Aquaculture feed compositions containing charcoal

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of aquaculture feed compositions, and specifically to the feeding and aquaculture of aquatic organisms, including fish such as sea bream and crustaceans such as shrimp. The invention provides an aquaculture feed composition in pellet form, the aquaculture feed composition having a specific size, containing a high weight percentage of protein, and including a carbon source. Results show that this aquaculture feed composition has different benefits than prior art aquaculture feed compositions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of aquaculture feed compositions, and specifically to the feeding and aquaculture of aquatic organisms, including fish such as sea bream and crustaceans such as shrimp. More specifically, this invention relates to aquaculture hatchery feed compositions suitable for feeding fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae. The invention provides aquaculture feed compositions in pellet form and having a specific size while containing a high weight percentage of protein and a carbon source. Background Technology

[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful for understanding the invention. This is not an admission that any information provided herein is prior art or related to the currently claimed invention, or that any specific or implied reference to any publication is prior art.

[0003] Aquaculture, also known as aquafarming, involves the cultivation of aquatic animals and plants, including algae. Aquaculture is a diversified and rapidly growing industry, and it is becoming a growth factor in the supply of protein sources for human consumption.

[0004] Hatcheries are facilities used for the artificial breeding, hatching, and rearing of animals, particularly fish and shrimp, throughout their early life stages. Hatcheries produce larval and juvenile fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, which can then be transferred to growth systems such as fish farms to reach harvest scale.

[0005] One of the challenges in aquaculture involves the high mortality rates frequently observed during the hatchery stage and rearing period. For example, it has been reported that over 50% of hatchery-raised juvenile marine fish may die in their early life stages. Reducing hatchery-raised juvenile mortality can increase total yields and lower aquaculture costs.

[0006] There is a continuing need for further improvements in aquaculture feed compositions. For example, it has been shown that in the case of feed pellets, vitamins and amino acids leach rapidly from the pellet into the water due to the pellet size. Improvements in aquaculture feeds designed for early life stages are expected to result in better availability of key nutrients and vitamins for animals, leading to reduced mortality, improved feed conversion ratios, and / or yields.

[0007] Many aquaculture feeds contain fishmeal and / or algae meal as important components. The growing demand for aquaculture feed, combined with the anticipated shortage of fishmeal and / or algae meal, is putting pressure on the future availability of sufficient, high-quality, and affordable feed. Therefore, it is important to develop feed compositions that rely on fishmeal and / or algae meal but reduce mortality and / or improve the yield of the aquatic animals being raised.

[0008] Finally, it is important that aquaculture feed compositions are not only of high quality for aquatic animals, but also that they can be processed by farmers in a manner that allows for the reliable and hygienic supply of aquaculture feed to the animals. Improved quality in aquaculture and biosecurity management is considered a crucial factor in reducing disease risk.

[0009] However, the development of such aquaculture feed compositions is hampered by the complex interplay between many different requirements for high-quality aquaculture feeds (nutritional and economic considerations, aquaculture, biosafety, biological and physiological considerations, and feed handling characteristics). This makes the development of aquaculture feed compositions a separate technical field with its own specific considerations and requirements, and this field can only benefit to a limited extent from the development of other fields such as terrestrial animal feed (livestock, pigs, and cattle).

[0010] Therefore, new products, compositions, methods, and uses for aquaculture feed compositions, particularly for feeding early-life fish (larvae) and shrimp (larvae), are highly desirable. In particular, there is a clear need in the art for reliable, efficient, and reproducible products, compositions, methods, and uses that can be used in the rearing of aquatic animals, particularly fish and crustaceans such as shrimp, especially in the rearing of larvae of such animals. Thus, it can be seen that the technical problem constituting the basis of this invention lies in providing such products, compositions, methods, and uses that meet any of the above-mentioned needs, particularly for the rearing of larvae of fish and / or shrimp. This technical problem is solved by the claims and the embodiments described below. Summary of the Invention

[0011] limited

[0012] This disclosure contains copyrighted material (such as, but not limited to, diagrams, photographs of apparatus, or any other aspect of this filing, for which copyright protection is available or may be available in any jurisdiction). The copyright holder does not object to any facsimile reproduction of the patent document or patent disclosure by any person as it is presented in the patent office's patent file or record, but otherwise retains all copyright in all circumstances.

[0013] Various terms used in the specification and claims relating to the compositions, methods, uses, and other aspects of the invention are applied. Unless otherwise stated, such terms should be given their ordinary meaning within the scope of this invention.

[0014] Other specifically defined terms should be interpreted in a manner consistent with the definitions provided herein. Although any methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein may be used in testing practices of the invention, preferred materials and methods are described herein. For the purposes of this invention, the following terms are defined below.

[0015] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein include plural references. For example, “a species of fish larva” or “a shrimp larva” means at least one or more species (e.g., 10, 100, 1,000, 10,000, 100,000, etc.) of fish larvae or shrimp larvae. In a similar manner, “a feed composition in pellet form” means at least one or more such pellets.

[0016] When referring to measurable values ​​such as quantity, size, etc., the term “about” is intended to cover a variation of ±20% or ±10%, more preferably ±5%, even more preferably ±1%, and still more preferably ±0.1% compared to a specified value, as such variation is suitable for the compositions provided herein.

[0017] As used herein, the term “and / or” means that one or more of the conditions may occur individually or in combination with at least one of the conditions, or in combination with all of the conditions.

