Research Credit: Flinders University
Fish oil has long been a crucial ingredient in aquafeeds, thanks to its high concentration of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential for the growth and health of carnivorous fish. However, the reliance on wild-caught fish for this oil has raised concerns about ecological sustainability.
To tackle the rising demand for farmed seafood while minimizing environmental impact, researchers from South Australiaโs Flinders University have explored fish oil substitutes like canola and poultry oils in kingfish farming. The study highlights the potential of these alternatives to reduce the need for wild-caught fish in aquafeeds.
โReducing the use of wild-caught sardines and other small fish to sustain farmed fish will help maintain our oceans and fishery food chains,โ said Associate Professor James Harris of Flinders University. He emphasized the need to shift away from using small fish to feed larger farmed fish for human consumption.
The study found that both canola and poultry oils show promise as fish oil substitutes. However, researchers observed potential adverse effects on the livers of the farmed kingfish, signaling the need for further investigation into fat metabolism and feed composition.
Source: Fish Stocks