Bioled leads the way in global photoperiod systems

In early June, executives from Bioled participated in two activities in the United States. Dr. Ana Fernández, R&D Deputy Manager, Dr. Vanessa Mella, Commercial Manager, and Mario Navarro, Director of the photoperiod company, began their tour by visiting the IMET facilities at the University of Maryland and then participated with a stand at the RAStech 2024 fair and conference.

In conversation with LandbasedAQ, Dr. Ana Fernández commented on Bioled's presence at the technology fair applied in recirculation systems, highlighting that this event was aimed at salmon producers and other species that are cultivated in recirculation systems, in addition to the presentation of scientific talks related to the latest advances in technology, operation, and the development of new projects.

“In this context, the reason for participating was to connect with our current clients, prospect, and learn about the latest RAS developments, the main industry challenges, the results of scientific studies related to photoperiod, welfare, productive efficiency, among others. Being aware of the latest advances or knowledge allows us to define the type of technical support our current and future clients need,” the professional specified.

What innovations is Bioled developing for RAS?

Bioled is currently developing a sensor that allows monitoring irradiance in real time and adjusting it automatically. This means that the light intensity will remain constant regardless of the water transparency and the cultivation density, which are the most critical factors affecting it. We are now in the stage of productive validation of our development before starting the commercial validation. This innovation is especially useful for RAS systems due to their cultivation characteristics and will also provide them with significant energy savings.

How is the photoperiod market prospected towards other salmon-producing countries?

Artificial photoperiod is a technique widely used in various farming units and stages, it is a validated technique that is only set to expand. According to our market studies, our products and services are very favorably prospected in this context. An example of this is that Bioled has positioned itself very well in the North American market and we have consolidated our commercial relationships with two important projects in the USA and Canada.

According to your research, what impact does the photoperiod have at this productive stage of the fish?

The use of artificial photoperiod offers many advantages. According to our research and various studies, manipulating the photoperiod increases the growth rate in salmon through stimulating appetite and activity, resulting in higher food intake and, consequently, faster growth. This reduces fattening cycles and improves production efficiency. Additionally, adjusting the photoperiod is used to inhibit sexual maturation, allowing the fish to complete the production cycle with better fillet quality. On the other hand, in breeding programs, the photoperiod is adjusted to synchronize maturity and egg laying, thus facilitating the management of reproduction and fry production. In other words, photoperiod manipulation is used at various stages of salmon farming and for different purposes. It is an easy-to-apply, automatable technique that involves a highly sensitive element for fish, which are the light hours.

What are the challenges presented by this production system and how do they challenge you as suppliers?

Full cycle RAS systems present several challenges, many of which are still unresolved. Regarding sexual maturation, although it has decreased with the use of photoperiod, it is still at high levels not seen in sea water cultures, in cages. This is a challenge that must be addressed from different perspectives. Regarding the photoperiod, we are working with specific irradiances, spectra, and precise light hour strategies. The other major challenge, which affects not only us but the industry, is energy efficiency. In this regard, we are taking a step forward with the development of the compensatory mechanism sensor that will represent a significant contribution to the RAS centers.