Explore Top 10 Aquaculture Trends & Innovations in 2025

In 2025, aquaculture trends are shifting toward a technology-driven, sustainable food production system in response to environmental challenges, population growth, and increasing seafood demand. The global aquaculture market is projected to reach USD 417.8 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2025 to 2030.

Companies are implementing recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), precision aquaculture, and alternative aquafeed ingredients to minimize environmental impact and improve yield efficiency.

Innovation in farming practices, genetics, and system design is becoming crucial for scalable, ethical seafood production as oceans experience more stress and regulatory scrutiny rises.

What are the Top 10 Aquaculture Trends in 2025?

1. Sustainable Seafood Production
2. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)
3. Advanced Fish Farms
4. Precision Aquaculture
5. Offshore Aquaculture
6. Genomics and Selective Breeding
7. Alternative Aquafeed Ingredients
8. Vertical Aquaculture
9. Aquaponics
10. Biofloc Technology (BFT)

Methodology: How We Created the Aquaculture Trend Report

For our trend reports, we leverage our proprietary StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, covering 7M+ global startups, 20K technologies & trends plus 150M+ patents, news articles, and market reports.

Creating a report involves approximately 40 hours of analysis. We evaluate our own startup data and complement these insights with external research, including industry reports, news articles, and market analyses. This process enables us to identify the most impactful and innovative trends in the aquaculture industry.

For each trend, we select two exemplary startups that meet the following criteria:

• Relevance: Their product, technology, or solution aligns with the trend.
• Founding Year: Established between 2020 and 2025.
• Company Size: A maximum of 200 employees.
• Location: Specific geographic considerations.

This approach ensures our reports provide reliable, actionable insights into the aquaculture innovation ecosystem while highlighting startups driving technological advancements in the industry.

Innovation Map outlines the Top 10 Aquaculture Trends & 20 Promising Startups

For this in-depth research on the Top Aquaculture Trends & Startups, we analyzed a sample of 530+ global startups & scaleups. The Aquaculture Innovation Map created from this data-driven research helps you improve strategic decision-making by giving you a comprehensive overview of the aquaculture industry trends & startups that impact your company.

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 10 Aquaculture Trends

The recent trends in aquaculture is evolving to support efficient seafood production. Industry strategies now incorporate offshore and vertical aquaculture, which optimize space and limit land use.

Advanced fish farms and biofloc technology are enhancing water quality and fish health. Further, aquaponics systems integrate plant and fish cultivation to create closed-loop operations.

Genomics and selective breeding improve species resilience and growth rates, while precision aquaculture applies sensors and data analytics for real-time monitoring. These advancements make aquaculture ecosystems smarter and cleaner.

Global Startup Heat Map covers 530+ Aquaculture Industry Startups & Scaleups

The Global Startup Heat Map showcases the distribution of 530+ exemplary startups and scaleups analyzed using the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform. It highlights high startup activity in the USA and India, followed by Norway. From these, 20 promising startups are featured below, selected based on factors like founding year, location, and funding.

Want to Explore Aquaculture Innovations & Trends?

Top 10 Emerging Aquaculture Trends [2025 and Beyond]

1. Sustainable Seafood Production

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has set sustainability targets that require aquaculture production to increase by at least 75% by 2040 to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

This directive drives the industry’s Blue Transformation initiative. It focuses on expanding sustainable aquaculture to improve fisheries management and strengthen aquatic food value chains.

Aquaculture offers an alternative to wild fisheries and plays a role in global food security. Aquatic foods supply about 15% of global animal protein and exceed 50% in Asian and African countries.

Artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) combines real-time IoT sensor data with AI-driven analytics. These systems continuously monitor temperature, pH levels, oxygen content, and salinity. They allow farmers to make informed decisions that enhance production and reduce environmental impact.

eFishery, an Indonesian company, developed an IoT platform that enables fish and shrimp farmers to track feeding schedules with automated feeders.

Further, computer vision algorithms assess fish size and count to optimize feed amounts. YOLOv8 has achieved 94% precision on 3500 annotated images for Tilapia weight measurement.

Blockchain technology improves seafood traceability. Research by the Norwegian Seafood Council shows that 89% of consumers want more details about seafood origins and production methods.

Platforms such as IBM Food Trust and Provenance provide insights into sustainable practices that allows consumers to make informed choices.

