Optimal Nutrient Requirements For Asparagopsis Cultivation
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$199,635.00
Summary
This project supports the Commonwealth Governments’ $8.1 million investment, administered by the FRDC, in the ‘National Hatchery Network for the commercialisation of seaweed production as a key input into feedstock to help reduce methane emissions.’
Two species of Asparagopsis are native to Australia: temperate A. armata and tropical A. taxiformis. Both produce bioactive compounds (bromoform) and when fed in small amounts to cattle and sheep they reduce methane emissions by up to 98 ....This project supports the Commonwealth Governments’ $8.1 million investment, administered by the FRDC, in the ‘National Hatchery Network for the commercialisation of seaweed production as a key input into feedstock to help reduce methane emissions.’
Two species of Asparagopsis are native to Australia: temperate A. armata and tropical A. taxiformis. Both produce bioactive compounds (bromoform) and when fed in small amounts to cattle and sheep they reduce methane emissions by up to 98% (Xi et al. 2018, Kinley et al. 2020): supplementing the diet of livestock with a small amount of Asparagopsis is seen as an important way of reducing global methane production (Beauchemin et al. 2022). The ‘tetrasporophyte’ phase of the life cycle is cultured in land-based facilities and considerable effort is focussed on understanding the optimal conditions for growing Asparagopsis to maximise biomass and bromoform productivity per unit culture system.
At present, most publications describing Asparagopsis culture utilise F2 medium or similar solutions including Provasoli Enriched Seawater (PES; Anderson 2005, Mihaila et al. 2023). As a result, most seaweed farmers utilise F2 media, as this is easily available as a pre-mixed, bulk solution. However, these media were designed to culture microalgae and likely do not contain optimal nutrient combinations or concentrations. F2 alone has 14 different constituents, all in varying concentrations, which could be tested and optimised specifically for the growth of Asparagopsis.
The impact of nutrient supply regimes – both macronutrients (nitrogen in different forms i. e. nitrate vs ammonium, and phosphate) and micronutrients (trace elements such as iron, and organic molecules i.e. vitamins, such as B12) – on growth of Asparagopsis tetrasporophytes is unknown. Understanding the interplay between nutrient ratios, uptake rates, and growth outcomes is crucial information for the industry. By potentially removing unused or harmful components from the medium or adjusting supply rates, industry can enhance the cost-effectiveness of large-scale cultivation. The nutrient uptake and usage information gathered in the project will also assist bioremediation and biofilter projects proposed using Asparagopsis (https://www.seaweedalliance.org.au/news/refocused-on-biofiltration).
We will focus initially on A. armata, the most cultivated Asparagopsis species in Australia (Jo Lane pers. comm) with four companies currently growing it: the IMAS team have strong expertise in culturing. A. armata. Following development, the successful growth medium recipe will be shared with ASSA’s tropical A. taxiformis culture facility at James Cook University. Time permitting, we will conduct trials to test whether the new recipe and nutrient supply regime enhances the growth of the tropical species.
References Andersen, R. A. (Ed.). (2005) Algal culturing techniques. Academic press: New York.
Kinley R.D., G. Martinez-Fernandez, M.K. Matthews, R. de Nys, M. Magnusson, N.W. Tomkins (2020) Mitigating the carbon footprint and improving productivity of ruminant livestock agriculture using a red seaweed, J. Clean. Prod. 259.
Li X., H.C. Norman, R.D. Kinley, M. Laurence, M. Wilmot, H. Bender, R. de Nys, N. Tomkins (2018) Asparagopsis taxiformis decreases enteric methane production from sheep, Anim. Prod. Sci. 58: 681–688.
Mihaila, A.A., Lawton, R.J., Glasson, C.R.K. et al. (2023) Early hatchery protocols for tetrasporogenesis of the antimethanogenic seaweed Asparagopsis armata. J Appl Phycol 35, 2323–2335.
