In aquaculture, what is the benefit of using recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS)?

Using recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) has several notable benefits, especially significant improvements in water quality and a reduction in water usage. RAS is designed to filter and reuse water within the system. This means that water is continuously cycled through mechanical and biological filters, which help maintain optimal water quality parameters like oxygen levels, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate concentrations. Such systems can achieve higher densities of fish farming while minimizing the need for water input, which is particularly advantageous in areas where water resources are limited.

By effectively managing waste and nutrients, RAS also provides a more stable environment for fish, which can lead to increased health and potentially better growth rates. Furthermore, this system allows for the specific management of water parameters, which can enhance overall fish welfare. Given these characteristics, RAS is an efficient and sustainable option for aquaculture, making it increasingly popular in both commercial and research settings.