Main EATFISH outcomes linked to specific objectives are summarized below.
Objective 1: Optimizing resource economy.
Here EATFISH explored ways to make aquaculture more efficient and environmentally friendly. Research found that the type of feed ingredients given to fish, such as European seabass, significantly affects the waste produced. Using sustainable alternatives requires careful management to ensure waste is properly removed from recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Another study showed that adding specific nutrients like taurine and butyrate to fish meal-free diets can improve the growth and health of gilthead seabream, supporting more sustainable feeding practices.
Objective 2: Ensuring animal health and welfare.
This objective focuses on protecting the health of farmed aquatic animals. Researchers studied selective breeding in species like Atlantic salmon and mussels to increase disease resistance, though this is a complex and challenging process. They also identified new microbial biomarkers on the skin of fish that can indicate early signs of stress or disease. Additionally, a new probiotic was discovered that significantly reduced mortality in oyster larvae. Finally, a novel immersion-based technology was developed to produce sterile Atlantic salmon eggs, a method that could prevent farmed fish from interbreeding with and harming wild salmon populations.
Selective Breeding: Research on Atlantic salmon and mussels showed that breeding for disease resistance has great potential. However, the complexity of environmental factors and the need for very large sample sizes make progress challenging. A new method using mega-analysis was shown to increase detection power for disease resistance traits in salmon compared to single-population studies.
Objective 3: Develop novel aquaculture products targeted to specific market segments
EATFISH research focused on the development of new aquaculture products, examining both the economic side of innovation and consumer perceptions.
1. Economic Assessment of Innovations
Economic viability of new technologies, such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and integrated multitrophic aquaculture was analyzed, noting that long-term profitability for RAS is higher for larger farms. It also highlights the potential of new species in Europe, such as tilapia, sea urchins, and kelp, for market diversification and value creation. A survey among stakeholders identified key success factors in aquaculture innovation linked sustainability, collaboration, and effective risk management. The survey also highlighted persistent challenges like disease outbreaks, high costs, and market volatility, with many respondents calling for stronger government support.
2. Consumer Perception of Innovations:
A review of consumer perceptions found that different stakeholder groups have varied views on aquaculture, ranging from very positive to very negative. Environmental and ecological risks were seen as particularly negative by civil society groups, while economic benefits were viewed positively by the industry. A growing demand is expected for sustainable and organic aquaculture products in Europe. Case studies in Norway, Greece, Portugal, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy showcase how these countries are meeting this demand. In China, the demand for imported, high-value aquatic foods is driven by perceptions of quality, health, and food safety. Sustainability is a secondary concern for traders, highlighting a gap between market practices and policy goals.
Objective 4: Refine aquaculture governance to facilitate sustainable development of the sector
EATFISH focused on three main governance aspects related to aquaculture:
1. Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP)
It was found that while MSP aims to reduce conflicts and promote integrated governance, its effectiveness varies across Europe. Countries that actively zone and allocate sites for aquaculture within their MSP policies have higher production levels, suggesting that without intentional planning, MSP may not significantly expand the industry.
2. Monetary Valuation of Ecosystems
A model was developed to quantify ecosystem services provided by pond aquaculture, such as nutrient regulation and provisioning. These outcomes can serve as foundation for programs for the protection and sustainable management of these systems.
3. Sustainability Assessment
A number of challenges was identified to prevent effective translation of sustainability principles into actionable measures. Most effective measures identified were related to
setting clear quantitative targets and mandating regular sustainability reporting to improve transparency and accountability.
The potential for exploitation of EATFISH results has been systematically analysed through the generation of a business map of EATFISH valorisation potential. All ESRs and main supervisors were interviewed to create business model frameworks for their research. Currently, obtaining a “road to innovation” grant from WU has been secured to (1) expand data for our current invention to strengthen the claim of probiotic activity of a newly isolated strain.
Dissemination and Communication was mainly done through social media. To generate engaging content, ESRs recorded video interviews with one another and their supervisors, which were then edited and posted at regular intervals. They also used images and text to highlight secondments, showcasing the collaboration and exchange within the project. EATFISH teamed up with its sister projects, EASYTRAIN and RASOPTA to organize a symposium. This strategic decision was made to increase visibility and provide better networking opportunities for the ESRs by engaging directly with industry professionals.
The communication strategy was designed to reach different target audiences. For the scientific community, dissemination was primarily achieved through peer-reviewed scientific publications. For the wider aquaculture industry, communication included the AQUA2024 booth and an industry briefing. Finally, for policymakers, a policy brief was generated.