[0018] As used herein, the term "aquaculture" refers to the cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic plants, and algae (larvae). In a preferred embodiment, the aquatic animal is a fish or crustacean such as a shrimp. Preferably, the aquatic animal is a larva, such as a fish larva or a shrimp larva.

[0019] Therefore, as used herein, the term "aquaculture feed composition" refers to a composition containing one or more nutrients, such as protein, carbohydrates (e.g., fiber and / or starch), fat, minerals, and vitamins, said nutrients intended to sustain the life of aquatic animals, particularly fish or shrimp, especially larvae of fish or shrimp. In the context of this invention, the aquaculture feed composition may also be referred to as "feed" or "composition," etc. The aquaculture feed composition must be suitable for feeding the aquatic organisms of this invention, particularly for feeding fish and / or shrimp, especially larvae of fish and / or shrimp. This includes feed compositions suitable for use in water in a manner that allows them to function as feed for aquatic animals. The aquaculture feed composition may be suitable as the sole feed for providing nutrition to aquatic animals, or it may be combined with other feeds or supplements, or live feed or artemia.

[0020] As used herein, the term “at least” means that specific value or more. For example, “at least 2 species” should be understood to be the same as “2 species or more species”, i.e., 2 species, 3 species, 4 species, 5 species, 6 species, 7 species, 8 species, 9 species, 10 species, 11 species, 12 species, 13 species, 14 species, 15 species, etc.

[0021] As used herein, the term "larva" or, in the plural "larvae," refers to various juvenile forms of an animal, whether aquatic, particularly fish or shrimp, before metamorphosis into an adult. Specifically, as used herein, "larva" refers to the juvenile forms of fish or crustaceans, such as crustacean larvae, e.g., shrimp larvae, or to planktonic fish, and more particularly, fish larvae. Those skilled in the art are familiar with the developmental cycles of fish and / or shrimp and can identify fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae.

[0022] As used herein, the term "pellets" is used interchangeably with the term "granules" and refers to particles comprising an aquaculture feed composition. In other words, the aquaculture feed composition is shaped into relatively large, formed clumps. Pellets can be obtained by compression techniques, and alternatively by, for example, extrusion and the additional use of a binder that holds the various components of the aquaculture feed composition together. The pellets themselves may also comprise smaller particles of the same or different sizes. Pellets can have any form; for example, they can be round, oval, square, or elongated (granular). For example, and in a preferred embodiment, pellets can be obtained by extrusion, i.e., by an extruder, in which a blend of materials is conveyed through a cylinder by the action of one or more rotating screws, then the material is pushed through one or more orifices and cut into smaller fractions. In other words, the pellets can be extruded pellets. If the method is carried out at a temperature above the boiling point of water, the pellets can be referred to as cook-extruded pellets.

[0023] As used herein, the terms “protein” or “crude protein” are interchangeable and refer to the amount of protein contained in an aquaculture feed composition. Crude protein depends on the nitrogen content of the feed protein, and crude protein measurement is common in the fields of animal husbandry and feed science. One well-known method commonly used in this field is the Kjeldahl method (see, for example, AOAC, 2000). In animal feed, crude protein is calculated as mineral nitrogen × 6.25 (assuming that the average nitrogen content of protein in a typical animal feed is 16%). Mineral nitrogen values ​​are obtained by the Kjeldahl method. Therefore, as used herein, “protein” or “crude protein” refers to the primary term for this nutrient, which can exist in a variety of different forms.

[0024] As used herein, the term "fat" includes compounds containing fatty acids, including but not limited to triglycerides, diglycerides, or monoglycerides of fatty acids, as well as free fatty acids, and their salts and esters. Those skilled in the art know how to determine the fat content of a composition. Preferably, the fat content of the compositions of the present invention is the fat content measured after acid hydrolysis, for example, by the methods described herein.

[0025] As used herein, the term "size" refers to a relative range of aquaculture feed compositions in the form of pellets / granules. Specifically, as used herein, "size" refers to a relative range of individual pellets / granules of the aquaculture feed composition. For example, a size of 500 micrometers or less refers to a pellet / granule having a maximum diameter of 500 micrometers or less. Where more than one type of pellet / granule is provided, preferably, a considerable portion of all pellets has a specified diameter, or a smaller diameter. For example, at least 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 30 wt%... 70 wt%, 75 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, 90 wt%, 95 wt% of the pellets have a specified diameter, or a smaller diameter. Methods for determining the diameter of pellets / granules are well known to those skilled in the art. A non-limiting example is the use of a sieve of suitable size and the collection of pellets passing through it.

[0026] When weight percentage (wt%) is mentioned herein, it is used to indicate a weight percentage based on the dry weight of the composition mentioned (i.e., excluding water content), unless otherwise indicated by the context. As those skilled in the art will understand, compositions according to the invention may contain water, for example, compositions according to the invention may contain about 3% to 14% water (based on the wet weight of the composition, i.e., based as is), for example, about 8% water (based on wet weight). Detailed Implementation

[0027] It is contemplated that any other aspect of the methods, uses, or compositions described herein may be implemented using any of the methods, uses, or compositions described herein. Any other aspect of the methods, uses, or compositions described herein may be employed in the context of the embodiments discussed in the context of the methods, uses, and / or compositions of the present invention. Therefore, embodiments relating to a method, use, or composition may also be applied to other methods, uses, and compositions of the present invention.