Blockchain records seafood product lifecycles that include egg quality, water temperature, feeding patterns, and fish health. This timestamped, encrypted, and structured data promotes consistency in storage and builds consumer confidence.

Moreover, the global sustainable seafood market is expected to reach USD 12.37 billion in 2025 and grow to USD 15.43 billion by 2033, with a projected CAGR of 2.8% during this period.

Merall Bioproducts promotes Circular Economy

German startup Merall Bioproducts develops a closed-loop aquaculture system that produces crayfish meat, chitin, and bioplastics. It raises marbled crayfish in vertically integrated, antibiotic-free tanks to reduce water and energy use while maintaining full control over production.

The startup extracts chitin from crayfish shells using a proprietary method. This biopolymer supports applications in agriculture, cosmetics, and biomedical fields. It then converts chitin into biodegradable bioplastics that replace conventional oil-based plastics in packaging and consumer goods.

Merall Bioproducts eliminates waste and optimizes resource use. Its approach offers protein and renewable materials while addressing food security and environmental concerns through a circular economy model.

Sea Growth leverages Nutrient-rich Bioreactors

Icelandic startup Sea Growth cultivates seafood biomass using fish cells grown in nutrient-rich bioreactors powered by renewable energy. It selects cells from healthy fish in Icelandic waters and develops them into protein-rich biomass without relying on traditional fishing or aquaculture.

The startup collaborates with culinary developers to create seafood ingredients free from microplastics, pollutants, and ocean-borne pathogens. Its process maintains quality, scalability, and nutritional value similar to conventional fish while reducing strain on marine ecosystems.

Sea Growth builds a seafood supply chain that addresses overfishing, habitat loss, and climate challenges through cellular agriculture.

2. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS)

According to Spheric Research’s Land-based Aquaculture Report the land-based aquaculture sector expects the salmonid projects valued at USD 1.2 billion to come online this year.

By recycling water through biofiltration systems and utilizing less water than traditional fish farming techniques, RAS technology tackles water scarcity challenges. It continuously filters and recirculates the water within the system for water saving and lowering usage when compared to conventional approaches.

RAS plants reduce pollution by catching and cleaning waste before water is released. They keep fish from escaping and endangering wild populations, and allow production in land-efficient facilities near markets.

Further, biofiltration methods employ microbial communities that guarantee effective ammonia and nitrite breakdown. These methods further cleanse the water and create more sustainable closed-loop systems using denitrification processes. These turn nitrates into nitrogen gas.

Besides, the use of ultraviolet (UV) sterilization and ozone treatment enhances the quality of water. It removes pathogens and organic impurities. By creating a safer environment for aquatic life, these techniques lower death rates and disease outbreaks. To inactivate bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other pathogens, UV sterilizers are put in the water circulation loop of the RAS system.

Moreover, energy-efficient pumps and aerators used in contemporary RAS systems minimize electricity usage while preserving ideal water circulation and oxygenation levels. Additionally, energy-efficient pumps generate less heat to lower the need for extra cooling systems and regulating water temperature.

Credit: Insight Ace Analytic

Saga Aqua delivers RAS Products

Swedish startup Saga Aqua provides RAS for land-based fish farming, research, and aquarium use. It builds compact, scalable RAS modules such as the TinyDrum filter, which operates quietly and adjusts to different system sizes.

The system circulates and purifies water using biofilters, denitrification units, and drum filters to maintain fish health while reducing waste and conserving energy. The startup also incorporates self-cleaning larval tanks, artemia bioreactors, and mini-RAS setups to support small-scale and experimental projects.

Saga Aqua enables clients to establish aquaculture infrastructures without expanding to industrial levels. Its flexible system encourage decentralized fish farming while ensuring animal welfare and operational control.

KYTOS offers Microbiome Management for RAS

Belgian startup KYTOS analyzes microbiomes to provide insights that improve microbial health of the rearing water and biofilter of RAS. It uses fluorescent staining and laser-based scanning to examine microbial communities from water and soil samples.

Its AI engine quantifies more than ten health indicators from sample data. Users access the KytoApp dashboard to monitor microbiome conditions on the web or mobile.

The startup’s service programs include sampling tools, logistics, analysis, and expert interpretation. This reduces reliance on manual lab work. Weekly sampling captures microbiome dynamics while maintaining low measurement variance across pond depths to ensure consistent monitoring throughout the farming cycle.

