Abstract

An integrated recirculation aquaculture system (RAS) was designed and developed using bacteria, echinoderms (Athyonidium chilensis), and mollusks (Mytilus chilensis) to maintain water quality. Photovoltaic panels were employed to reduce the energy costs of the crop. The evaluation of survival and growth of adults (2-month olds) and juveniles (7-month olds) of Seriola lalandi fish, fed with commercial pellets, was carried out. Different water parameters (temperature, humidity, irradiance, oxygen, pH, ammonium, nitrite, nitrate, etc.) were recorded. The distribution of trophic levels maintained the quality of the water in the system. The photovoltaic panels allowed autonomy of 4 h of disconnection from the electrical network. The weight gain was optimal in adults for the species (initial 1496 g, final 1698 g) and juveniles (initial 24 g, final 588 g). The survival of 100% of adults and 39% of juveniles was documented. The analysis of the fillet helped ascertain its quality for human consumption. This cultivation system depended only on a reservoir to supply water. Operating the system does not require highly specialized personnel and the use of biofilters/ photovoltaic panels reduces operating costs. Finally, the production of commercially important marine organisms in efficient and sustainable cultivation systems may help solve global challenges such as the availability of food.