[0028] As implemented and broadly described herein, the present invention relates to the following unexpected discovery: that aquaculture feed compositions can be provided that substantially increase the survival rate of fish and / or shrimp during rearing, preferably the survival rate of fish and / or shrimp larvae. Furthermore, it has been unexpectedly discovered that, with said aquaculture feed compositions, a substantial increase in feed intake of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae can be achieved during developmental stages. In particular, an increase in survival rate (or a decrease in mortality) and / or an increase in feed intake can be observed compared to standard aquaculture feed compositions.

[0029] In the accompanying embodiments, it was unexpectedly found that, compared to standard aquaculture feed compositions, the survival rate of the larvae (fish or shrimp larvae) used in the experiments was improved at approximately days 15 to 25, for example, approximately days 20, 19, 18, or 17. Feed intake was also improved with the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention at approximately the same number of days after hatching of the larvae. Another interesting effect observed after feeding with charcoal was that it became much easier to distinguish whether the feed had been consumed. Real-time feeding comparisons showed even better results.

[0030] Furthermore, it was unexpectedly discovered that the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention possesses physical properties that make it particularly suitable for use as an aquaculture feed composition. The operation of the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention is substantially improved compared to the aforementioned standard aquaculture feed compositions.

[0031] For example, it was found that, compared to control feeds, despite the high (crude) protein content in the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention, foam formation, which typically occurs, was reduced. Furthermore, it was found that the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention (i.e., the aquaculture feed composition in pellet form as defined herein) can be released in a constant manner from the device used for feeding fish and / or shrimp, particularly larvae, and / or larvae. Compared to the aforementioned standard aquaculture feed compositions, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention also exhibits improved sieving; in other words, the pellets of the composition of the present invention exhibit improved free-flow characteristics and show substantially reduced clogging of the feeding device (i.e., the feeder). Moreover, it was found that the buoyancy of a charcoal-containing diet was altered compared to that of a comparable diet without charcoal. Therefore, the pellets of the composition of the present invention exhibit more particles floating at the surface of the water column. Particles at the bottom are not consumed by the larvae and are wasted for them, while particles at the surface eventually absorb sufficient water to slowly settle and become available in the water column. This will consistently produce a longer-lasting and continuous availability of particles in the water column.

[0032] This is also illustrated by examples and more in the embodiments provided herein.

[0033] Therefore, according to a first aspect, the present invention provides an aquaculture feed composition in pellet form, said pellet having a size of less than 500 micrometers, and said composition containing more than 60% by weight of protein (based on dry weight) and additionally containing carbon. The aquaculture feed composition is particularly suitable for feeding fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae.

[0034] The aquaculture feed composition of the present invention is provided in pellet form. Therefore, the pellet contains or is composed of the aquaculture feed composition.

[0035] As defined herein, the pellets have a size of less than about 500 micrometers (μm; for example, as determined using a sieve). Preferably, the pellet size is from 10 to 400 micrometers, 50 to 350 micrometers, or 100 to 300 micrometers. Pellets of this size are particularly suitable for feeding larvae of fish and / or shrimp.

[0036] In cases where more than one pellet comprising the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention is provided, preferably, a substantial portion of all such pellets has a specified diameter, or a smaller diameter. For example, in some embodiments, at least 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 30 wt%, ..., 70 wt%, 75 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, 90 wt%, and 95 wt% of the pellets have a specified diameter, or a smaller diameter. In some embodiments, more than 70 wt% of the pellets have a size in the range of 100 micrometers to 300 micrometers. For example, more than 70 wt% of the pellets may have a size between 0 and 100 micrometers, between 100 and 200 micrometers, and / or between 200 and 350 micrometers. Those skilled in the art will know how the size of the pellets of the present invention can be determined.

[0037] The aquaculture feed composition of the present invention contains more than 60% by weight of protein. The amount of protein in the aquaculture feed composition is not less than 60% by weight, for example, but not limited to about 60% by weight, 61% by weight, 62% by weight, 63% by weight, 65% by weight, 67.5% by weight, 70% by weight, 75% by weight, 70% by weight, 85% by weight, or 90% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains more than about 62% by weight of protein. More preferably, the composition contains less than about 85% by weight of protein, less than about 75% by weight of protein, or less than about 70% by weight of protein. Most preferably, the amount of protein in the aquaculture feed composition is from about 60% by weight to 67% by weight of protein.

[0038] The proteins used in the compositions of this invention can be any suitable type of protein. Those skilled in the art will understand that proteins can be used in the context of this invention. Non-limiting, but preferred examples of suitable protein sources in some embodiments include: marine proteins, such as fish meal, algae meal, and krill meal; plant proteins, such as soybean meal, rapeseed meal, wheat gluten, corn gluten, lupin meal, pea meal, sunflower seed meal, and rice meal; and slaughterhouse waste, such as blood meal, bone meal, feather meal, and chicken meal. By mixing different protein sources, a desired amino acid profile for use in feed can be achieved to a certain extent, the amino acid profile being suitable for the aquatic species for which the feed is intended.

