Investigating the use of nanobubble technology in aquaculture

 
Lake with fishing boats
© Sophie St-Hilaire

Nanobubble technology, a nonchemical disinfection method that involves injecting ultrafine bubbles of a chosen gas (each with its own disinfection properties) into water, is transforming wastewater treatment industries around the world. Research into new applications for nanobubbles suggests that aquaculture could benefit from this innovative technology.

The challenge

Small and medium-sized aquaculture farms in Asia struggle to reduce infectious diseases. On fish and shellfish farms in Vietnam and Thailand, the risk of outbreaks is heightened by limited access to high-quality water and the high density of animals in ponds. These challenges lead to the overuse of antimicrobials and the development of antimicrobial resistance. Finding cost-effective alternatives to antimicrobials is essential to ensure the sustainability of small aquaculture farms in developing countries.

Expected results

This project will establish protocols for using nanobubble technology in aquaculture to reduce antimicrobial use, diminish antibiotic seepage into the environment, and enhance fish and shellfish growth.  

Nanobubble technology will be assessed for its capacity to:

  • reduce exposure to pathogens on aquaculture farms;

  • improve vaccine efficacy;

  • enhance growth without the use of antimicrobials; and

  • remove antimicrobials that leach out of medicated feed during therapeutic treatments.

Lead institutions

This project is a collaboration between the City University of Hong Kong, the Research Institute for Aquaculture in Vietnam, and Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University in Thailand.

•  Duration: 33 months

•  Budget: CA$2,751,400