AquaS offers capabilities and skill sets for fundamental and applied research, covering studies from fish metabolism and nutrition to broader analyses at the farm or global food chain levels.
How we excel:
Unravel complexities: We are driven to understand and address the intricacies within and across different levels of the aquaculture sector to enhance sustainable practices.
Grounded in quantitative analysis: Our research is deeply rooted in quantitative methods.
Collaborative approach: We work closely with experimental facilities, analytical laboratories, farms, and researchers to foster inter- and intradisciplinary studies.
Specific areas of research expertise and interest
The overall disciplinary focus of AquaS can be summarised as Aquatic Nutritional Ecology, and our research efforts are primarily on the following areas:
Lipids and fatty acids metabolism
Investigating the pathways and physiological responses associated with lipids and fatty acid metabolism in farmed animal species, with implications for resource optimisation and nutritional and health benefits for both humans and aquatic, farmed species.
Dynamic growth and nutritional responses
Exploring how changing conditions affect the mechanisms of nutrient utilisation by farmed aquatic species and translating this understanding into math models. Our focus lies on feed efficiency and nutrient release to comprehensively describe the core factors influencing product quality and nutrient availability for co-cultures.
Food and aquafeed technology
Researching innovative technologies and formulations to improve the nutritional content and sustainability of aquafeed, as well as feeding technologies and management strategies, with a focus on enhancing food safety and reducing environmental impact through multi-objective studies.
Circular aquatic systems
Developing mathematical models and simulation scenarios to determine optimal design and operation options for aquaculture facilities based on circular economy principles, such as biomass valorisation, aquaponics and biofloc-based systems.
Environmental sustainability
Applying life cycle assessment (LCA) and emergy synthesis methodologies to quantify the environmental footprint of aquaculture practices and identify opportunities for improvement.
Socio-economic impact analysis
Collaborating with experienced social and economic researchers to identify the socio-economic impact of circular aquaculture practices on farmers, local communities, livelihoods, and food security.
Climate-resilient aquaculture
Simulating adaptive management practices and technologies to uncover the impacts of climate change on aquatic food supply and ensure resilience in the face of environmental variability, tailoring innovative solutions to local socio-economic conditions.
Multi-criteria decision tools
Designing decision support systems and frameworks to help stakeholders evaluate and prioritise practices in aquaculture that align with environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
Governance and policy analysis
Examining policy frameworks, trade regulations, and governance structures that influence the sustainability and development of aquatic food industries, with a focus on promoting effective stakeholder engagement toward sustainable practices.