As part of the AquaLoop project a Master’s student in Aquaculture from the University of Rostock conducted a two-month research stay at the University of Gdańsk. The internship took place from February 4th to April 2nd, 2025, and was fully embedded within the AquaLoop objectives of promoting knowledge exchange and the development of sustainable aquaculture technologies through international collaboration.
During the internship, the student contributed to research activities related to the TARAS pilot – Testing Algae Applications in Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) to improve aquaculture circularity potential in the SB region. The work focused on the reconditioning of effluent water from shrimp aquaculture to support the cultivation of microalgae. The overarching goal was to improve the removal of excess nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus compounds) through algae-based bioremediation strategies, supporting circular use of water in land-based aquaculture systems.
Key tasks included: selection and screening of microalgal strains capable of thriving in saline aquaculture effluents; evaluation of growth performance under controlled conditions; biochemical profiling of the resulting algal biomass, including the quantification of photosynthetic pigments, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates; ssessment of the commercial potential of the algal biomass for applications in aquaculture feed, biotechnology, or bioenergy.
This exchange contributed to the scientific goals of the TARAS pilot and provided the student with valuable hands-on experience in applied research and fostered cross-border collaboration in the development of sustainable and integrated aquaculture solutions.
Thank you for the involvment and cooperation!