This project seeks to improve process efficiencies in inoculum production systems in hatcheries and mass culture grow out systems in land-based seaweed aquaculture facilities through selection of light sources with the appropriate spectral qualities and intensities as well as efficient carbon delivery and mixing systems. Laboratory scale optimisation trials on tetrasporophytes of A. armata and A. taxiformis will be validated under scaled-up industrial scale systems. The project proposes to trial various commercially available light sources as well as carbon delivery systems that the industry could adopt.
Final report
This report investigates optimal conditions for land-based cultivation of Asparagopsis armata to enhance biomass growth and reduce contamination, focusing on photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), light spectrum, and carbon dioxide delivery. Findings indicate that PAR levels between 50–100 μmol photons m−2 s−1, especially at 50 μmol photons m−2 s−1, maximise growth and minimise contamination over five weeks. Blue light spectrum at 50 μmol photons m−2 s−1 yields the highest growth rate, and CO2 addition at a pH threshold of 7.5 significantly improves tetrasporophyte growth, whereas lower pH increases mortality and hampers development.
