Expected Outcome:

This call aims to broaden the portfolio of aquaculture by increasing the diversity of farmed aquatic species, with a strong emphasis on low-trophic organisms such as algae, shellfish, and herbivorous fish. These species typically require minimal or no feed input, which contributes significantly to lowering the environmental footprint of aquaculture operations. Successful projects are expected to promote sustainable feed solutions by integrating circular practices, including the use of food waste and by-products, and sourcing feed ingredients locally or regionally. Environmental impact assessments, such as life cycle analyses and Environmental Footprint methods, are essential components of these solutions.

Furthermore, the call encourages innovation in aquaculture production systems, particularly through integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) and organic systems that prioritize animal health, welfare, and effective breeding strategies. 

An important outcome is to enhance consumer acceptance and the market visibility of lesser-known species—like algae—by addressing issues of fair pricing, regulatory barriers, and public perception.

Scope:

The scope of this topic includes all possible edible aquatic organisms with preference for low-trophic species which, in the frame of this topic, are photosynthetic or herbivorous or un-fed species. There is also preference for fish farming that relies on feed ingredients low in fish meal and oil and/or produced in the region where the farm is situated or in neighbouring to the farm regions, as well as feed ingredients derived from circular practices, such as, the use of wastes or by-products.

In total, two projects will be funded, with the European Union providing the funding.

Budget per project: Around € 6.000.000,00

Call deadline:  16 September 2025, 17.00 CET

Funding rate 

• IA: 70% (100% non-profit) - TRL 7