KYTOS aids decision-making with detailed graphs, product application guidance, and timely risk identification. It allows clients to prevent losses and improve yield through precision microbial management.

3. Advanced Fish Farms

AI models allow farms to save time on management planning, deliver data-driven recommendations, and suggest environmentally friendly alternatives to enhance sustainability.

Computer vision devices continuously monitor larvae in large-scale crustacean farming, which offers real-time population estimates and optimizes management decisions.

Further, underwater cameras and sensors detect active feeding behavior and adjust feed distribution. These automated systems improve feed conversion ratios while reducing excess feed and its environmental impact. Timely and precise feeding schedules minimize waste and support healthy growth.

SeaSmart developed a patented wireless drone to monitor aquaculture cages. It measures oxygen, salinity, temperature, and light while generating a complete cage profile every hour. This method provides reliable insights into fish conditions across different depths.

Additionally, robotic harvesting and sorting systems use AI and computer vision to classify fish by size, weight, and species with precision. These automated systems accelerate processing and minimize fish stress to improve product quality while lowering labor demands.

Researchers at the National Innovation Center for Digital Fishery in Beijing introduced robotic fish to enhance aquaculture. Modeled after tuna and dolphins, these agents streamline fish farming operations. Initial prototypes patrolled 400-meter-diameter net cages in four hours, an improvement over manual inspections that took three to four days.

Also, XpertSea developed an AI-powered Growth Platform that allows shrimp farmers to track animal data frequently. It allows for identifying issues early, refining feeding schedules, predicting growth, and determining optimal harvest times.

Moreover, the automated aquaculture feeding systems market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2026 to 2033, reaching USD 2.5 billion by 2033.

Besides, the AI-powered fish farming market is expected to reach USD 605.06 million in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 12.78% to USD 1107.21 million by 2030.

Credit: 360iResearch

AquaTrack builds Fish Farm Management Tool

Nigerian startup AquaTrack offers a farm management system that digitizes aquaculture operations through a cloud platform. It replaces manual logs and spreadsheets by recording and organizing feeding schedules, water quality, fish growth, inventory, and financials.

The system applies AI-driven analysis to generate real-time recommendations on feed amounts, stocking densities, and water management strategies based on farm data. Its customizable dashboard offers clear visualizations and financial tracking tools, which allow farmers to monitor sales, expenses, and profitability.

Additionally, AquaTrack supports inventory control by tracking feed, medication, and equipment usage to prevent shortages. It protects data with encrypted cloud storage to ensure access across devices.

MAT-KULING advances Land-based Fish Farming

Norwegian startup MAT-KULING offers filtration equipment and engineering services for land-based fish farming. It manufactures and supplies protein skimmers, drum filters, degassing towers, UV and ozone disinfection units, and dissolved air flotation systems.

The startup oversees mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering from design to installation. It sources certified components from OEMs and integrates them with in-house systems to improve cost efficiency and performance.

Its cluster design allows farms to expand capacity without requiring system redesign. Freshwater and saltwater protein skimmers support brackish conditions with automated sludge removal and ozone injection.

MAT-KULING enables aquaculture producers to enhance yield, maintain system flexibility, and achieve sustainable operations through modular filtration solutions.

4. Precision Aquaculture

AI-enabled fish disease detection systems identify illnesses early on, before clinical symptoms appear.

By integrating many data sources, such as pictures, videos, and sensor data, these systems distinguish between various diseases with accuracy and dependability. Real-time monitoring allows for continuous surveillance for disease outbreaks. It analyzes data from underwater cameras or sensors to identify changes in fish behavior or environmental circumstances.

Imaging and computer vision technologies count fish, estimate size, and evaluate health factors in precision aquaculture applications. Additionally, advanced diagnostic technologies use methods like polymerase chain reaction to evaluate the health of fish populations.

For instance, Aquabyte created a platform that integrates edge processing, computer vision, machine learning (ML), and fish biology to provide fish farmers with vital value. The Aquabyte system creates data and insights on fish growth and welfare by using an underwater camera and image analysis.

Automated systems evaluate environmental data and distribute feed according to species and population dynamics. These systems with IoT technologies reduce the amount of manual labor required in fish farms. Critical factors like water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity are continuously monitored by smart sensors. This provides real-time data that enables operators to make timely, well-informed decisions.

Further, precision aquaculture systems use individual fish identification technologies for the non-invasive tracking of particular creatures throughout their lives. For instance, the automatic identification method records Atlantic salmon individuals based on the dot patterns on their skin.

