Advancements of application of microalgae biotechnology in the aquaculture water quality control

Abstract

Fish is a vital source of animal proteins for food and feed. However, large-scale aquaculture generates a large amount of wastewater and causes environmental water pollution. Microalgae biotechnology as a promising way to treat wastewaters has been extensively studied in the past decades. This chapter discusses progress in the development and application of microalgae biotechnology for aquaculture water quality control and bioenergy production. The benefits and mechanisms of microalgae in water quality control and key factors affecting microalgal growth and aquaculture water quality are reviewed. Moreover, the challenges of microalgae-based aquaculture wastewater treatment in the large-scale application, including inadequate treatment, costly microalgae harvesting, and lack of technical and environmental evaluation studies, are discussed. Finally, some potential strategies and suggestions for future research are proposed. It is expected that this chapter will provide important references for the application of microalgae biotechnology in aquaculture and promote the sustainable development of environmentally friendly aquaculture.