Production optimisation of Tisochrysis lutea as a live feed for juvenile Sydney rock oysters, Saccostrea glomerata, using large-scale photobioreactors

The aquaculture industry uses microalgae as a live feed for juvenile oysters in hatcheries to meet their nutritional requirements, including need several essential Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) such eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA). mass culture of is not only major bottleneck the production oysters, but also significant cost, accounting 20–50% hatchery operating costs. Currently, low biomass concentrations, high costs poor cultivation systems limit quantity quality feed. This study focused on Tisochrysis lutea, species commonly used aquaculture, we assessed potential photobioreactors with an improved light source CO2 input increase improve biochemical composition algal Two photobioreactor were compared: current set up (DPI) comprising fluorescent lighting minimal versus optimized system utilising LEDs increased CO2. Cultures T. lutea monitored over 12-day growth period harvested day 14 analysis. Final cell density was significantly higher relative conventional (6.2 × 106 cells / mL 3.7 mL, respectively). profile different between two systems. produced during this comparative experiment feeding trial oyster spat, Saccostrea glomerata. Spat fed algae vs showed no difference growth, spat grown did show EPA content. Overall, our results contribute understanding how altered conditions affect microalgal composition, subsequently spat. further supports reduce yield negative effect condition spats production.