Land-based Salmon Farms Seen as Platform for Red Algae Production

A new study from Nofima indicates that discharge water from land based salmon farming systems could support commercial production of dulse (Palmaria palmata), a high value red algae used in food products. Read the whole story at Salmon Business.

Researchers tested growth rates and nutrient uptake using effluent from SalMar’s land based recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) facility. Senior scientist Philip James said the findings point to “a win win for salmon producers, new businesses and the environment”.

The trial assessed dulse performance in seawater and in 25, 50 and 100 per cent RAS discharge water. Growth was strongest in a 50 per cent dilution of discharge water, which also gave the highest removal efficiency of ammonia and nitrate.

Phosphate removal was most efficient between 25 and 50 per cent RAS water. The algae grew equally well in salinity levels ranging from brackish to full strength seawater.

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