University of Minho researchers present advances in DNA Barcoding at the International Conference, in Belém, Brazil

The University of Minho, co-promoter of SP1b of the Algae Vertical project, represented by a team of researchers, took part in another edition of the International Conference on the Barcode of Life, which took place in Belém of Pará, Brazil, from 3 to 6 September 2024.
The work emphasised the use of advanced DNA analysis techniques to monitor marine macrozoobenthos and assess how integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems can contribute to the bioremediation and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.
The event, organized by the iBOL Consortium in collaboration with the Vale Institute of Technology, offers a unique opportunity to exchange and disseminate cutting-edge scientific knowledge on the latest advances in DNA barcoding and metabarcoding for species identification.

Innovation in Aquaculture: SP5 Promoters Highlight Microalgae Diets at AQUA24 in Copenhagen

SP5 – Aquaculture Feeds was present at the AQUA24 World Aquaculture Society Meetings, which took place from 26 to 30 August in Copenhagen, Denmark. Co-organizers Sparos, CIIMAR, CCMAR, GreenCoLab and S2AquaColab highlighted their innovative work on microalgae-based diets to increase the robustness and immunity of larvae and juveniles during times of stress.
There was also a presentation by researcher Rodrigo Mendes, from CCMAR/SPAROS, who discussed the impact of biological feeding on the performance and robustness of juvenile gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata).
The AQUA event, co-organized by the European Aquaculture Society (EAS) and the World Aquaculture Society (WAS), is one of the main platforms for exploring the latest advances in research and innovation in the aquaculture sector.

 

Necton installs SANI membranes to improve microalgae harvesting

Harvesting is a fundamental stage in the production of microalgae. As part of  Necton’s Demonstration Unit, under sub-project SP1a of the AlgaeVertical project, SANI membranes have been installed and are operational. The main objective of this new infrastructure is to pre-concentrate microalgae cultures before centrifugation, reducing dehydration time and consequently improving production efficiency.

The company is pleased with this acquisition, as the amount of biomass harvested daily at Necton’s facilities has increased significantly.

Necton at the forefront of sustainable microalgae production

Necton, leader of sub-project 1a, has installed an advanced refrigeration system. This system is part of the DEMO “more efficient and sustainable production”, which uses a chiller connected to heat exchangers to cool microalgae cultures in tubular photobioreactors when temperatures are high, avoiding the use of fresh water, a very scarce resource in the Algarve. In addition, the entire system is powered by solar energy, thus promoting more sustainable and efficient production.

This DEMO is part of a total of three that will be implemented as part of Algae Vertical’s SP1a sub-project.

CIIMAR is part of the ICNPR2024 panel in Kraków, Poland

Researchers from CIIMAR took part in the International Congress on Natural Products (ICNPR2024) held in Kraków, Poland, from 13 to 17 July. As part of sub-project 1a, they presented  “Novel health potential of isomers of 132-hydroxypheophytin a from Arthrospira platensis“, a presentation that identifies the most bioactive compounds in Spirulina for obesity.

The congress brought together experts and researchers from all over the world to share their latest discoveries and debate the latest developments in natural products research.

90 seconds of science – Podcast – Antena 1 | Hugo Pereira of GreenCoLab explains the mission of Algae Vertical

Hugo Pereira General Manager of GreenCoLab, a collaborative laboratory located at the University of Algarve, which is part of several Algae Vertical sub-projects, explained the mission of this innovative project in the algae industry, on Antena 1 – RTP  “90 seconds of science” podcast. The episode entitled “At the University of the Algarve, a group of researchers is trying to valorise the algae sector by improving its sustainability” is available here.

Transversal | ISAP – 8º Congress of the International Society for Applied Phycology

From 16 to 21 June, the 8th Congress of the International Society of Applied Physiology (ISAP) took place in Porto This year’s theme was “Algae 2030: Opportunities and Challenges”, and the Algae Vertical project was represented by several sub-project co-promoters, including GreenCoLAb, the University of Aveiro, ALGAplus, the University of Minho, CIIMAR and CCMAR. During the event, several posters and presentations showcasing the work carried out under the Algae Vertical project were highlighted. Algae Vertical presented significant results related to the production of micro and macroalgae, microbiome, biorefinery, among other topics.

The ISAP congress is an essential platform for researchers and students in the field of algae, providing a favourable environment for participation in forums, thematic discussions, the exchange of ideas and the creation of new networks, which are fundamental for the future of the participants.

 

University of Minho at the International Conference on Algal Biomass, Biofuels and Bioproducts (AlgalBB), Florida

The International Conference on Algae Biomass, Biofuels and Bioproducts (AlgalBB) took place in Florida, from 10 to 12 June, and the University of Minho represented SP1a with a presentation on Pavlova gyrans. Entitled “Pavlova gyrans as a promising and sustainable source of carotenoids – optimisation of the main growth parameters”, this presentation highlighted the value of microalgae as a source of bioactive compounds.

In 2024, the conference addressed emerging technologies in algae research, including microalgae, macroalgae and cyanobacteria. Topics included synthetic biology, molecular biotechnology, biomass production, cultivation, harvesting, extraction and biorefinery.

 

Vertical Algae Featured in Voz do Campo Magazine

Algae Vertical Partners Featured in Latest Issue of Voz do Campo Magazine

In the June edition of Voz do Campo magazine, various partners in the Algae Vertical project were invited to contribute their knowledge and experience. This highlight reinforces the importance of collaboration between institutions for the valorisation of algae in the agricultural sector, among others.

GreenCoLab

GreenCoLab, a collaborative association focused on algae research and valorisation, presented its advances in the creation of biofertilisers, biostimulants and biopesticides. These solutions are promising alternatives to traditional agrochemicals, promoting more sustainable and resilient agriculture. Read the article here.

PROALGA

PROALGA participated with an article entitled ‘Portugal is moving towards becoming a global reference in the algae sector.’ The article emphasizes how Portugal stands out for its innovation in the sector, with pioneering companies such as Necton, ALGAplus, Allmicroalgae and Iberagar, as well as artisanal Spirulina producers. Read the article here.

InnovPlantProtect & Necton

IPP, in co-authorship with Necton, highlighted the development of algae-based soil microbiota bioprotectors and modulators. These products aim to increase the sustainability of agricultural production, reducing environmental impact and improving soil and plant health. Read the article here.

The collaboration between these partners demonstrates the potential of algae to transform diverse sectors, from agriculture to food and beyond. For more information on the contributions of Algae Vertical’s partners, visit our website.

 

Nordic algae Symposium – ISA

Anabela Raimundo from the University of Lisbon’s Instituto Superior de Agronomia, was one of the speakers at the Nordic Algae Symposium, in Copenhagen.

The presentation, entitled “Food and Feed for the future: the role of microalgae as a sustainable ingredient”, focused on the importance of alternative food sources, with microalgae playing a crucial role. Climate change, the increase in the world’s population and the transition from domestic to large-scale consumption involve a number of strategies. This paper presents case studies of these strategies that show the impact of microalgae on the nutritional profile, texture and appearance of food.