Objectives: 1. Adjust the components and concentrations of existing nutrient enrichment media to create an optimal blend specifically tailored for Asparagopsis 2. Determine if the supply of nutrients (dosing regime) can be manipulated to maximise growth and minimise biofouling 3. Provide recipes and recommendations to the NHN handbook for use by industry partners. Read moreRead less
The Bigger Blue Potential For Asparagopsis: A Review Of The Potential For Blue Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus And Biodiversity Credits For The Australian Asparagopsis Seaweed Industry
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$120,000.00
Summary
The project will provide a comprehensive and contemporary synthesis of relevant information on C, N& P uptake and B creation potential and existing and potential schemes which could be implemented to provide environmental benefits and commercial opportunities for the nascent industry to develop. It will involve: delivering a detailed review of existing research, theories and proposed policies for C, N&P and B schemes; producing a set of recommendations for regulators regarding scheme(s) implemen ....The project will provide a comprehensive and contemporary synthesis of relevant information on C, N& P uptake and B creation potential and existing and potential schemes which could be implemented to provide environmental benefits and commercial opportunities for the nascent industry to develop. It will involve: delivering a detailed review of existing research, theories and proposed policies for C, N&P and B schemes; producing a set of recommendations for regulators regarding scheme(s) implementation and operation; and identify potential environmental, social and economic benefits from successful schemes. Objectives: 1. Undertake a detailed literature review and summary of relevant published and grey literature, industry information and anecdotes on: science of C,N&P and B benefits of seaweed mariculture; credit/trading schemes for C,N&P and B structure and operation, implementation requirements. 2. Develop a recommended policy position for ASSA which can be used by ASSA to advocate and make clear recommendations to government on the potential for the Australian seaweed industry to benefit from the establishment of aligned credit schemes, as well as the potential accreditation of products. 3. Provide outlines of potential credit scheme(s) and implementation, including high-level SWOT analysis and cost-benefit indications. 4. Provide the above objectives and outcomes to ASSA/FRDC which can then be readily developed into regulator and other stakeholder communications outputs and tools (e.g. online formats). Read moreRead less
Formulate A Comprehensive Framework To Inform Relevant Regulatory Bodies On Safety Regulations And Legislation Pertaining To Food, Feed, And Other Forms Of Bioproducts Of Asparagopsis Spp. And Other Seaweeds Of Key Interest To The Australian Seaweed
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$190,000.00
Summary
The need for the project is evident due to several factors:
Emergence of Asparagopsis: Asparagopsis, with its potential as a livestock feed ingredient and has sparked significant interest and investment from both private and public sectors. This indicates a growing momentum within the Australian seaweed industry, particularly in the context of its diverse applications.
Lack of Seaweed Specific Regulatory Information: Despite the increasing interest in Asparagopsis and other sea ....The need for the project is evident due to several factors:
Emergence of Asparagopsis: Asparagopsis, with its potential as a livestock feed ingredient and has sparked significant interest and investment from both private and public sectors. This indicates a growing momentum within the Australian seaweed industry, particularly in the context of its diverse applications.
Lack of Seaweed Specific Regulatory Information: Despite the increasing interest in Asparagopsis and other seaweed products, there is a noticeable absence of comprehensive safety regulatory information. This gap in regulatory oversight poses potential risks to both animal and human health, as well as challenges for industry stakeholders in ensuring product safety and compliance.
The existence of small but growing production of seaweed for human consumption ( e.g. Ecklonia sp & Ulva spp) within Australia and Australian waters, that has faced significance difficulties in some states due to divergent legislation and a lack of knowledge amongst regulators on what is required currently and what could be required with regard to, actual food safety hazards and existing regulation interpretation. It is noted that some industry members have moved states, to more easily establish and expand their seaweed business.
Goal of Regulatory Synergy and Gap Filling: The project aims to address the identified regulatory gaps by collecting relevant information from different regulatory bodies. and reviewing and comparing existing regulatory requirements and industry guidelines. The project seeks to provide clarity and guidance for regulatory and industry participants to make clear and rewrite the industry requirements.
Alignment with FRDC Strategy: The project aligns closely with the strategy outlined by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC). Specifically, it supports Strategy V, which focuses on providing foundational information and support services for the growth and prosperity of the industry. Additionally, the project's outcomes directly contribute to FRDC's goals of promoting best practices and production systems, as well as fostering community trust, respect, and value in the Australian seaweed industry. By initiating investigations and assessments focused on Asparagopsis as a livestock feed ingredient and other seaweed species as a human food, the project not only addresses immediate regulatory gaps but also lays the groundwork for sustainable growth within the seaweed industry. This strategic alignment with FRDC's priorities underscores the project's significance in driving enduring prosperity, promoting best practices, and enhancing community trust and value in the Australian seaweed industry.
