Science is the star at Aquaculture Europe

Scientists, students, and fish farming suppliers have been gathering in Valencia this week for the annual conference of the European Aquaculture Society.

There were 597 oral presentations in 57 sessions covering a wide range of subjects ranging from allocating space for aquaculture, to light and aquatic organisms, health and welfare management, molluscs and other shellfish, aquaponics, and conservation and restoration.

Fish nutrition was also well covered, with speakers focusing on both functional ingredients and digestibility and sustainability. Talks included a report on a phytogenic feed ingredient made from essential oils, and which was seen to reduce sea lice attachment to Atlantic salmon by 70% in controlled trials at Stirling University’s research centre at Machrihanish in western Scotland.

The event has been centred on the Valencia Conference Centre, but some talks and many of the 155 booths at the accompanying trade show were accommodated in neighbouring hotels.

There were 3,115 attendees from countries. They included 381 students.

Organisers received 1,254 abstracts, and 571 e-posters.

Hundreds of attendees enjoyed a president’s reception at the Valencia Science Museum yesterday evening.