The system has been tested on 328 individuals and has achieved 100% identification accuracy. The fish re-identification technology uses multi-view techniques to capture the visual properties of fish from various angles. It provides more accurate and exact fish features and increases the model’s resilience to changes in lighting, water flow, and settings.

Besides, precision aquaculture with digital twin technology combines real-time observations with predictive models to provide dynamics of fish farming.

At a CAGR of 14.8% from 2024 to 2030, the global precision aquaculture market is projected to reach a market value of USD 2549.3 million by 2033.

Credit: Dimension Market Research

Mode Labs develops Optical Microcavity Technology

UK-based startup Mode Labs builds optical microcavity-based chemical sensors for autonomous liquid analysis in remote and industrial settings. These micron-scaled quantum-engineered cavities trap and reflect light through a sample up to 10 000 times to enhance optical absorption and chemical specificity.

The platform reduces reagent and sample volume needs and improves power efficiency. It also extends sensor deployment duration to allow operation six times longer without maintenance.

The miniaturized sensors function autonomously and connect to cloud systems for real-time monitoring of analytes such as ammonia and phosphorus. They simplify complex chemistry and support scalable field deployment for plug-and-play use in aquaculture, wastewater treatment, and environmental monitoring.

Further, Mode Labs secures GBP 3 million investment to transform chemical sensing.

Nutricape makes Nano-encapsulation Technology

Indian startup Nutricape develops a nano-encapsulation platform to improve nutrient delivery and feed efficiency in aquaculture. It applies micron-scale encapsulation to protect bioactive compounds such as enzymes and micronutrients during processing. Also, it ensures controlled release in aquatic environments.

The technology enhances nutrient absorption, reduces leaching, and minimizes waste. It improves aquatic animal health by increasing bioavailability to support gut function and strengthen immune systems. This leads to better growth and survival rates.

Nutricape optimizes feed conversion ratios and reduces nutrient loss to lower feed usage and operational costs.

5. Offshore Aquaculture

The integration of offshore aquaculture with renewable energy systems, particularly offshore wind farms, is driving industry growth.

The OffWoff co-location project in Norway pairs offshore wind power with fish farming. It aims to produce 6000 tons of fish annually. Farms are placed between wind turbine platforms, with each setup containing 12 submerged cages.

Countries like China and Norway scale salmon farming using offshore platform technologies. Modern offshore designs incorporate materials that withstand strong currents, waves, and storms.

Offshore aquaculture provides advantages over coastal farming by utilizing open ocean spaces. Moving farms offshore reduces congestion and competition for space with coastal industries such as tourism, fishing, and conservation.

Besides, submersible cage technology allows aquaculture in unprotected waters while reducing biomass loss and financial risk. These cages protect fish from sea lice and algae blooms by positioning nets deeper than surface-level farms.

Companies like Badinotti Group introduced submersible systems such as Oceanis 1 and Oceanis 2. These models combine floating cage features with the stability of fully submerged positions.

Further, AKVA Group developed air dome technology for submersible Nautilus pens. The design ensures salmon fill their swim bladders without exposure to sea lice. Its self-righting structure provides a stable air pocket in challenging conditions to improve deep farming practices.

Moreover, researchers successfully tested a hybrid system that combines floating fish farming cages with wave energy converters (WECs). To show that this synergy is feasible and beneficial.

The offshore aquaculture market is expected to grow to USD 35.4 billion by 2033, with a projected CAGR of 7.0% from 2026 to 2033.

bluesonde builds Ocean Monitoring Solutions

US-based startup bluesonde makes a compact buoy for real-time ocean and water quality monitoring across industries. It integrates a solar-powered platform with a battery. Further, it features a sensing suite that measures temperature, conductivity, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and fluorometer levels. Also, long-term evolution (LTE), satellite, and bluetooth connectivity support remote data access.

The system applies anti-fouling technology to reduce biofouling, ensure long-term data accuracy, and lower maintenance needs. Its design allows quick deployment and integration with existing infrastructure for ocean research, water quality monitoring, and marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR).

bluesonde enables compliance through continuous, protocol-aligned data collection and provides validated inputs for scientific and operational models.

Stream Ocean enables Real-time Marine Life Monitoring

Swiss startup Stream Ocean manufactures an AI-powered underwater camera system for continuous biodiversity monitoring in marine ecosystems. It captures high definition (HD) video using solar-powered buoys or fixed underwater cameras. Further, it transmits data via LTE, satellite, or bluetooth to Sentinel, its cloud-based analytics platform.

