B2E Technological Sonar Initiative #38
Biotechnology and aquaculture are advancing sustainability with innovations like cricket-based feeds, algae-derived ingredients, and AI fish-counting tools. Can these breakthroughs drive a more sustainable blue economy? Explore the latest updates with us!
AQUACULTURE
The biotechnological potential of crickets as a sustainable protein source for fishmeal replacement in aquafeed
Aquaculture demands cost-effective protein sources as fishmeal (FM) prices rise. Cricket meal (CM) is a sustainable alternative with high protein content and digestibility, supporting growth, immunity, and gut health in fish and shrimp. While chitin content and scalability pose challenges, biotechnological solutions can improve the protein quality for its safe use in aquafeed.
MDPI – BioTech
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Algae-based ingredients prove effective in salmon feed trials
This research evaluated the inclusion of AlgaPrime™ DHA LS microalgae in Atlantic salmon feeds, focusing on lipid extraction and digestibility. The inclusion of AlgaPrime™ DHA LS was tested before extrusion and in the vacuum coating step, showing good physical stability and nutrient digestibility, including saturated fatty acids. The addition of microalgae in the vacuum coating step allowed for high oil absorption without significant loss. The results showed no need for additional cell wall rupture of the microalgae, and replacing part of the oils with AlgaPrime™ DHA LS did not negatively affect digestibility in salmon, demonstrating a favorable lipid profile.
Aquafeed
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AI fish counting app lands innovation award
A machine learning application that allows aquaculture operators to use their smartphones to count fish in real-time has been selected to receive an innovation award at the annual tech event CES 2025. The app can count submerged fish with up to 95% accuracy and is the result of a collaboration between a Japanese company using SoftBank’s graphic simulation technology and a US company utilizing Aizip’s AI technology.
The Fish Site
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LIVING MARINE RESOURCES
Renewable low-viscosity algae-based polyester-polyols for biodegradable thermoplastic polyrethanes
Disclosed herein are poly ester-poly ols comprising subunits from succinic acid, a linear aliphatic dicarboxylic acid with at least 9 carbons, and a C2-C6 diol, wherein the polyester¬ polyol has a viscosity of less than 2400 cP at 55 °C, and thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) prepared from the same, as well as methods of preparation of the polyester-polyols and TPUs, methods of their use, and products containing the same.
Patentscope
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MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY
Extraction and purification of biopolymers from marine origin sources envisaging their use for biotechnological applications
Biopolymers from marine sources are sustainable alternatives for cosmetics, medical, and food uses. Various extraction methods have been explored for obtaining polysaccharides, proteins, and glycosaminoglycans from marine resources, such as agar from seaweeds, chitin from crustaceans, and collagen from fish. This review describes the established extraction and purification techniques. It also includes a practical guide with protocols for more efficient and environmentally friendly extraction methods.
Pubmed
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Extraction of native collagen from fish scales
The present invention relates to an innovative device designed to extract native collagen from dried fish scales. This device is made up of several key components that operate together to ensure the efficiency of the extraction process.
Esoacenet
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Method for producing a genetically modified plant organism and genetically modified organism obtainable thereby
Method for producing a genetically modified plant organism, in particular algae or microalgae, which can accumulate lipids with a modified lipid profile to produce oils for food use.
Patentscope