Aquaculture, a rapidly growing sector in global food production, is facing mounting environmental challenges, particularly in wastewater management. A recent comprehensive review published in the journal ‘Water’ explores an innovative solution that could transform this industry: the use of oxygenic photosynthetic microorganisms (OPhMs), including microalgae and cyanobacteria, in sustainable wastewater treatment systems.
Lead author Ana Valentina Zamfirescu from the Department of Microbiology at the Institute of Biology Bucharest of the Romanian Academy emphasizes the dual role of OPhMs in aquaculture. “These microorganisms not only remove harmful pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus but also enhance water quality through oxygenation,” she explains. This symbiotic relationship between microalgae and bacteria creates a closed-loop system that significantly improves nutrient removal efficiency, making it a promising solution for aquaculture operations.
The review highlights that OPhM systems can achieve up to 99% nitrogen removal and over 90% phosphorus removal in aquaculture wastewater. This efficiency is coupled with the potential to generate biomass that can be repurposed as biofuel, animal feed, and other valuable bioproducts. Zamfirescu notes, “The integration of these systems into aquaculture operations not only reduces the ecological footprint but also contributes to a circular economy model, where waste is transformed into resources.”
As aquaculture production is projected to reach approximately 109 million tons by 2030, the need for sustainable wastewater treatment technologies has never been more urgent. The review underscores the economic viability of OPhM-based systems, which can reduce wastewater treatment costs by up to 30%. The revenue generated from the sale of algal biomass can help offset operational expenses, making these systems an attractive option for aquaculture farmers.
However, challenges remain. The review points out that process stability, particularly under low-temperature conditions, and the efficiency of biomass harvesting require further research. Zamfirescu urges, “Future studies should focus on optimizing bio-flocculation techniques and developing cost-effective membrane separation systems for efficient biomass harvesting.”
This research paves the way for significant advancements in the water, sanitation, and drainage sector. By harnessing the natural capabilities of OPhMs, the aquaculture industry can not only improve sustainability but also enhance its economic prospects. The findings from this review provide a robust framework for future development and optimization of OPhM-based wastewater treatment systems, potentially reshaping how aquaculture manages its environmental impact.
For more information on this research, visit the Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology Bucharest.