Objectives: 1. Develop a comprehensive regulatory framework to highlight gaps within Australian regulations regarding the domestic seaweed sector, which could be used in the future to ensure adherence to safety standards with regard to livestock feed and human consumption. 2. Increase Awareness and Understanding by publishing key gaps within Australian regulations, with regard to understanding by all regulators and stakeholders via webinars, public workshops, conferences and private meetings. 3. To Collaborate and engage regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders to share information, address gaps and streamline processes. 4. Document Risk Management strategies to address potential hazards associated with Asparagopsis and other seaweed species as stock feed and for food safety in processing of the seaweed for human consumption. Read moreRead less
Investigating The Bioremediation Potential Of Seaweed Aquaculture Across Australia
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$127,474.00
Summary
Macroalgae farms can be used to remove excess nitrogen, phosphate, and trace minerals from coastal marine waters. Genera such as Asparagopsis have been highlighted through previous research as efficient biofilters of wastewater from salmon farms, in the context of Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA). Despite recent interest in Asparagopsis-derived products and the promise shown by IMTA, macroalgae cultivation is still a minor industry in Australia, with its bioremediation potential relat ....Macroalgae farms can be used to remove excess nitrogen, phosphate, and trace minerals from coastal marine waters. Genera such as Asparagopsis have been highlighted through previous research as efficient biofilters of wastewater from salmon farms, in the context of Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA). Despite recent interest in Asparagopsis-derived products and the promise shown by IMTA, macroalgae cultivation is still a minor industry in Australia, with its bioremediation potential relatively untested.
Our project will use utilize previous research on the physiology of Asparagopsis and other valuable native macroalgaes genera (including Macrocystis, Ecklonia, Lessonia, Porphyra and Ulva) within an established model of macroalgae growth, to assess the bioremediation potential of these genera across a broad range of environmental conditions. The model will be calibrated and validated using data from previous field trials involving targeted species where possible. We will construct scenarios that assess how farm arrangement influences nutrient remediation efficacy, providing valuable insights for optimizing cultivation strategies including cultivation depth, harvesting frequency and seasonality, and the possibility of multiple partial harvests. We will also test the robustness of key results to changes and uncertainties in species’ parameterisation.
We will then apply the model within a wide range of environmental conditions representative of different growing regions in coastal Australian waters. This approach will allow us to identify and address challenges specific to bioremediation across different states and macroalgae genera, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the feasibility and implications of this innovative and low-impact approach to nutrient remediation. This research will not only inform practical cultivation strategies but also provide knowledge of environmental impacts and tools for future regulations and research.
Furthermore, the project serves as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, engaging stakeholders from scientific, industrial, and regulatory domains. By disseminating findings and facilitating dialogue, we aim to inform policy decisions, and empower stakeholders with the knowledge needed to best support innovation in this field.
Objectives: 1. To apply existing bioremediation model to specified locations across Australia, including TAS, NSW, VIC, SA and WA, for Asparagopsis and other native seaweed species with potential for cultivation. 2. To compare bioremediation potential between states based on different environmental conditions, regulatory requirements (e.g. ANZECC guidelines for exceedance nutrient concentrations in estuaries varies between states.) . 3. To compare bioremediation potential of several seaweed species using different nutrient sources (salmon aquaculture STP’s etc.) 4. To identify challenges between locations and seaweed species for achieving full bioremediation potential. 5. To develop and submit a scientific publication to a peer-reviewed journal from key findings. Read moreRead less
Design And Build A Portable Hatchery Prototype For The Australian Seaweed Industry
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$697,000.00
Summary
The Australian seaweed industry is poised for rapid development to capitalise upon its projected worth of $275 million outlined in the Australian Seaweed Industry Blueprint (Kelly, 2020). However, Australia’s current lack of commercial seaweed aquaculture means that the industry captures less than 1% of the $17 billion global market. The major R&D barrier to the development of Australia’s seaweed industry is the optimisation of breeding and propagation techniques for native Australian seaweed sp ....The Australian seaweed industry is poised for rapid development to capitalise upon its projected worth of $275 million outlined in the Australian Seaweed Industry Blueprint (Kelly, 2020). However, Australia’s current lack of commercial seaweed aquaculture means that the industry captures less than 1% of the $17 billion global market. The major R&D barrier to the development of Australia’s seaweed industry is the optimisation of breeding and propagation techniques for native Australian seaweed species, including Asparagopsis and kelps.
