Recent progress in the use of processed microalgae in aquaculture

Mass-cultured algal biomass has been tested as a food source for a number of aquaculture animals because of its low cost and convenience. This paper reviews the results of nutritional studies on processed microalgae with respect to mollusc, crustacean, rotifer and fish culture. Research using species of Spirulina, Chlorella, Scenedesmus and other mass-produced algae indicates that microalgae can be an effective dietary component provided that processing, diet formulation and presentation requirements are met. Processed microalgae can be used to correct specific dietary deficiencies in artificial diets. Our research found that the growth and pigmentation of marron, Cherax tenuimanus (Decapoda, Crustacea), can be significantly enhanced by the incorporation of Dunaliella salina in its artificial diet. Likewise, rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, were pigmented by Haematococcus pluvialis.