The search continues for an alternate, more sustainable source of fish feed for the growing aquaponics industry.
Lethbridge Polytechnic will research the use of canola-based feed in aquaponics which has the potential to open a new market for canola producers.
Senior research scientist Dr. Nick Savidov will lead the project that will examine the use of canola-supplemented fish feed, in place of fish meal, in commercial aquaponics production. The project could lead to significant savings for the aquaculture industry, as well as offering polytechnic students a learning opportunity.
“Using a byproduct from the canola industry means a potential new market and additional revenue for canola farmers,” Savidov said.
Aquaponics is the integrated culture of fish, plants and beneficial micro-organisms grown in a soilless environment. Fish and plants grow in one ecosystem, eliminating the waste they separately produce by turning it into something of use.
Fish meal, which is made from dried and milled fish, is a common source of protein in fish feed, including that used in aquaponics. Savidov said it is expensive and not terribly sustainable in that fish must be killed in order to “grow fish.” Replacing that protein with the protein from the solid waste left after oil is extracted from canola seeds could have multiple benefits.
One of the objectives of the project will be assessing the economic value of a cheaper source of fish feed in aquaponics production. Savidov said he’s confident there will also be substantial cost savings for the aquaculture industry.
“One of the reasons that the aquaculture industry, especially the in-land aquaculture industry, is developing relatively slowly and not competitive enough is because of the cost of fish feed,” he said.
Canola Council of Canada agronomy specialist and research lead Chris Manchur said with domestic canola crushing capacity expanding there is a desire to find new ways to utilize canola meal and aquaculture is a natural fit.
“Helping enhance the sustainability of our food systems in Canada and beyond is important, and we’re looking forward to the outcomes from this work happening in aquaponics right here on the Prairies,” Manchur said.
Lethbridge Polytechnic students will be involved in stages of the research project, including module construction and experiments involving the collection of data, observation and analysis.
Savidov said the students will leave the polytechnic with invaluable experience they couldn’t get anywhere else in Canada.