Many of the new and smaller Asparagopsis growers are still in the early phases of scale-up and are often searching for quick and affordable solutions for a hatchery to maintain broodstock and supply seed for their farms. Set-up of a hatchery requires specialised knowledge of water treatment systems, drainage, clean culture management, and specialised equipment such as fume hoods, laminar flow stations, autoclaves and microscopes. There are also controlled temperature spaces, where stocks should be kept axenic and isolated, and conditions can be altered for experimentation. Without access to prior knowledge of designs, and cultivation expertise, many growers struggle to understand the requirements of a laboratory.
As the developing Australian seaweed industry is widely scattered geographically, a portable hatchery will mean that it can be readily relocated to optimal locations to suit industry’s R&D or commercial needs. This will provide an opportunity for new players to reduce initial set up costs by using the portable hatchery as a 'stepping stone' as well as providing an opportunity to prove the concept before investing further.
Objectives: 1. To design and build an operational portable hatchery prototype able to work with and produce Asparagopsis cultures and to be used alongside the ASSA temperate hatchery hub. 2. Encourage new players into the industry 3. Address contamination concerns with growing Asparagopsis Read moreRead less
Biorefinery Approaches To Creating Value From Asparagopsis
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$125,000.00
Summary
The project will provide a 'blueprint' for utilization of Asparogopsis. The created ‘blueprint’ will be based on production and utilization of individual components (e.g. bromoform, bioactive polysaccharides or protein) and their potential markets. The project will also provide a product flow diagram based on a biorefinery approach, that shows processes and equipment required to provide a range of bioproducts from a single Asparogopsis biomass. The 'blueprint' will consist of flow diagrams and t ....The project will provide a 'blueprint' for utilization of Asparogopsis. The created ‘blueprint’ will be based on production and utilization of individual components (e.g. bromoform, bioactive polysaccharides or protein) and their potential markets. The project will also provide a product flow diagram based on a biorefinery approach, that shows processes and equipment required to provide a range of bioproducts from a single Asparogopsis biomass. The 'blueprint' will consist of flow diagrams and tables for production of multiple bioproducts out of a single biomass. The ‘blueprint’ will also contain information on bioprocessing methodology and equipment required for biomanufacturing of multiple bioproducts from Asparogopsis. This project will create ‘blueprints’ for both Asparagopsis taxiformis (tropical) and Asparagopsis armata (temperate) at both gametophyte and tetraporophyte life stages. This information will eventually be added to a Marine Bioproducts database of existing pilot and manufacturing scale bioprocessing capability that could be applied to developing bioproducts based on the 'blueprint.' This database component is not a part of the current project. Objectives: 1. Provide a literature review of potential bioproducts from Asparagopsis, including specific component products and potential markets. 2. Carry out proximate and compositional analysis of four different Asparagopsis materials and compare compositional differences amongst the two species and two life stages. 3. Carry out lab and selected pilot scale biorefinery bioprocessing of the representative Asparagopsis input materials and create a flow-chart including mass balance for each bioproduct output material. 4. Analyses the quality (purity and composition) of each bioproduct fraction produced through laboratory and pilot scale bioprocessing. 5. Convert the bioprocessing information into a 'blueprint' that includes mass balance, fraction composition information, equipment impact on bioproduct quality, which provides a starting bioprocessing strategy for obtaining maximal value from the Asparogopsis input material. 6. Process a ‘blueprint’ report that is available to all stakeholders. Read moreRead less
Evaluate And Optimise Cost And Energy Effective Solutions For Lighting, Carbon Delivery And Mixing In Intensive Commercial Scale Tetrasporophyte Production Of Asparagopsis
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$100,009.00
Summary
