Recent research led by Inka Anglade from the Department of Biology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology has unveiled promising insights into nutrient upcycling through the use of aquaculture sludge. This study, published in “Frontiers in Marine Science,” focuses on the polychaete worm Hediste diversicolor, which has shown potential for transforming nutrient-rich waste from salmon aquaculture into valuable biomass.
As the aquaculture industry, particularly Atlantic salmon farming, continues to expand, managing the nutrient-rich waste generated has become increasingly critical. The study investigates how H. diversicolor can effectively utilize aquaculture sludge to enhance nutrient flows of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. By analyzing the effects of varying feed supplies on nutrient uptake, the research highlights significant differences in how these nutrients are processed by the worms.
In conditions with high feed supply, the study found that a substantial portion of the ingested nutrients was allocated to growth: 76% of carbon, 83% of nitrogen, and 85% of phosphorus. This indicates that when H. diversicolor is fed adequately, it can efficiently convert waste into biomass. Conversely, in low feed supply conditions, most ingested carbon was used for respiration, suggesting that inadequate nutrient supply limits growth potential.
This research presents a commercial opportunity for the energy sector, particularly in the context of sustainable aquaculture practices. By integrating nutrient upcycling into aquaculture operations, companies could reduce waste and enhance productivity. The ability to convert aquaculture sludge into biomass not only addresses waste management challenges but also opens pathways for creating alternative protein sources or biofuels, which are increasingly sought after in the energy market.
Anglade emphasizes the importance of understanding nutrient flows in optimizing the large-scale production of H. diversicolor. “Nutrient uptake reflected the smolt sludge composition rather than nutrient requirements for H. diversicolor, which may be a short-term effect and needs to be investigated further,” she notes. This understanding could help refine aquaculture practices, ensuring that energy sectors can tap into sustainable feed sources while minimizing environmental impacts.
As the industry seeks innovative solutions to enhance sustainability, the findings from this study could pave the way for new approaches in both aquaculture and energy production, aligning with global goals for resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.
