Project News

Feasibility of using microalgae grown on digestate as a feed ingredient for aquaculture demonstrated by the latest ALG-AD experiments

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A recent report produced by Swansea University researchers has highlighted the benefits of including microalgae, grown using nutrients that would otherwise go to waste, as a fish feed. Experiments conducted with tilapia – a fish used extensively as a model species for aquaculture research – showed that replacement of the majority of fish meal used in aquafeed with a microalgae substitute is possible, with no detrimental welfare effects on the fish. Whilst growth rates of the fish fed with the ALG-AD feed were slower, there were no harmful effects on the animals, and the growth rate differences could be linked to the fish getting used to the new feed, supported by analysis of the fish microbiome. Additionally, the ALG-AD feed resulted in a greater microbial diversity, which conveys better immunity for the fish. Importantly, however, the fatty acids within the fish were significantly improved by using the ALG-AD feed, and higher levels of Omega-6, in particular, were found. This fatty acid, known to provide health benefits, could improve the commercial value of the fish. Read More

From Anaerobic Digestion to Microalgae: Reflections from the ALG-AD networking event

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ALG-AD project partners gathered together with an international audience this week to present results from our work cultivating algae using digestate. Presentations covered the full end to end process, from digestate to algae to animal feed, and speakers took part in Q & A sessions with attendees, and all visitors were able to network in a virtual conference area. Visitors were also able to run through a demonstration of the decision support tools with the development team, as well as exploring a range of project related video and exhibition content, and accessing a virtual gift bag to take away from the event. Feedback from attendees was positive, and there were some interesting discussions with the team regarding future ideas and collaborations. We thank our project partners at AC3A for hosting such an innovative event and developing an engaging programme of ALG-AD virtual events. You can access our past webinars and videos on our YouTube channel, and follow us on social media to keep in touch with future events. Read More

The European Sustainable Phosphorous Platform Webinar brings together a European network

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A relevant and extremely well-attended webinar was convened by the European Sustainable Phosphorous Platform on Monday 22nd March, to discuss regulatory obstacles concerning nutrient valorisation from waste-derived algae. Over 500 attendees engaged with short presentations and extensive chat discussions based on the information shared by European projects and organisations, all highlighting the regulatory challenges being faced in their respective contexts. Read More

Spring newsletter is here!

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ALG-AD has recently sent out our Spring newsletter to share developments and results, team member profiles, as well as upcoming events. You can sign up to join the mailing list here – we are hoping to release these on a quarterly basis, and hope you find them useful! Any feedback on the newsletters, please contact Louise Hall, l.t.hall@swansea.ac.uk Read More