Credit: Stream Ocean

The system uses automated ML models to detect, classify, and quantify marine species. It generates daily data points and provides real-time insights through an online dashboard.

Stream Ocean offers academically validated analysis and immersive visuals that enhance stakeholder engagement. Its technology informs decisions in conservation, restoration, aquaculture, and marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR).

6. Genomics and Selective Breeding

Aquaculture breeding advances with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) genome editing technology. It provides accurate, simple, and less expensive genetic alterations. The technology has been used on aquaculture species targeting characteristics like growth, disease resistance, reproduction, sterility, and coloration.

The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT) first introduced the commercial use of genome editing in aquaculture. They recently licensed their technique to Brazilian fish for use in tilapia breeding initiatives. According to trials, CAT’s genome editing technology increases tilapia yield by 45%, growth rates by 25%, and feed conversion ratios by 8% to 10%.

Besides, two CRISPR-edited fish species, tiger puffer and red sea bream, are approved and commercialized for commercial genome editing applications. Genome-wide markers such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) improve the precision of breeding values. This genomic selection changed aquaculture breeding. According to preliminary theoretical research, compared to conventional selection techniques, genomic selection produces greater rates of genetic gain, which is up to 10% for body weight.

The creation of high-density SNP arrays assists aquaculture species’ genome-scale genotyping. Together with Thermo Fisher Scientific, GenoMar created the first commercially available tilapia genotyping tool. It is an Applied Biosystems Axiom Onil50 array, which contains 58 000 SNPs from the tilapia genome.

Quantitative trait loci mapping allows finding genetic markers and potential genes linked to commercially significant features in aquaculture species. High-density genetic linkage maps, which are necessary for QTL studies, are currently created utilizing high-throughput sequencing technologies. For instance, they comprise specific length amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq), genotyping sequencing (GBS), and restriction site-related DNA sequencing (RAD-seq).

Further, the direct GBS methods support numerous developments in aquaculture genetics and breeding, with RAD-seq widely used to produce population-level SNP genotype data.

By the end of 2029, the aquaculture genetics and breeding market size is anticipated to reach USD 615.07 million, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2024 to 2029.

Credit: Research and Markets

HEDROS Biotechnology leverages Bacteriophages for Disease Control

US-based startup HEDROS Biotechnology creates a bacteriophage-based therapeutic platform to treat acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) and vibrio-related bacterial infections in shrimp aquaculture. It formulates specific phages that bind to and destroy pathogenic bacteria by injecting viral genetic material. This triggers targeted lysis while preserving beneficial microbes.

The startup uses its proprietary PhageChooser software to analyze regional strain profiles and select optimal phage combinations. AI-driven algorithms accelerate development cycles and improve treatment accuracy.

Each formulation undergoes rigorous testing to ensure environmental safety, antibiotic-free application, and compliance with regulatory standards. In vivo trials show up to a 90% reduction in shrimp mortality, and regulatory approval is in progress in key aquaculture markets.

Umami Bioworks produces Cultivated Seafood

Singaporean startup Umami Bioworks develops an ML-driven biotechnology platform to improve the development and production of cultivated seafood. Its ALKEMYST toolkit integrates computational biology, digital twin simulations, and data modeling to refine cell line development, media optimization, and process controls.

The platform selects fast-growing mesenchymal stem cell lines and reduces screening experiments by predicting texture, flavor, and nutritional outcomes. It also supports cross-species learning to accelerate product development while maintaining sensory profiles.

Umami Bioworks deploys a plug-and-play manufacturing system with automated process quality assurance (QA) and novel input components to lower production costs. Its approach supports hybrid and cultivated seafood products while promoting efficient R&D and consistent product quality.

7. Alternative Aquafeed Ingredients

The shift toward sustainable aquaculture and lower environmental impact is driving innovation in fish feed ingredients. Researchers develop replacements such as algae, plant protein, and insect feed to reduce reliance on traditional sea-based sources.

Currently, 90% of global fisheries are overfished or operating at maximum capacity, which makes them increasingly vulnerable to climate change.

Fishmeal and soybean-based feeds pose environmental and economic challenges, and prompt research into alternatives like kelp fly larvae and marine yeast. These ingredients offer high-quality proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. The industry recognizes that replacing fishmeal should not rely on wild fisheries, as species such as anchovy are already harvested at sustainable limits.

