In recent years, global per capita fish consumption has risen sharply. According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations), it stood at around 9.1 kg in 1961 and around 20.7 kg in 2022. Aquaculture is playing an increasingly important role in meeting this demand. Fish farms and modern aquaculture facilities make it possible to produce fish and seafood in a controlled and efficient manner without relying exclusively on wild catches. At the same time, the focus is shifting to the sustainable use of resources in order to secure production in the long term. Water treatment plays an important role in this, as stable water quality is crucial for the health of the fish, the growth of stocks and the smooth operation of modern aquaculture facilities.
Efficient water circulation as a basis
The breeding of marine animals requires large quantities of clean water of consistently good quality. It must be enriched with sufficient oxygen. The consumption of aquatic food has increased significantly faster than the growth of the world’s population, and this is putting enormous pressure on aquaculture operators.
To rear 1 kg of marine animals in an aquaculture facility, approximately 1–1.5 kg of feed, large quantities of circulating water, a constant supply of oxygen and stable water parameters such as temperature, pH value and salinity are usually required. If the water is not treated and reused efficiently, this can lead to increased operating costs, poorer animal growth and economic losses for operators.
To avoid this, aquaculture operators rely on modern technology. A low pressure water pump ensures even circulation of the water within the facility and transports it efficiently through filter, oxygenation and treatment systems. This keeps the water quality stable and enables continuous exchange within
UV technology for reducing bacteria and pathogens
Aquaculture operators rely not only on automated systems, but also on state-of-the-art technology. For example, they make use of UV systems. The light can damage the DNA of microorganisms, preventing bacteria, viruses and other pathogens from multiplying.
This improves the microbiological load, leading to more stable conditions in the tank. A lower number of pathogens in turn reduces the risk of infections and diseases within the stock. The systems have another advantage: unlike chemical disinfection methods, UV treatment does not introduce any additional substances into the water.
For aquaculture operators, choosing the right water treatment technology is therefore just as important as restaurant operators choosing the right furnishings. Just as different types of restaurant furniture influence comfort, functionality and efficiency in operation, different technical solutions in aquaculture facilities can also determine economic efficiency, water quality and the health of the stock.
The conversion to sustainable aquaculture development is even supported. There are various support programmes in the European Union that promote investment in innovative and environmentally friendly technologies. One key instrument, for example, is the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). The fund provides billions of pounds to promote sustainable aquaculture, more efficient use of resources and technological innovations in fish farming.