This project seeks to improve process efficiencies in inoculum production systems in hatcheries and mass culture grow out systems in land-based seaweed aquaculture facilities through selection of light sources with the appropriate spectral qualities and intensities as well as efficient carbon delivery and mixing systems. Laboratory scale optimisation trials on tetrasporophytes of A. armata and A. taxiformis will be validated under scaled-up industrial scale systems. The project proposes to trial ....This project seeks to improve process efficiencies in inoculum production systems in hatcheries and mass culture grow out systems in land-based seaweed aquaculture facilities through selection of light sources with the appropriate spectral qualities and intensities as well as efficient carbon delivery and mixing systems. Laboratory scale optimisation trials on tetrasporophytes of A. armata and A. taxiformis will be validated under scaled-up industrial scale systems. The project proposes to trial various commercially available light sources as well as carbon delivery systems that the industry could adopt. Objectives: 1. Comprehensive review of spectral quality and intensity of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), carbon delivery and mixing in high density mass cultures of the tetrasporophytes of Asparagopsis 2. Validated spectral quality and irradiance in high density tetrasporophyte cultures of A. armata and A. taxiformis 3. Developed optimised carbon delivery and mixing systems in tetrasporophyte mass cultures 4. Laboratory-scale trials validated under scale-up conditions. Read moreRead less
Australian Seaweed ED: On-line Portal Containing Material That Can Be Used By Educators, The Industry And Media To Increase Awareness And Enhance Industry’s Social License To Develop And Operate Australian Seaweed Aquaculture
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$104,000.00
Summary
Education and community understanding are pivotal in cultivating a thriving seaweed industry. The portal will serve as a knowledge hub, offering comprehensive resources for educators, media, and the public, promoting informed discussion and enhance industry’s social licence to develop and operate . The aim is to elevate public understanding and acceptance of seaweed aquaculture, addressing misconceptions and highlighting the environmental and economic benefits of the industry.
The port ....Education and community understanding are pivotal in cultivating a thriving seaweed industry. The portal will serve as a knowledge hub, offering comprehensive resources for educators, media, and the public, promoting informed discussion and enhance industry’s social licence to develop and operate . The aim is to elevate public understanding and acceptance of seaweed aquaculture, addressing misconceptions and highlighting the environmental and economic benefits of the industry.
The portal will have two sections one for educational resources one for regulatory and the permitting process (see Project 2023/194) and housing it under one “digital roof”. This One-Stop-Shop will ensure a focus on the individual portals while achieving additional benefits, including reducing redundancy and optimising resource use, simplifying user access and navigation and supporting the industry's operational needs while promoting awareness and understanding, strengthening social and regulatory standing.
Objectives: 1. Develop an online updatable portal that provides information and resources for educators, industry practitioners, and media, promoting informed discussion and engagement with the Australian seaweed farming sector. Read moreRead less
Establish An On-line Portal Where Australian Seaweed Industry Members Can Find Contact Details And Useful Associated Information To Facilitate State And Federal Government Permitting Of Seaweed Related Activities
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$155,000.00
Summary
Sourcing and completing seaweed permitting is typically State Government based and complex, an on-line portal will help facilitate the process for those seeking to complete permit applications. At its core, the portal will be designed to streamline the permitting process, a critical bottleneck for industry stakeholders. By consolidating state and federal permitting information, guidelines, and applications into one accessible location, the portal dramatically simplifies the regulatory navigatio ....Sourcing and completing seaweed permitting is typically State Government based and complex, an on-line portal will help facilitate the process for those seeking to complete permit applications. At its core, the portal will be designed to streamline the permitting process, a critical bottleneck for industry stakeholders. By consolidating state and federal permitting information, guidelines, and applications into one accessible location, the portal dramatically simplifies the regulatory navigation process. This efficiency not only reduces administrative burdens but also accelerates the timeline from permit application to operational activity, directly contributing to industry growth and vibrancy.
The portal will have two sections one for regulatory and the permitting process and one for educational resources (see Project 2023/196) and housing them under one “digital roof”. This One-Stop-Shop will ensure a focus on the individual portals while achieving additional benefits, including reducing redundancy and optimising resource use, simplifying user access and navigation and supporting the industry's operational needs while promoting awareness and understanding, strengthening social and regulatory standing. Objectives: 1. To develop a portal Read moreRead less