Additionally, food waste valorization gains traction. Researchers developed feed pellets using expired supermarket items such as rice, wheat, vegetables, fruit, and meat. Fermentation converts kitchen waste into aquatic feed. The trials indicate that substituting 15-30% of fishmeal with fermented waste improves growth performance and feed utilization.

The insect protein market emerges as a viable alternative for aquafeed. It is projected to reach USD 10.26 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 26.7% from 2025 to 2035. Black soldier fly larvae are a strong candidate to replace fishmeal due to their high nutrient content and lower environmental impact.

For instance, Innovafeed partnered with Cargill to develop and market insect meal for aquafeed. This collaboration will advance sustainable and efficient feed production. The company reports that its insect meal saves up to 16 000 tons of CO2 for every 10 000 tons of protein produced.

Also, MicroBioGen created a yeast-based protein from industrial side streams as a fishmeal substitute. Its marine yeast repurposes nutrient-rich brine from herring processing, a by-product typically discarded, to form a closed-loop system that enhances resource efficiency.

The microalgae sector replaces traditional fish oil. Veramaris, a joint venture between DSM and Evonik, developed the first aquaculture stewardship council-marine stewardship council (ASC-MSC)-certified microalgae oil for fish and shrimp feed. This marine algal oil provides a reliable omega-3 source while improving fish performance and reducing waste.

Moreover, the global aquafeed market is expected to grow from USD 71.28 billion in 2025 to USD 112.27 billion by 2032, with a projected CAGR of 6.71% during this period.

Credit: Fortune Business Insights

Enifer develops Mycoprotein

Finnish startup Enifer creates PEKILOAqua, a fungal-based mycoprotein for aquafeed. It ferments agro- and forest-industry by-products using Paecilomyces variotii. This produces biomass with 65% crude protein, 15% beta-glucans, and over 10% nucleotides.

The product supports gut health, immune activation, and growth in carnivorous species. It offers digestibility rates of 85% in Atlantic salmon, 88% in rainbow trout, and 92% for nucleotides. Trials with Nutreco, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE), and AquaBioTech confirm improvements in feed efficiency and growth for juvenile salmon, rainbow trout, and whiteleg shrimp.

Additionally, PEKILOAqua replaces soy protein concentrate without requiring extra land or water.

Kinsect builds BSF Nursery Systems

Italian startup Kinsect develops an automation platform for black soldier fly nurseries, improving insect protein production for aquaculture feed. It applies patented rearing methods and proprietary robotics to automate cage handling, egg collection, sanitization, and pupae management. Besides, controlled flight chambers maintain optimal temperature and humidity.

The system integrates modular K-Cages, programmable K-Light LED systems, and precision K-Hatching trays. Its AI-powered K-Brain software monitors biological and environmental parameters, predicts egg yields, and manages batch production cycles.

Kinsect achieves densities of 46 000 flies per cubic meter and produces 165-200 grams of eggs per cycle. Its spectral lighting optimization lowers energy costs and reduces non-productive cycles.

8. Vertical Aquaculture

By stacking production units vertically instead of horizontally, vertical aquaculture systems radically rethink the usage of space in fish farming. Vertical aquaculture projects seek to produce 1000 metric tons of shrimp annually in less than 5000 square meters in space-constrained environments like Singapore.

Vertical aquaculture monitoring and control systems leverage AI and IoT. IoT gives precise information on plant health and environmental conditions, which improves vertical farms’ sustainability, scalability, and efficiency. Humidity sensors regulate moisture levels essential to preserving optimal growth circumstances. Likewise, temperature sensors keep an eye on both air and water temperatures to guarantee ideal ranges for each species.

For instance, Vertical Oceans developed Intelligent Habitat (iHAB), fully autonomous, self-contained, and movable tanks. The iHAB adjusts to the smallest changes in the ecosystem.

Moreover, companies like Signify create underwater light-emitting diode (LED) lighting especially for fish farms with a marine focus. With up to 100 000 lumens, their underwater lights simulate the summer sun and increase feed conversion rates while lowering food expenses and illness risks.

Western Australia-based Aquatic AI developed a modular, automated vertical aquaculture system for the production of marron (freshwater crayfish). The traditional farms include a stocking rate of 3-4 marron per square meter in outdoor ponds. However, the company demonstrated that they successfully run 100+ marron per square meter in laboratory circumstances.