[0039] The aquaculture feed composition of the present invention further comprises charcoal (also referred to as carbon or coal). Charcoal is a black carbon residue produced by exposing animal or plant material to a strong heat source. Charcoal is known to be used in many different applications, such as fuel, cosmetics, art, and purification purposes. Preferably, the charcoal used in the present invention is plant-based charcoal. Preferably, the charcoal used in the present invention is not activated carbon (activated coal). Preferably, the charcoal used in the present invention has a 75m³ content. 2 / g to 600m 2 Surface area between / g, preferably 150m² 2 / g to 300m 2 The surface area is between 10 micrometers and 200 micrometers. Preferably, the carbon used in this invention has a size between 10 micrometers and 200 micrometers. In the carbon source, preferably, at least 50 wt%, 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, or 90 wt% of the carbon has the surface area and / or size as disclosed herein.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the aquaculture feed composition comprises at least 0.1% by weight of char, at least 0.5% by weight of char, at least 1.0% by weight of char, at least 1.5% by weight of char, or at least 2.2% by weight of char. Preferably, the composition comprises less than 11% by weight of char or less than 8% by weight of char. For example, the composition comprises about 2% to 8% by weight of char, such as about 5% by weight of char.

[0041] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention comprises fat. A preferred embodiment of the invention is that the composition comprises less than 30% by weight of fat, preferably less than 27% by weight of fat, and even more preferably less than 25% by weight of fat. Preferably, the composition comprises between 5% and 22% by weight of fat, between 8% and 20% by weight of fat, between 10% and 15% by weight of fat, between 11% and 14% by weight of fat, for example, between 12% and 13% by weight of fat. Those skilled in the art know how to determine the fat content of a feed composition. For example, the fat content of a feed composition can be determined by method No. 160, NMKL. For example, a feed sample can be boiled in dilute hydrochloric acid to facilitate the digestion of proteins, release bound fats, and convert salts of fatty acids into free fatty acids. The digestion solution can then be filtered, and the fat in the filter can be extracted with ether after a drying process. The solvent can be evaporated, and the mass of the dried residue can be determined by gravimetric analysis. The fat content can be calculated from the difference between the initial sample weight and the sample weight at the end of the analysis. The fats used in the compositions of this invention can be any suitable type of fat. Those skilled in the art will understand what types of fats are suitable for use in the context of this invention. Non-limiting, but preferred examples of suitable fat sources in some embodiments include fish oil, microbial oil, algal oil, and / or vegetable oils such as rapeseed oil and soybean oil. As those skilled in the art will understand, such oils can also be present in powders (e.g., algal powder). By mixing different fats, a desired fatty acid profile in the feed can be achieved to a certain extent, suitable for the aquatic species for which the feed is intended.

[0042] In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention comprise phospholipids. Preferably, the composition comprises at least 5% by weight, preferably at least 7.5% by weight, and preferably at least 10% by weight of phospholipids. Phospholipids are nutrients commonly used in complete feed compositions for fish and / or shrimp (larvae) (see, for example, EP1171003). As a phospholipid source, lecithin of plant origin, such as soybean lecithin, or lecithin from other oilseed plants such as sunflower or rapeseed, can be used, for example. The term "lecithin" refers to a mixture of lipids in which phospholipids constitute more than 50% by weight of the total lipids. The most abundant classes of phospholipids in lecithin are phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol. Those skilled in the art know how to determine the phospholipid content in a feed composition. For example, by high resolution... 31The P-NMR spectroscopic method can be used to determine the phospholipid content in the feed compositions taught herein. This method is officially recognized by the International Lecithin and Phospholipid Society (ILPS) and the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCS).

[0043] Plant-based lecithin typically also contains C18 fatty acids (linoleic acid: 18:2n-6 and linolenic acid: 18:3n-3) from the essential fatty acid series n-3 and n-6, but generally does not contain C20 and C22 polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly arachidonic acid (20:4n-6), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3). C20 and C22 polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly arachidonic acid (20:4n-6), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n-3), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3), can be included in the aquaculture feed compositions of the present invention, for example, using non-plant-based lecithin as a source.

[0044] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention comprises starch. Preferably, the composition comprises less than 16% by weight of starch. More preferably, the composition comprises 0 to 10% by weight of starch. The starch used in the feed composition of the present invention is a chemical agent commonly used for binding, thickening, hardening, or gluing materials, for example, for binding materials together to form pellets of the present invention. The pellets of the aquaculture feed composition used herein may contain starch as a binder. Those skilled in the art know how to determine the starch content of a feed composition. For example, the method taught in NEN-ISO 15914:2004 can be used. This method is based on spectroscopy. First, soluble sugars are removed from the feed composition by extracting the feed with 40% ethanol. The starch is broken down into its glucose units using a mixture of 90% DMSO and an enzyme, starch glucosidase / trypsin. Subsequently, glucose is determined on a spectrophotometer using a specific glucose oxidase reaction kit. The starch content is then determined by multiplying the glucose content by a factor of 0.9.

[0045] The starch used in the compositions of this invention can be any suitable type of starch. Those skilled in the art will know what types of starch can be used in the context of this invention. Non-limiting but preferred examples of suitable starch sources in some embodiments include potatoes, wheat, cassava, and corn. The starch can be naturally occurring or can be a modified starch.

[0046] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention contains ash content ranging from no more than 1% to 28% by weight, preferably from 4% to 22% by weight. Those skilled in the art know how to determine the ash content of a feed composition. For example, the ash content can be determined by gravimetric analysis, such as based on NMKL Method No. 23, Third Edition, 1991. The percentage of ash can be determined based on the weight of the sample before combustion and how much ash (by weight) remains after the sample has been burned at 555°C for 17 hours.

[0047] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention comprises docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), preferably in the form of DHA-containing algal powder. Preferably, the composition comprises between 0.5% and 3.5% by weight of DHA and / or between 1.0% and 11.0% by weight of DHA-containing algal powder. DHA is an ω-3 fatty acid that can be directly derived from natural sources such as fish oil, algal oil, or powder.

