C.D.P. Nucet produces stocking material of different ages for about 80% of the aquaculture farms in the country.  Within the institution there is a counselling centre that ensures the technological transfer and assistance for the implementation of new technologies and methods. These two activities ensure permanent connection with the farmers. 

What have been one or two of your most successful cases?

A successful project was the introduction of North-American sturgeon - Polyodon spathula - in aquaculture from Romania. Within S.C.D.P. Nucet was elaborated the growth technologies in different systems that allow to obtain sturgeon meat and caviar in fish farms. Also, within the station was developed artificial reproduction technology that allows producers to obtain stocking material for aquaculture farms in Romania and neighboring countries. 

Currently, S.C.D.P. Nucet is also creating a collection of species and breeds of freshwater fish (genotheque), which comprises about 30 genetic entities, represented by about 90 lots of different ages, being unique in the country. 

According to you, what are three factors aquaculture farms should start implementing as soon as possible?

1. Farms should implement modern technologies to increase the productivity and quality of production from aquaculture farms.  
2. Farms should implement monitoring programs to reduce pathological risks in aquaculture, reducing losses and ensuring animal health and welfare. 
3. Farms should diversify their production by introducing species of high economic value. 

What are the key challenges aquaculture farms encounter when it comes to improving their sustainability, animal welfare and public health standards?

 Upgrading of existing farms and construction of new production capacities.

Adapting the supply to the demand, both in terms of quality and quantity, to increase the benefits brought by aquaculture products to consumers, as well as the producers incomes.

The necessity of connecting Romanian producers to quality regulations / norms / standards imposed by the applicable national and European legislation in terms of the post-harvest phases ( labeling, transport, marketing, hygiene, etc.). Especially relevant are the technological phases of production (regulations regarding the good state of fish stocks, environmental protection and biodiversity).

The need for specialisation of the personnel from the fish farms and the attraction of young people in the fisheries sector.

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

According to FAO, Italy is the 4th EU country in terms of volume of production. There are more than 800 aquaculture plants producing about 140 tons of fresh fish, with a contribution of 40% of the overall Italian fish produce and about 30% of the demand of fresh produce. Italian aquaculture is characterized by a good integration among the subjects of the supply chain and by a high-quality, highly nutritional, organic, and safe produce. Although aquaculture in Italy includes the rearing of 30 species of fish, mollusks and crustaceans, 97% of national production is based on 5 species: trout for freshwater fish, sea bass and sea bream for marine fish and mollusks such as mussels and clams (tuna, sea bream, and amberjack in Malta). However, as for the overall European aquaculture, the Italian one is not producing enough to satisfy the demand of fish for consumption. Indeed, 80% of Italy’s fish originates from imports.  

Thus, even if Italy exports some fish product, consumption is much higher than production. This means that there is a potential space for an increase of the latter limited, however, by various problems affecting the sector (eg spatial planning and difficulty in investing in new businesses).  

Beside fish production, the cultivation of algae (seaweed) also is a key sector of Italian aquaculture. Algae are used to produce both foodstuffs and raw material for other products (like for example, spirulina, used to produce feed, cosmetics, and pharmaceutics). 

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

Coldiretti, co-leader of the Regional Cluster, being a farmers’ association, provides several supporting services also to aquaculture farmers. These go from the administrative support to request permits, state property concessions, requests of contribution from funding authorities, labour insurance, accountability, and legal advices; to training and informative services, promotion activities both within the network of farmers’ market named Campagna Amica (managed by Coldiretti itself) and fairs, and building relationship with researchers to develop innovative solution based on the real need of farmers. 

This last translates in the involvement in the FIE on aquaculture, as stakeholders, aquaculture farmers associated with Coldiretti and also the local federation of Coldiretti (Coldiretti is a national association of farmers organized in local branches spread in all Italian territory who provides direct services to farmers). 

The Agrifood Clust-ER’s thematic priorities have a specific focus on aquaculture, for precision farming techniques, improvement of processing, storing, distribution phases, production of machineries and processing plants. Also, the valorization of biomass from marine and aquaculture activities represents a priority.  For all these issues, the Clust-ER, in its role of regional DIH, supports the interaction among the regional stakeholders, the preparation of sound projects with robust public-private partnerships, and also facilitating the entry of regional actors (including small ones) into international strategic partnerships.  SmartAgriHubs is a practical example of support provided by the Clust-ER to the aquaculture regional farms and research bodies, allowing their entry into this key EU partnership. The importance of aquaculture in the regional Smart Specialization Strategy has been also recently confirmed, with a specific focus on the aquaculture system, working also on the identification of training needs and innovative professional skills for the development of the related productions. 

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

Fisheries in the Mediterranean area are over exploited thus aquaculture is the only way to supply for the fishing demand reducing environmental damages. This means that aquaculture production should be reinforced. 

The crucial aspect is that to reach this objective, aquaculture should triple its production over the period 2012-2030 and this requires lots of investments, more research to find solutions to reduce production cost and increase disease resistance, and improvements in bureaucracy to facilitate the installment of new plants. 