The market for vertical farming is projected to increase at a CAGR of 11.4% to reach USD 19.7 billion by 2034 during the forecast period 2025 to 2034.

Universal Aquaculture promotes Vertical Farming

Singaporean startup Universal Aquaculture develops an automated vertical farm that integrates fish cultivation and plant production in a closed-loop system. Water circulates between a fish tank and vertical grow beds, where nutrient-rich fish waste supports plant growth and plants purify the water for reuse.

The farm incorporates a Hybrid Biological Recirculating Aquaculture System to maximize efficiency. Its 0.28-hectare setup produces 300 tonnes of seafood annually. Operating in a controlled environment, it optimizes water, electricity, and land use while maintaining high-quality outputs.

Universal Aquaculture uses smart sensors and automated controls to monitor biological and environmental parameters, ensuring consistent operations. It manages the full supply chain, from SPF-grade broodstock in its hatchery to daily harvested live seafood free of antibiotics and additives.

Greenano Solutions builds Nanobubble Technology

Canadian startup Greenano Solutions offers nanobubble technology for vertical farms. Its systems inject ultra-fine gas bubbles, ranging from 50 to 500 nanometers, into water using devices that generate stable, negatively charged nanobubbles. These bubbles remain suspended due to Brownian motion.

The technology improves oxygen transfer efficiency, promotes biological activity, and enhances nutrient uptake. It also aids in removing suspended solids and contaminants through gas-liquid interactions.

The startup offers solutions such as the Hydroven series and ozone nanobubble generators for different inlet sizes and use cases, including fish farming, wastewater treatment, and fabric or skin cleansing.

9. Aquaponics

Aquaponics is gaining popularity in urban areas where space constraints and food security concerns drive demand for fresh, locally produced seafood and vegetables. The technology addresses urban food deserts while providing traceable and sustainably grown products.

Modern systems integrate digital humidity and temperature 11 (DHT11) sensors for temperature and humidity tracking, a high-conductance ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) for water level monitoring, and FC-28 for soil moisture control. These components connect to WeMos D1 Wi-Fi Uno-based ESP8266 microcontrollers, which process and store data in cloud systems. Applications like Blynk enable users to adjust system parameters remotely.

Smart automation reduces manual workload and ensures optimal growing conditions. Aquaponics uses media-filled beds, deep water culture (DWC), and nutrient film technique (NFT) systems tailored to different crops and climates. These methods improve nutrient uptake and space efficiency for both small-scale and commercial operations.

Further, enhanced biofilters convert fish waste into plant nutrients to support system balance and reduce environmental impact.

Go Smart, an Israeli startup, applies NVIDIA Jetson-powered AI to optimize oxygen levels, temperature, and feeding schedules in aquaponics. Its technology, adopted by aquafeed manufacturers like Skretting, reduces waste and improves fish health.

Aquaponics continues to attract investment. European funding examples include The Circle, a large aquaponic agricultural company that secured EUR 2.1 million from Opes Italia. It received an additional EUR 3.6 million to expand operations in Rome and Milan.

In the USA, the Department of Agriculture provides grants through programs such as the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program and the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program.

Further, the global aquaponics market is projected to grow from USD 1.20 billion in 2025 to USD 2.73 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 9.50% during this period.

Credit: Precedence Research

FarmModules creates Aquaponics IoT & Turn-key Farm Solutions

Czech Republic-based startup FarmModules makes a modular aquaponics system that integrates smart automation, vertical farming, and data analytics for sustainable food production.

Its technology uses IoT-powered sensors and cameras to monitor water quality, lighting, feeding, and environmental parameters in real time. Users control operations remotely and receive health alerts for timely intervention.

The system includes vertical aquaponic towers that grow up to 80 herbs, leafy greens, or strawberries per square meter. This makes it suitable for homes, restaurants, and schools. The startup also provides turnkey commercial farm setups for continuous organic cultivation with automated nutrient cycles and pH balancing.

The modular units are powered by solar energy, operate off-grid, and adapt to various locations and crops.

FarmHub builds an Aquaponic Tracking System

US-based startup FarmHub creates a data-driven automation platform for aquaponic and agricultural systems. It connects to wireless IoT sensors that track pH, temperature, humidity, and water quality. The startup transmits this data to a cloud dashboard for real-time analysis and visualization.

