Reflecting on Aquaculture America 2021 (San Antonio, TX)
Just over a week ago, one of the first face-to-face events within the global aquaculture industry took place: AQUACULTURE AMERICA 2021 in San Antonio, Texas, USA. The conference was attended by hundreds of students, producers, researchers, extension workers, government representatives and nearly a 100 commercial exhibitors.
On the academic and research side, 280 students, public and private researchers had the opportunity to present their findings to their peers. In addition to the popular topics usually addressed on the association’s meetings, such as studies on pathogens and parasites or nutritional requirements of fish and crustaceans, some of the diverse presentations that took place during the sessions were:
Use of economic tools to improve the productive performance of aquaculture farms, elaboration of business plans and the application of ecolabeling
The impact of COVID on aquaculture producers and how consumption trends have been modified
Analysis of the nutritional and immune effects of unconventional feed ingredients such as macroalgae, cricket flour, black soldier fly meal, blood plasma and microalgae, among many others
Use of proteomic, transcriptomic and genomic technologies for the study of aquacultured species
Performance of aquaponic systems for different species, using different lighting sources and water quality levels
The importance of adequate regulatory, education and extension policies for the growth of aquaculture
Regarding the trade show, companies presented specialized equipment that ranged from sorting, oxygenation, water quality analysis, vaccines and products for animal health, cages, feed additives, complete feed and probiotics. This allowed producers to have a personalized approach to the latest technologies in the industry.
On the subject of probiotics and bioremediation microorganisms, different companies took the opportunity to connect with producers and promote the use of beneficial bacteria. Discussions focused on the use of bacteria to improve water quality and animal health, by suppressing pathogens, reducing algal blooms and increasing the digestive and immune capabilities of cultured animals, with direct applications to the water or in conjunction with the complete feed.
On behalf of QB Labs, it was great to connect back with potential clients, motivated students, technical experts and in general, industry promoters with decades of experience, after going through a difficult pandemic season for everyone. We hope to continue working with the various players within the industry to help them achieve their production goals, profitability and sustainability of their companies.
