Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) analysis: Main issues on management and future challenges

The main issues for Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) are analyzed, in order to lead to better solutions for future managers, identifying possible areas for improvements and future challenges for the industry. RAS-based production companies, researchers, system suppliers and consultants were interviewed separately, in order to gain an overall understanding of those systems and what developments could assist, in a positive way. Answers and subsequent analysis identified as significant barriers: poor participation by the producers; a disincentive on sharing information; and a lack of communication between different parties. The main issues are poor designs of the systems, as many had been modified after a previous approach was unsuitable; and their poor management, due mainly to an absence of skilled people taking responsibility for water quality and mechanical problems. As RAS will play an important role within the future of aquaculture, their enhancement is needed. Key priorities are the necessity to improve equipment performance, through researching at a commercial scale and further work on the best combinations of devices for each particular situation. Additional recommendations are for a specialized platform, to share knowledge on RAS, together with a more indepth and distinctive education programme.

► RAS companies, researchers and consultants all over the world were surveyed.
► Poor system designs, water quality issues and mechanical problems are the main constraints.
► 50% of the surveyed companies have been rebuilt or redesigned due to RAS system's failure.
► More than 8 years are needed to get back initial investment.
► In the future, information platforms, their availability and specialized education will be required.