Users monitor system metrics, log activities, and automate routines using checklists and scheduled alerts. The platform allows integration of third-party sensors with minimal coding. It supports project tracking, historical data import, and mobile access, which enables farm management from any location.

Additionally, FarmHub provides daily email updates, calendar integration, and research libraries to support decision-making.

10. Biofloc Technology (BFT)

BFT uses beneficial microbial communities to convert waste products, including uneaten feed and fish excreta, into protein-rich biomass. This supports high stocking densities and requires minimal water exchange.

In India, the Department of Fisheries introduced subsidies last year to promote BFT and RAS adoption. These incentives encouraged smallholder farmers in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana to integrate biofloc systems. Producing 25-50 kg of fish per cubic meter, BFT enhances productivity in land-limited settings and provides opportunities for backyard and commercial farms.

Recent studies in Colombia show that combining photovoltaic (PV) solar panels with paddle-wheel aerators lowers energy costs, though it requires higher upfront investment. Solar-powered shrimp ponds yielded 4211.9 kg per cycle compared to 3921.4 kg in conventional systems. The increased output generated USD 14 741.65 in revenue versus USD 13 724.90, confirming the financial viability of solar-augmented BFT.

Further, effective biofloc formation depends on maintaining high carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratios. Adding carbohydrates like molasses, glucose, and rice bran encourages heterotrophic bacterial growth and improves ammonia assimilation and floc protein content.

Research indicates that tilapia raised in BFT grow up to 22% faster than those in recirculating systems. Crucian carp and olive flounder recorded growth increases of 71.8-319.9% and 26.3%, alongside lower feed-conversion ratios.

Biofloc applications extend to integrated multi-trophic and polyculture designs. Trials combining genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) and Pacific white shrimp under BFT conditions maintained stable water quality. They improved shrimp survival and enhanced digestive enzyme activity. These findings highlight the potential for efficient co-production systems that optimize resource use and reduce disease risks.

Moreover, Ocean Global manufactures durable polyvinyl chloride (PVC) biofloc tanks for small and large-scale BFT setups. Its modular designs and non-migratory liners support sustainable aquaculture expansion.

Biopron creates Probiotics & Microbial Nutrients

Mexican startup Biopron develops microbial biostimulants, antibiotics, and nutrient solutions for sustainable aquaculture. Its probiotic-based biostimulants use spores, lactobacilli, and cofactors to inhibit harmful bacteria like Vibrio species, and improve microbial balance and animal health.

The startup produces broad-spectrum antibiotics, including enrofloxacin, florfenicol, oxytetracycline, and norfloxacin, to treat vibriosis and hepatopancreatic necrosis in shrimp. It also offers multivitamins, dewormers, and hormonal modulators that strengthen immunity, support molting, and promote growth.

Biopron provides microbial digesters, activated carbon, bioavailable mineral complexes, and oxygen enhancers for water quality management. Its prophylactic agents, such as acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonium quaternary compounds, aid in disinfection and vector control.

HÅVA integrates Multitrophic Aquaculture

Swedish startup HÅVA builds a closed-loop shrimp farming system that integrates biofloc technology, multitrophic aquaculture, and renewable energy for land-based production. The system recirculates water through a microbiological ecosystem, where a heterotrophic biofloc community purifies water, controls pathogens, and provides a natural feed source.

The sensors and software monitor environmental parameters in real time. Modular farming units minimize shrimp stress by optimizing tank geometry and reducing fluctuations in conditions. The design supports the co-cultivation of species such as seaweed and salt-tolerant plants, repurposing waste streams, and improving system efficiency.

HÅVA eliminates antibiotics by using biocontrol mechanisms, where selected microorganisms suppress harmful bacteria and enhance shrimp health. Further, waste heat from nearby industries and renewable energy sources power the system and lower emissions.

Discover all Aquaculture Trends, Technologies & Startups

Aquaculture advances with innovations that extend beyond current practices. AI-powered ecosystem modeling, blockchain-based traceability, and marine algae integration for feed and CO₂ capture are becoming more prevalent.

Moreover, robotic aquafarm maintenance and bioremediation technologies are also gaining traction to further reduce environmental impact. These advancements will be crucial to creating a worldwide aquaculture system that is secure, scalable, and sustainable.

The Aquaculture Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation & startup scouting process. Identifying new opportunities & emerging technologies to implement into your business goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage.