On March 4th 2026, AquaLoop Pilot 1 TARAS – Testing Algae Applications in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) to Improve Aquaculture Circularity Potential in the South Baltic Region hosted 3rd-year students of Aquaculture – Business and Technology (University of Gdańsk) as part of their course “Environmental Impact of Aquaculture.”
During the visit, the students were guided through the facility and introduced to key aspects of its operations, including the modified RAS500 system, aquaculture in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), and the environmental benefits of closed water-loop production. The TARAS team also presented white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) farming, covering the origin of SPF stock, feeding practices, and dietary differences compared to other farmed shrimp species. The discussion highlighted important aspects such as the origin of the shrimp, the duration of the production cycle, feeding regimes, and key water quality parameters, including pH.
This initiative provided the students with valuable hands-on experience and an opportunity to engage in applied aquaculture research.
Currently, the second trial within AquaLoop Pilot 1 TARAS is underway. The pilot focuses on developing integrated technologies that combine shrimp farming with selected microalgae strains in RAS systems. Its objectives include effluent treatment, production of high-value algal biomass, and demonstrating potential applications of the biomass produced.
We thank the students for their visit and interest in sustainable aquaculture development.
Text and photo credit: Halina Kendzierska