Deakin University researchers consider that reducing the amount of marine-derived natural resources such as fish meal and fish oil in the diet of farmed Atlantic salmon, may assured the budding growth of the aquaculture industry in the coming decades.
According to the study, consumers are demanding more and more Atlantic salmon and how the distribution will succeed may be determined by how "wisely" fish meal and fish oil are used. Journal Nature Food has published Deakin University study.
To clarify, the researchers from Deakin's School of Life and Environmental Sciences have used predictive modeling to forecast industry growth. Based on different dietary formulations in feeds for Atlantic salmon.
Also, they keep an eye on the nutritional value of the fish. For example, the nutritional value of the fish, particularly on levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These components guard against heart attack and stroke. Also, they are tied to a lower risk of Type 2 Diabetes, macular degeneration, and Alzheimer's disease.
Regarding all this, Associate Professor David Francis explained: "The continued development and adoption of novel raw materials will further decrease the current reliance on finite marine resources. We envisage that this study will progress the conversation on balancing the development of the aquaculture industry with the conservation of fisheries."
Deakin University is located in Melbourne, Geelong, and Warrnambool. It is a leader in aquaculture research and training.
It plans are to build a $9.8 million state-of-the-art aquaculture research innovation center on the Waurn Ponds campus in 2023.
The Aquaculture and Feed Innovation Hub (AquaFI Hub) includes contributions from the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund (VHESIF).
