Project File

This project has received funding from Compete 2020, CRESC Algarve 2020, Portugal 2020 and the European Union

Enhance research, technological development and innovation

743.349,48€

European Union financial support

Acronym

FEEDFIRST

Title

Development of a New Technology for the Rearing of Fish Larvae at the First Feeding

Project Code

ALG-01-0247-FEDER-034050

Program

P2020 I&DT – Co-Promoção

Main Goal

Enhance research, technological development and innovation

Focus Region

Norte, Centro and Algarve

Beneficiary Entities

Sparos Lda., Riasearch Lda.; Instituto de Engenharia de Sistemas e Computadores, Tecnologia e Ciência (INESC TEC); Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP)

Leader Institution

Sparos

Total Eligible Costs

1.066.676,92 EUR

European Union Funding

ERDF – 743.349,48 EUR

April 2018

June 2018

January 2021

FEEDFIRST aims to integrate a solution for introducing inert microdiets at the onset of the first feeding of marine fish larvae reared in aquaculture, which is a critical stage due to the poor acceptance and low ingestion and digestibility of commercial microdiets by such larvae. The integrated solution proposed by FEEDFIRST includes new microdiets with high digestibility and low leaching; an innovative tank with controlled hydrodynamics and self-cleaning properties; and an automated system for feeding control.

Riasearch on FEEDFIRST:

Novel larvae rearing tank

Riasearch developed an innovative rearing tank based on the Kreisel concept, with circular water flow that keeps the larvae and feeds in suspension and well distributed in the water column, resulting in high larvae ingestion due to increased availability of feeds, while ensuring optimal oxygen levels without the risk of harming the larvae. Water flow favors the accumulation of sediment in an easy to clean area and is adjustable to the specific needs of different species and developmental stages. The new integrated solution was validated in a realistic production scenario, at a Portuguese fish hatchery (Acuinova), and compared to traditional methods.

Highlights:

The scale-up of the tanks guaranteed a homogeneous distribution of larvae and food inside the tank, simultaneously facilitating its cleaning process;
The generated water flow was proved to be adequate for maintenance of Scophthalmus maximus in its pelagic phase, with good acceptance of food used since the beginning of exogenous feeding.

FeedFirst Project

FEEDFIRST aims to integrate a solution for introducing inert microdiets at the onset of the first feeding of marine fish larvae reared in aquaculture

FeedFirst

Project - Concluded

Sponsored by:

Project File

743.349,48€

Funded by:

Partners

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