Dear Colleagues,

Aquaculture is undoubtedly a critical sector for satisfying the needs of a growing human population and meeting the Sustainable Development Goals of Agenda 2030. Nevertheless, some current paradigms should be changed to match the sustainable production of aquatic organisms. To improve sustainability, the linear economy model should move to the circular economy, and low-trophic-level species should replace high-trophic-level species monoculture. Combining species with complementary ecosystemic functions and requirements in the same culture allows for more efficient production systems. In this way, developing integrated multi-spatial, multi-niche, or multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) may be a solution. Innovative systems associating autotrophic organisms, microbes, and suspension- and deposit-feeders with manufactured-diet-fed species may improve the efficiency of using natural resources and circularity. On the other hand, farming low-trophic species in monoculture and integrated culture is more environmentally efficient than farming high-trophic-level ones.

This Special Issue aims to publish high-quality research on innovative integrated aquaculture systems developed in marine or inland waters, as well as on the biology and farming of low-trophic species suitable for sustainable aquaculture. We consider low-trophic species the primary producers, as well as herbivorous, detritus feeders, and other animals fed mainly on plankton and benthic invertebrates. Studies focused on all value chain elements of aquaculture are appropriate. We welcome the submission of original research articles or short communications and reviews.

Prof. Dr. Wagner C. Valenti
Prof. Dr. Eduardo Luis Ballester
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• integrated aquaculture
• IMTA
• circular aquaculture
• low-trophic aquaculture