[0048] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention comprises 6% to 12% by weight, for example 7% to 11% by weight, 8% to 10% by weight, or 9% to 10% by weight, water, on an as-is basis (i.e., based on the total weight of the feed composition).

[0049] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention is a complete feed composition, that is, in principle, providing all the necessary nutrients to sustain the life of the aquatic animals for which the composition is intended. However, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention may also be a non-complete feed composition, and may be combined with other feeds, for example.

[0050] In some embodiments, the aquaculture feed compositions taught herein comprise protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. Optionally, the aquaculture feed compositions taught herein further comprise antioxidants, attractants, immunostimulants, and / or pigments such as carotenoids, astaxanthin, etc.

[0051] A set of aquaculture feed compositions of the present invention is also provided, wherein the set of feed compositions comprises at least a first aquaculture feed composition and a second aquaculture feed composition, and wherein the pellets of the first aquaculture feed composition have a different size than the pellets of the second aquaculture feed composition. Optionally, the set of aquaculture feed compositions includes additional aquaculture feed compositions, wherein the pellets of the additional feed compositions have a different size than the other aquaculture feed compositions in the set. The first feed composition and the second (or additional) feed composition of the present invention may have the same composition (ingredients), or the composition may be different. For example, the pellets of the first aquaculture feed composition may have a size (as defined herein) that is smaller than, nearly equal to, or larger than the size of the pellets of the second aquaculture feed composition.

[0052] For example, at least 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 30 wt%, ..., 70 wt%, 75 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, 90 wt%, and 95 wt% of the first aquaculture feed composition have pellets with a size of less than 400 micrometers, for example, between 300 and 400 micrometers, and at least 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 30 wt%, ..., 70 wt%, 75 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, 90 wt%, and 95 wt% of the second aquaculture feed composition have pellets with a size of less than 300 micrometers, for example, between 200 and 500 micrometers. In one embodiment, the aquaculture feed composition kit comprises at least two or three aquaculture feed compositions of the present invention with different sizes, said aquaculture feed compositions being selected from: feed compositions wherein more than 70% by weight of pellets have a size between 0 and 100 micrometers; feed compositions wherein more than 70% by weight of pellets have a size between 100 and 200 micrometers; and feed compositions wherein more than 70% by weight of pellets have a size between 200 and 350 micrometers.

[0053] Those skilled in the art will understand that such kits of the aquaculture feed compositions of the present invention are particularly useful when raising aquatic animals, especially fish and / or shrimp, over time. Depending on the development of the aquatic animals, different sizes of the aquaculture feed compositions of the present invention can be used.

[0054] The aquaculture feed composition of the present invention can be used for any type of aquatic animal, preferably fish and / or shrimp. Preferred fish for which the composition of the present invention is provided include sea bass, sea bream, flounder, yellowtail (seriola), grouper, meagre, and snapper; preferred shrimp include Litopenaeus vannamei, Penaeus monodon, Penaeus japonicus, Penaeus merguiensis, Penaeus stylirostris, Penaeus indicus, Macrobrachium, and crabs.

[0055] Those skilled in the art will understand that, in addition to the ingredients disclosed above, the compositions of the present invention may also contain other ingredients and nutrients. Non-limiting examples of these include: minerals and vitamins; carotenoids such as beta-carotene, astaxanthin, and lutein; flavor compounds; stabilizers; antimicrobial peptides; antibiotics; additional polyunsaturated fatty acids; enzymes such as phytase; nucleotides; prebiotics and / or probiotics.

[0056] Also provided is a method for preparing, for example, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention, wherein the method comprises mixing different ingredients to obtain the aquaculture feed composition, and preparing the composition in pellet form.

[0057] Specifically, the method for preparing the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention includes mixing the components constituting the composition. Mixing can be performed by any suitable method known to those skilled in the art. After mixing the components of the composition of the present invention, the resulting composition can be shaped into pellets as defined herein by any suitable method known to those skilled in the art. For example, the aquaculture feed pellets of the present invention can be extruded pellets, and such extruded feed pellets can be prepared by the method of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that pellets of the present invention can also be provided by grinding pellets containing the composition of the present invention.

[0058] Provided are methods for feeding fish or shrimp, preferably juvenile fish or shrimp, wherein the method comprises feeding the fish and / or shrimp one or more aquaculture feed compositions comprising a total of more than 60% by weight of protein and additionally containing carbon, the feed composition of the present invention (i.e., the feed composition in pellet form), and / or a package of the aquaculture feed compositions of the present invention. Those skilled in the art know how to feed fish or shrimp (juveniles) the compositions of the present invention (i.e., the compositions in pellet form), for example, by using automatic or non-automatic feeders. Protein and carbon, as well as optionally present fats, carbohydrates such as starch, vitamins, minerals, etc., can be provided as a single aquaculture feed composition, as taught herein, or can be provided as two or more aquaculture feed compositions, one of which contains at least more than 60% by weight of protein (a portion thereof), and another of which contains at least carbon. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that protein can be included in more than one aquaculture feed composition, provided that the total diet provided to the fish (juveniles) or shrimp (juveniles) contains more than 60% by weight of protein. The same applies to carbon.

[0059] Also provided are the uses of the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention (i.e., the composition in pellet form), and kits of the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention for feeding fish and / or shrimp, preferably fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, and / or for improving feed intake, and / or for improving the survival rate of the fish and / or shrimp. The feed composition of the present invention can also be used as feed for fish and / or shrimp, preferably for fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, to prevent foam formation when said feed is introduced into water containing fish and / or shrimp, preferably fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, to be fed.

