Pilot action: co-culture of abalone and sea cucumbers

The aquaculture platform of Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, located in Concarneau, is conducting an innovative experiment on the co-culture of abalone and sea cucumbers. This study is an integral part of a deep-water Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system, which utilizes cultivated and/or harvested macroalgae to create a balanced and sustainable ecosystem.

The primary objective of this pilot action is to evaluate the technical feasibility, survival, and growth performance of Holothuria forskali sea cucumbers when reared at various stocking densities. The experiment spans a three-year grow-out phase, using juveniles sourced from a previous project, with consistent monitoring of growth throughout the period.

Preliminary results from this study are highly promising:

Enhanced growth in co-culture: Holothuria forskali exhibits superior growth when co-cultured with abalone compared to monoculture conditions.

• Optimal stocking density: A density of up to 77 individuals per square meter has shown strong growth performance, indicating efficient use of space and resources.
  
  
• Potential for further optimization: The maximum biomass density per square meter has not yet been reached, suggesting there is still room for improvement and optimization in the system.
  
  
• Sustainable aquaculture approach: The co-culture of abalone and sea cucumbers within an IMTA system presents a promising approach for sustainable and integrated aquaculture practices.
  
  

This innovative project not only highlights the potential for sustainable marine resource management but also underscores the importance of continuous research and development in the field of aquaculture. By leveraging the symbiotic relationships between different marine species, the AQUAFISH 0.0 project is paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient marine sector.