North central Gulf of America, integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) demonstration, research, training, and outreach

Abstract

The Gulf of America Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) Demonstration Project is a federally funded, state-led pilot designed to show that sustainable, nearshore aquaculture is achievable, scalable, and environmentally responsible in the northern Gulf. This project addresses the growing domestic and global demand for seafood while supporting U.S. food production and security goals, coastal economies and workforce development.

Objectives

• Demonstrate responsible nearshore aquaculture at a manageable scale
• Support federal and state goals for domestic seafood production
• Provide real-world data to inform future permitting decisions
• Build a trained workforce and new economic opportunities for coastal communities

Methodology

Multiple aquaculture species are grown together in a way that mimics natural processes related to the “trophic” level of the three species. Trophic level refers to the process in which each species gets food and energy. 

• Red drum (finfish) are the primary species. They are provided with a diet of sinking feed pellets and produce excess particulate matter and nutrients.
• Eastern oysters are filter feeders that take up particulates from the fish feed.
• Gracilaria seaweed (algae) take up nutrients produced by the fish. 

This integration of the multi-trophic grow-out reduces excess nutrients while producing multiple marketable seafood products. The floating AquaFort platform (56 feet by 28 feet) contains two fish pen bays and is designed to produce up to 6-7 tons of fish and shellfish per season. The platform will operate seasonally from fall to early summer and will be towed inshore for the duration of each hurricane season