[0060] Finally, an aquaculture feed composition in pellet form is also provided, the pellets having a size of less than 500 micrometers, wherein the aquaculture feed composition in pellet form is obtained by mixing at least 60% by weight of crude protein and charcoal, and optionally other ingredients disclosed herein, preferably in the amounts disclosed herein, to obtain a non-pelletized composition of the present invention; and forming the obtained non-pelletized composition into pellets having a size of less than 500 micrometers. Uses of the compositions of the present invention thus obtained as disclosed herein are also provided.

[0061] A method for preparing aquaculture feed with improved free-flow properties is also described, the method comprising mixing an aquaculture feed composition containing more than 60% by weight of protein and additionally containing carbon, and forming said composition into pellets. Compared to known pellets, these pellets can form less dust and exhibit higher pellet uniformity, which improves free-flow properties and reduces clogging in the feeder.

[0062] The composition may contain at least 0.1% by weight of char, at least 0.5% by weight of char, at least 1.0% by weight of char, at least 1.5% by weight of char, or at least 2.2% by weight of char. The composition may contain less than 11% by weight of char or less than 8% by weight of char. The composition may contain more than 62% by weight of protein. The composition may contain less than 85% by weight of protein, less than 75% by weight of protein, or less than 70% by weight of protein. The composition may contain less than 27% by weight of fat. The composition may contain between 5% by weight and 22% by weight of fat or between 8% by weight and 20% by weight of fat. Each pellet may have a size of less than 500 micrometers.

[0063] A method for preparing aquaculture feed with reduced foam-forming properties is also described, the method comprising mixing an aquaculture feed composition containing more than 60% by weight of protein and additionally containing carbon, and forming the composition into pellets.

[0064] The composition may contain at least 0.1% by weight of char, at least 0.5% by weight of char, at least 1.0% by weight of char, at least 1.5% by weight of char, or at least 2.2% by weight of char. The composition may contain less than 11% by weight of char or less than 8% by weight of char. The composition may contain more than 62% by weight of protein. The composition may contain less than 85% by weight of protein, less than 75% by weight of protein, or less than 70% by weight of protein. The composition may contain less than 27% by weight of fat. The composition may contain between 5% and 22% by weight of fat or between 8% and 20% by weight of fat. Each pellet may have a size of less than 500 micrometers.

[0065] A method for preparing aquaculture feed with reduced settling velocity and / or settling time characteristics is also described, the method comprising mixing an aquaculture feed composition containing more than 60% by weight of protein and additionally containing carbon, and forming the composition into pellets.

[0066] The composition may contain at least 0.1% by weight of char, at least 0.5% by weight of char, at least 1.0% by weight of char, at least 1.5% by weight of char, or at least 2.2% by weight of char. The composition may contain less than 11% by weight of char or less than 8% by weight of char. The composition may contain more than 62% by weight of protein. The composition may contain less than 85% by weight of protein, less than 75% by weight of protein, or less than 70% by weight of protein. The composition may contain less than 27% by weight of fat. The composition may contain between 5% and 22% by weight of fat or between 8% and 20% by weight of fat. Each pellet may have a size of less than 500 micrometers.

[0067] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a method for improving the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, the method comprising the step of feeding the fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae with an aquaculture feed composition as taught herein. More specifically, this disclosure provides: methods for enhancing weaning flexibility in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; methods for improving water quality in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; and methods for simplifying operations in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, the methods comprising the step of feeding the fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae with an aquaculture feed composition as taught herein.

[0068] In one embodiment, this disclosure provides a method for increasing the survival rate of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; increasing the biomass production of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; increasing the feed intake of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, and / or the rate of feed intake of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; enhancing weaning flexibility, particularly in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; improving water quality, particularly in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; reducing the leaching of feed components into water, particularly in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; reducing the dust content in feed, particularly in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; and reducing foam formation, particularly in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae. The method includes the following: foam formation rate; reducing the load on surface skimmers, particularly in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; increasing the uniformity of feed distribution throughout the water, particularly in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; enhancing free-flow properties, particularly in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; reducing feed clogging in feeders, particularly in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; and improving the accuracy and consistency of feed delivery, particularly in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp, the method comprising the step of feeding juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp with an aquaculture feed composition as taught herein.

[0069] It will be understood that all the details, embodiments, and preferences discussed with respect to one aspect of the invention are equally applicable to any other aspect or embodiment of the invention, and therefore it is not necessary to describe all such details, embodiments, and preferences of all aspects separately.

[0070] The invention has now been generally described, and will be more readily understood by referring to the following embodiments, which are provided by way of example and are not intended to limit the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0071] Embodiments of the invention are further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0072] Figure 1 Survival rate and biomass of shrimp larvae fed with and without charcoal at PL12;

[0073] Figure 2 : Percentage of sea bream larvae with char-containing diet in their digestive tract compared to diets without char;

[0074] Figure 3The effect of charcoal-containing diets on the survival rate of juvenile sea bream;

[0075] Figure 4 The effect of charcoal-containing diets on foam formation;

[0076] Figure 5 : Cumulative feed agglomeration in grams. This graph shows the amount of feed that did not pass through the feeder. This graph is a composite graph of increasing feed particle size.