One of the main issues is the reduction of costs related to feeding, a big challenge of the sector. Feeding items account for about 50-60% of production costs, but are also a key aspect of fish quality, and environmental sustainability.  Other areas of development are the definition of new solutions to detect and treat fish diseases, the diversification of the farmed species, and the introduction of innovation to meet specific and diversified consumers’ needs. 

With reference to the latter, the production of high-valuable and certified species is a key development area that could increase the role of the Italian producer in international markets, promoting synergies with other sectors, such as tourism and gastronomy, both drivers of the Italian economy.  

Also in aquaculture, research should be fostered to produce new materials, to replace plastic, used mainly in mussels farming, and to boost the adoption of low impact technics like closed-loop systems, or aquaponics (that links fishing and vegetables production) or the Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (that is the simultaneous farming of multiple aquaculture species on different levels of the food chain, with complementary ecosystem functions, in a way that allows uneaten feed, waste, and by-products of one species to be utilized as fertilizers, feed, and energy for the others, and to take advantage of synergistic interactions among the species). 

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

Since our Regional Cluster consists solely of landlocked countries, they are not leading the field of aquaculture. Still, efforts are made to push innovation in this sector. There are not just a few entrepreneurs and farmers who try to diversify their businesses through new technologies, products and services.

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

We do not have any FIEs/DIHs directly involved in this field.

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

We see that there are many activities, for example in aquaponics, where even cities can become notable places for smart food production. The SmartAgriHubs consortium as well as its Regional Clusters, like ours, are working very hard to identify and connect new innovative actors and ideas all over Europe.

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

Spain is the number one aquaculture producer in the EU-28, responsible for 23% of the total volume produced in 2015 (Eurostat). The production is dominated by mollusks which account for 80% of the total output - mainly mussels, produced in the Galician region (Noth-West Spain). The aquaculture sub sector is very relevant for Galicia, where traditional extensive mollusk production provides jobs for families (and remarkably a high share of women) in rural coastline areas. Additionally, there has been an increase in marine fish production due to the establishment of several production plants throughout the last decades.

Another important region is Andalusia (particularly Cadiz):

Andalusia accounts for 20% of the production of marine aquaculture in Spain.

Marine aquaculture account for 22% of the total production value and around 11% of the fishing and aquaculture sectors’ direct employment.

The value of production amounts to €70M.

Production is expected to increase by 44% (to 14,000 tons) in 2020. - 95 companies and 160 authorized establishments (138 on land and 22 at sea) are active in the sector.

In comparison, aquaculture in Portugal plays a much more discrete role. Nevertheless, “esteiro” fish production plays an important role in littoral regions, mainly on old salt producing areas. Lack of infrastructure (mainly ports) diminishes the marine fish production potential of the country’s vast coastal area.

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

The Andalucía Agrotech Digital Innovation Hub provides support for new developments and integration/connection between needs of aquaculture companies and new technological services that are being generated in the sector. There is a Competence Center within this DIH with strong focus on aquaculture, called CTAQUA (Aquaculture technological Center of Andalusia). In addition, the Research Center of the Regional Ministry of Agriculture (IFAPA) also hasa line of R&D on aquaculture. The other DIH in aquaculture is DATAlife (Gradiant is one of its promoting CCs).

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

The development and uptake of data analytics and artificial intelligence specifically tailored to a wide range of use cases within the aquaculture sub sector. Other developments include sea water mapping, the application of new techniques to extend shelf life, and new products that are innovative, sustainable and easy to consume (e.g. seaweed for animal feed).

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

In Latvia, aquaculture is a significant part of the fisheries' industry, but is comparatively new. Regardless, it plays a noticeable role in regional development. Currently, aquaculture is linked only with the freshwater sources and there are no aquaculture farms in the marine coastal areas, though recently the interest in marine aquaculture has increased. In 2017, the aquaculture sector produced 808 tons of fish, with a market value of €2.2million, with a focus on carp, trout, catfish and sturgeon. In 2017, the value of exports was €206 million, €40 million more than imports.

In Estonia, aquaculture production reached 870 tones in 2017. All aquaculture production in Estonia is derived from freshwater using ponds, flow-through systems, and recirculation aquaculture systems (RAS).  Rainbow trout is the most cultured species (81%). Other farmed species include Arctic char, European eel, African sharp tooth catfish, common carp, Wels catfish, grass carp and sturgeon (both Siberian and Russian).  The latter are mainly used for caviar production. Only 5% of the aquaculture production is exported. Exports totalled approximately €146 million and a little over 100 000 tones, of which 39% and 59% respectively is exported to EU countries. In 2017, imports totalled €129 million and 40 000 tones.

In Lithuania, the aquaculture sector produced around 3 740 tons of fish in 2017. The total value of aquaculture production in 2017 was €12.1 million. The most farmed species is carp (78%), with smaller quantities of rainbow trout, sturgeon, African catfish, and European eel.

