BioMar expands R&D in Denmark to advance feed for emerging aquaculture species

DENMARK – BioMar is expanding research and development activities at its Aquaculture Technology Centre in Hirtshals to support feed innovation for new aquaculture species, as global production diversifies beyond traditional fish.

The move focuses on strengthening scientific capabilities to develop species-specific nutrition for high-growth markets, particularly for yellowtail kingfish and barramundi.

As aquaculture expands geographically and biologically, feed requirements are becoming more complex, with producers needing tailored formulations adapted to different species, farming systems and environmental conditions.

“Expanding into new species is a natural step as aquaculture continues to evolve,” said Simon Wadsworth, Global R&D Director at BioMar. 

“Our role is to generate the scientific knowledge needed to support farmers with reliable, well-documented nutritional solutions adapted to each species and production environment.”

Feed innovation critical as aquaculture diversifies

BioMar’s Aquaculture Technology Centre in Hirtshals is one of Europe’s most advanced research facilities, featuring 15 experimental trial units, 27 recirculating aquaculture systems and more than 350 tanks. 

The site enables controlled testing across multiple species and life stages, from hatchery to grow-out.

The company has historically focused on species such as salmon, trout, seabass and seabream, building more than 20 years of nutritional data and feed performance insights. 

This foundation is now being extended to warm-water species, reflecting shifting global production trends.

Barramundi, in particular, is emerging as a priority due to its commercial potential in Asia and Australia.

BioMar said upcoming research will focus on feeding strategies, biological performance and predictive modelling to improve feed efficiency and farm outcomes.

“For BioMar Australia, barramundi and yellowtail kingfish are two of the most promising species in Australian aquaculture,” said David Whyte, Managing Director of BioMar Australia. 

“They are central to the growth of the country’s warm-temperate and tropical sector and we need to support the fishes nutritional requirements under Australia’s range of production systems and environments.”

The expansion reflects a broader industry shift. Global aquaculture is increasingly moving toward high-value, region-specific species, driving demand for more specialised aquafeed formulations. 

Feed remains the highest cost in aquaculture production, often accounting for 70% of total costs, making precision nutrition a key lever for profitability.

By expanding its R&D scope, BioMar aims to translate scientific insights from Hirtshals into commercial feed solutions across its global markets, supporting producers with improved performance, efficiency and sustainability.

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