[0077] Figure 6 Improvement in size distribution (μm) during sieving due to carbon addition; and

[0078] Figure 7 The position of the pellet in the water column after 10 minutes.

[0079] Example

[0080] Example 1: Preparation of the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention. The components in Table 1 were ground to an average particle size of 150 micrometers and extruded into pellets of 2 mm. These pellets were then further crushed / granulated into smaller particles and sieved to the following corresponding sizes: size #0 (<100 μm), size #1 (100 μm to 200 μm), and size #2 (201 μm to 350 μm). Based on the total weight of the feed composition, the crude protein content of the finished feed was 62 ± 2% by weight. Based on the total weight of the feed composition, the fat content was 12 ± 2% by weight. Based on the total weight of the feed composition, the moisture content was 8% by weight.

[0081] Table 1: Examples of compositions containing fish oil, algae, and charcoal (expressed as % by weight based on the total weight of the feed composition (containing 8% by weight of moisture))

[0082]

[0083] Example 2: Feeds A and B, prepared in Example 1 for size grades <100 μm, 100 μm to 200 μm, and 201 μm to 350 μm, respectively, were manually fed 21 times / day to *Penaeus vannamei* during its developmental stages from zoea larvae, mysid larvae, and PL5. In addition to the feeds from Example 1, *Artemia* were fed 6 times / day from the mysid larval stage until PL12. Shrimp were harvested at PL12. The shrimp were cultured in 60L tanks at a density of 140 animals / L, with each treatment repeated 4 times. The diets were manually fed 21 times / day. Figure 1 The results show that significantly better survival rates and biomass yields were achieved at PL12 for diets supplemented with charcoal. Increased biomass yield allows for weaning flexibility.

[0084] Example 3: Testing of feed intake and survival rate of the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention in juvenile sea bream (Sparus aurata).

[0085] A sea bream trial was conducted in 400L tanks, repeated three times. The initial stocking density was 40 larvae / L, with 17-day-old larvae previously fed with rotifers. From day 18 to day 30, the larvae were fed rotifers and either diet C or diet D (C and D are similar to diets A and B of Example 1, respectively, except that the phospholipid content is 7% by weight instead of 4% by weight based on the total weight of the diet, and the starch / fiber content is reduced by 1% by weight, while the protein content is reduced by 2% by weight, both based on the total weight of the diet. Carbon is included in diet D at 2% by weight based on the total weight of the diet). The diets (sizes 0, 1, and 2) were dispensed using an automatic feeder. For diets C and D, the latter was adjusted to dispense the same total amount per hour.

[0086] Surprisingly, during the first feeding period, fish that ingested a diet supplemented with charcoal (diet D) showed a higher incidence of juveniles in their digestive system; that is, the number of juveniles ingested with diet D increased compared to diet C, especially at the beginning of feeding dry food. Figure 2 Surprisingly, throughout the entire duration of the test, juvenile fish fed with charcoal-containing diet D showed increased survival rates. Figure 3 (Compared to "carbon-free").

[0087] Example 4: A common problem known in the field of aquaculture feed compositions is that the high weight percentage of protein or crude protein in the composition causes considerable foam formation on the water surface, resulting in additional negative effects on fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae (juveniles) in the water column. Surprisingly, it has been found that feeding the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention does not cause, or only to a limited extent causes, foam formation on the water surface, despite the high weight percentage of protein in the feed. The applicant has found that adding a certain amount of the aquaculture feed composition according to the present invention to water in a reservoir where fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae are contained and cultured causes (virtually) no foam formation on the surface, thus eliminating the need for a skimmer at the water surface. For the composition of the present invention containing about 2.5% by weight of charcoal (carbon) (as is), and comparable compositions without added charcoal, in Figure 4The results are shown in the figure. Furthermore, the use of charcoal (e.g., plant-based charcoal) in the compositions of the present invention was found to have advantages in terms of sieving properties, resulting in feeds that are more uniform in size. It was found that feeds containing charcoal were less viscous and had higher free flowability in the feeder. This resulted in a higher output in terms of sieving capacity. Figure 5 It was also found that the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention improves the release amount of the aquaculture feed composition from the feeder in each feeding situation. It was found that, compared to the aforementioned standard aquaculture feed composition, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention causes less clogging of the feeder during feeding situations. In a particular embodiment, also illustrated by example in Table 2 below, the aquaculture feed composition (BD) of the present invention increases the feed dispensing amount from the feeder (i.e., the release amount (in grams) per feeding situation) by approximately 10% compared to a prior art but not according to the present invention aquaculture feed composition (control).

[0088] Table 2: Feed (size 100μm to 200μm) distribution from the feeder

[0089]

[0090] When used with an automated feeding device, the aquaculture feed composition of the present invention results in better and more consistent feed delivery. Compared to comparable diets without charcoal, the charcoal-containing diet causes less clogging and allows for a higher amount of feed released per feeding situation, i.e., allowing for increased and more consistent feeding. Furthermore, charcoal-containing juvenile feed was observed to be more uniformly dispersed throughout the water body. Analysis of particle size distribution showed a higher uniformity in size grades available to fish. In addition, the charcoal-containing diet contains significantly less dust and approximately 10% more particles available to fish (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6 The reduced dust content contributes to better water quality with less foam formation. Furthermore, diets containing charcoal showed reduced leaching of feed components into the water.

