Low trophic Aquaculture

AquaMARE - MARE Research group on aquaculture and marine resources sustainability is interested in joining an international consortium applying to call HORIZON-CL6-2025-02-FARM2FORK-10 (Diversifying aquaculture production with emphasis on low-trophic species) or other Horizon Europe call where our research could add value. Our research focuses on low-trophic aquaculture and aquaculture diversification. We have expertise in various aspects of low-trophic aquaculture and have conducted experimental trials aimed at achieving specific objectives, including microalgae cultivation, sea urchin juvenile production, enhancement of sea urchin gonads, and sea urchin grow-out in both mono-culture and integrated culture systems. Furthermore, we have been examining the effects of climate change on sea urchin and oyster production. We use a range of indicators, including morphometric, physiological, and organoleptic analysis, to evaluate the impact of climate change drivers on the production yield of species crucial to low-trophic aquaculture.

MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre is a centre for research, technological development, and innovation, with Regional Research Units located across mainland Portugal and the islands. The objective of MARE is to achieve excellence in the study of aquatic ecosystems and disseminate knowledge to support policies for sustainable development. AquaMARE is based at Cetemares, the research infrastructure of MARE-Polytechnic of Leiria. MARE-Polytechnic of Leiria focuses its research and technological development on marine sciences and the emerging sectors of the blue economy, such as Marine Biotechnology, Aquaculture, and Marine Food Resources. MARE-Polytechnic of Leiria is integrated in a dynamic and fruitful network of blue economy companies and stakeholders that are the heart of the strategic hub of the Blue Economy. The infrastructure, located in Peniche, is fully equipped with aquaculture, biotechnology, food technology, and molecular analysis laboratories and equipment.