In Poland, the fisheries sector represents a minor part of the Polish gross domestic product (GDP). Nevertheless, it plays an important role in some regions and has an influence on diversification of economic activities in local communities. In 2017, the fishery sector produced 3 065 tones, the main species being carp, perch, roach and bream. On the other hand, Poland imported 553 308 tones of fish and seafood in 2017, being one of the biggest salmon importers in the world.

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

There are currently no FIEs/DIHs active in aquaculture in our region.

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

The role of the aquaculture sector is increasing in the all countries in our Cluster. All 4 countries aim to increase production, increase effectiveness and energy efficiency, add value to the products, expand the export markets etc. 

In Latvia the main aim for aquaculture is increasing production and value added of the aquatic products. 

In Estonia, aquaculture has a little more influence on the economy through tourism, because put-and-take ponds are an attractive part of leisure time activities. Adding value through processing and increasing the quality of products (filleting, salting, marinating, smoking, vacuum and gas packaging) can help to broaden the market and raise profitability. The introduction of new species (crayfish, eel, sturgeons, catfish, charr, pike-perch) may expand marketing possibilities. 

In Lithuania the aquaculture sector aims to increase energy efficiency and renewable energy use in pond aquaculture and to encourage the use of closed recirculation systems. Farming of species that can open new markets and fetch higher prices, while preserving traditional extensive aquaculture and organic production, is also a priority. 

In Poland, the sustainable exploitation of stocks, increased sector profitability, and sustained employment are key challenges. Accordingly, the goal is to increase the sector's competitiveness through more effective utilisation of resources, raw materials, waste, and discards, as well as to support the market by building a distribution chain and improving the quality of products. 

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

As we discuss in the interview on aquaculture in Germany, our region is focusing on pigs, poultry, dairy, and arable challenges.

Unfortunately, aquaculture isn’t at the top of our agenda. However, given the current challenges related to European fish consumption and stock depletion, it is not impossible that this will change.

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

At the moment, we have no FIEs and DIHs in our region in the SAH project involved in aquaculture. Nevertheless, in Germany, we stay in contact with representatives of the aquaculture sector, and we are looking for support.

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

The importance of aquaculture is increasing to feed the growing global population. However, public awareness around the issues surrounding aquaculture does not seem to grow. We are keen to get the European aquaculture sector on board in the SmartAgriHubs project.

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

Aquaculture is a growing business in Scandinavian countries.  It plays a variable role in our economies. In Norway, aquaculture is -  together with the oil industry – a cornerstone of the economy and plays a big role in certain locations such as the Faroe Islands. In other countries, aquaculture is important in remote rural areas. 

In Denmark, aquaculture is a long-established practice. It accounts for more than 1,000 Danish jobs in total and an export revenue of €150M.  

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

The DIH provided by Luke DIS focuses on offering actors in aquaculture  intermediating services for project development, strategic RDI, contract research, provision of technical infrastructure, and testing and validation of new solutions. 

In Denmark, the national organisation Danish Aquaculture operates an IT-management platform that assists the individual aquaculture owner with the administrative work and acts as a platform for trade. (Developed by DIH SEGES) 

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

Eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems and its relation to licensing of aquaculture farms, freshwater aquaculture, recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), genetics and biotechnology in aquaculture as well as added-value aquatic products and non-food uses are key research and development themes in the region. 

For example, the Denmark, consumers are becoming more environmentally and climate conscious in their food choices. This places ever greater demands on the Danish food sector, which is among the world's most climate-friendly and innovative. 

What role does aquaculture play in your region?

In general Greece has a productive sector in aquaculture (110.000 tonnes in 2015). Culture of Mediterranean mussels has an annual production capacity up to 35–40.000 tonnes in 2015. Over the past few years, the marine aquaculture sector has been restructured, with the aim of doubling its production by 2030.  It is important to highlight that Marine fish is the top Greek exported animal product and contributes about 11% of the total national agricultural exports (which together account for 19% of the total Greek exports).

Do you have FIEs/DIHs on aquaculture in your region? How do you help them?

Unfortunately, our region has no FIE or DIH active in the Aquaculture sector. We are however directing our efforts at expending our network to include the aquaculture sector in this project.

What are currently the most important developments in aquaculture, according to you?

Freshwater species and extensive lagoon aquaculture have a limited growth potential mainly because of the lack of natural resource availability (water, wild stocks).

Early detection and species identification of plankton infestations which can produce toxins that are harmful to fish and shellfish. Similarly, sea lice infestations can cause massive harvest losses.

Disease prevention (e.g. pancreatic cancer) through the implementation of technologies to efficiently manage key related environmental variables such as temperature and O2 levels

The Aquaculture context can be merciless with many harsh environmental factors to consider. Economic viability for aquaculture producers is threatened by many external factors which need to be anticipated and proactively managed to whatever degree possible. The use of increasingly sophisticated monitoring tools and farm management platforms to optimise key variables that include feeding, water quality and health management with the aim of right sizing and maximising harvests.

Integrated multi-trophic approach to aquaculture which utilises species that do not have direct commercial value to the benefit of the sector as a whole. For example, lump fish, farmed at Bantry Marine Research Centre, eat lice directly from salmon, offering a non-harmful way of treating these infestations.