Location: Aquatic Animal Health Research
2021 Annual Report
Objectives
1. Develop, evaluate, and improve fish production systems for aquaponics.
Component 6: Problem Statement 6A
2. Develop, evaluate, and improve plant production systems for aquaponics.
Component 6: Problem Statement 6B
3. Develope environmentally and economically sustainable aquaponic systems.
Component 6: Problem Statement 6C
Approach
Auburn University faculty and their associated research team and ARS investigators will work collaboratively on both the aquatic animal and plant components in an effort to improve the yield and efficiencies of aquaponics production systems. Topics of interest to be explored include the optimization of: aquaculture system type, fish feeds, stocking densities, alternative aquatic species (e.g., high-value species such as pompano, red drum, cobia, marine shrimp, etc.), oxygenation strategies, animal and plant disease management, plant yields, improving nutrient and water use efficiencies, postharvest product quality, and salt tolerance.
Progress Report
ARS received new FY 2021 funding to establish this project at the Aquatic Animal Health Research lab, Auburn, Alabama. We have started the process to establish and hire 3 new scientist positions with expertise in fish nutrition, microbial ecology and aquaculture engineering. A new Congressionally Mandated non-assistance cooperative agreement has been establish with Auburn University, "Developing Sustainable Aquaponic Production Systems."
Accomplishments
