Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) use less water than open pond systems and the concentrated wastes generated by fish in RAS are easier to collect and reuse. High operating costs limit RAS use to high-value species production. One strategy to improve productivity and offset the high operating costs is to convert the solid waste from the aquaculture systems to more valuable byproducts.

Many of the world’s natural fisheries have been decimated. To meet future seafood demands, aquaculture must continue to grow. However, aquatic resources are limited, and aquaculture development must address the serious concerns of resource allocation, environmental impact, and sustainability. Current aquaculture activities in the United States vary by region. Although the North Central Region (NCR) is rich in freshwater resources, traditional aquaculture activities (both public and private) have been principally driven toward satisfying the demands for recreational fishing and tourism. Other regions of the United States have specialized in the production of fish and seafood for human food markets (e.g., catfish in the south and salmonids in Idaho).