[0091] The charcoal in the compositions of this invention also affects the physical properties of the diet. Surprisingly, the buoyancy of the charcoal-containing diet was altered compared to comparable diets without charcoal. After 10 minutes of settling in a 1-meter-long cylindrical column, more particles of the charcoal-containing diet were present at the water surface. The non-charcoal-containing diet showed 15% of the particles at the bottom, while the charcoal-containing diet showed more particles floating at the surface of the water column (see [link]). Figure 7Particles at the bottom are not consumed by the larvae and are wasted for the larvae, while particles at the surface eventually absorb enough water to slowly settle and become available in the water column. This will always produce a continuous and longer-lasting availability of particles in the water column.

[0092] The invention has now been fully described, and those skilled in the art will understand that it can be practiced over a wide range of equivalent parameters, concentrations, and conditions without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention or without conducting excessive experimentation.

[0093] While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that further modifications are possible. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that generally follow the principles of the invention and include deviations from this disclosure that fall within known or customary practice in the field to which this invention pertains and are applicable to the essential features described above within the scope of the appended claims as follows.

[0094] All references cited in this document, including journal articles or abstracts, published or related patent applications, patents, or any other references, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, including all data, tables, figures, and text presented in the cited references. Furthermore, the entire contents of references cited within the references cited in this document are also incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0095] References to known method steps, conventional method steps, known methods, or conventional methods are not intended to acknowledge in any way that any aspect, description, or embodiment of the invention has been disclosed, taught, or implied in the relevant art.

[0096] The prior description of specific embodiments will fully reveal the general nature of the invention, such that others can readily modify and / or adapt various applications of such specific embodiments by applying knowledge within the art, including the references cited herein, without excessive experimentation and without departing from the overall concept of the invention. Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance presented herein, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the terms or terminology used herein are for descriptive and not limiting purposes, and that the terminology or terminology of this specification will be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on the combination of the teachings and guidance presented herein and the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aquaculture feed composition in pellet form for feeding larvae of fish or shrimp, said pellet having a size of less than 500 micrometers, and said composition containing more than 60% by weight of protein and additionally containing carbon.

2. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition contains at least 0.1% by weight of char.

3. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition contains less than 11% by weight of char.

4. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition contains more than 62% by weight of protein.

5. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition contains less than 85% by weight of protein.

6. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition contains less than 27% by weight of fat.

7. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises 5% to 22% by weight of fat.

8. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition contains at least 4% by weight of phospholipids.

9. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises less than 16% by weight of starch.

10. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises 0 to 10% by weight of starch.

11. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises 1% to 28% by weight of ash.

12. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises DHA.

13. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises DHA in the form of DHA-containing algal powder.

14. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 12, wherein the composition comprises 0.5% to 3.5% by weight of DHA.

15. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 13, wherein the composition comprises 1.0% to 11.0% by weight of DHA-containing algal powder.

16. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition further comprises defatted fishmeal.

17. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises defatted fish meal and DHA-containing algae meal.

18. The aquaculture feed composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition is a complete feed composition.

19. A kit comprising the aquaculture feed composition of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the kit comprises at least a first aquaculture feed composition and a second aquaculture feed composition, and wherein the particles of the first aquaculture feed composition have a different size than the particles of the second aquaculture feed composition.

20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the kit comprises an additional aquaculture feed composition, wherein the pellets of the additional feed composition have a different size than the other aquaculture feed compositions in the kit.

21. A method for preparing an aquaculture feed composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the method comprises mixing different ingredients to obtain the aquaculture feed composition, and preparing the composition in granular form.

22. A method for feeding fish larvae or shrimp larvae for non-therapeutic purposes, wherein the method comprises providing the fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae with: one or more aquaculture feed compositions in the form of particles having a size of less than 500 micrometers and containing a total of more than 60% by weight of protein and additionally containing carbon; a feed composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18; or a kit according to claim 19 or 20.

23. The use of the aquaculture feed composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18 or the kit according to claim 19 or 20 for non-therapeutic purposes, for feeding fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, and / or for improving feed intake of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae.

24. The aquaculture feed composition in pellet form according to claim 1, wherein the pellets have a size of less than 500 micrometers, and wherein the aquaculture feed composition in pellet form is obtained by mixing at least 60% by weight of protein and charcoal to obtain a non-pellet composition, and forming the obtained non-pellet composition into pellets having a size of less than 500 micrometers.

25. The aquaculture feed composition in pellet form according to claim 24, wherein the aquaculture feed composition in pellet form is obtained by mixing at least 60% by weight of protein and charcoal, and other ingredients, wherein the other ingredients include: Minerals, vitamins, carotenoids, flavor compounds, stabilizers, antimicrobial peptides, antibiotics, additional polyunsaturated fatty acids, enzymes, nucleotides, prebiotics, and / or probiotics.

26. A method for non-therapeutic purposes, said non-therapeutic method being used for - Increase biomass production of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; - Increase the feed intake of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae, and / or the rate of feed intake of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; -Enhance weaning flexibility in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; - Improve water quality in the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; reduce the leaching of feed components into the water during the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; - Reduce the dust content in feed for juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; - Reduce foam formation during the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; - Reduce the load on surface skimmers in the feeding of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; -Increase the uniformity of feed distribution throughout the water during the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; - Enhance the free-flowing properties during the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae; - Reduce feed blockage in feeders during the rearing of juvenile fish and / or juvenile shrimp; and - Improve the accuracy and consistency of feed delivery in the rearing of fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae. The method includes the step of feeding fish larvae and / or shrimp larvae with the aquaculture feed composition according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

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