Review Article
Advances in Bioreactor Technologies for Sustainable Aquaculture Water Treatment
Alebachew Molla*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
92-98
Received:
2 September 2025
Accepted:
13 September 2025
Published:
9 October 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.bio.20251305.11
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Abstract: Advances in bioreactor technologies are transforming sustainable aquaculture water treatment by improving pollutant removal and supporting environmental conservation and resource recovery. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent a leading sustainable approach by integrating physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes to recycle water within the system, minimizing freshwater consumption and effluent discharge. Innovative biological systems integrated with Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) including Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors, membrane bioreactors, anaerobic digesters, photobioreactors, and biofloc efficiently reduce nitrogen, phosphorus, organic matter, and other pollutants using diverse microbial communities without harmful chemicals. Recent developments feature microalgae cultivation for carbon capture and nutrient recycling, nanotechnology to boost microbial performance, and hybrid treatment methods for enhanced effectiveness. While Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors offer high ammonia and organic removal in compact setups, anaerobic bioreactors provide cost-effective nitrate reduction, and constructed wetlands effectively remove organics and phosphorus with more space needs. These bioreactors technology enhance aquaculture sustainability by reducing pollutant loads, mitigating eutrophication risks, and improving fish health through optimized water quality. Despite operational and cost challenges, these technologies promote water reuse, lower pollutant discharge, and enable circular economy practices like bioenergy production. Future research focuses on tailored, integrated treatments, engineered microbes, and resource-loop closing frameworks to bolster sustainability, regulatory compliance, and economic viability in intensive aquaculture. The aim of this review article is to examine recent innovations and developments in bioreactor technologies applied to aquaculture wastewater treatment.
Abstract: Advances in bioreactor technologies are transforming sustainable aquaculture water treatment by improving pollutant removal and supporting environmental conservation and resource recovery. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) represent a leading sustainable approach by integrating physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes to recycle...
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Review Article
Biofilm and Microbial Community Dynamics in Aquaculture Bioreactors for Water Quality Control: Current Status and Future Directions
Alebachew Molla*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2025
Pages:
99-105
Received:
4 September 2025
Accepted:
17 September 2025
Published:
10 October 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.bio.20251305.12
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Abstract: A biofilm in aquaculture is a community of microorganisms, including bacteria, algae, fungi, and others, that forms a complex and structured layer attached to surfaces within water systems. Aquaculture bioreactors rely on biofilms as critical microbial consortia that drive water quality improvement through nutrient cycling and organic matter degradation. This review highlights the dynamic succession and diversity within biofilm microbial communities, particularly emphasizing key bacterial groups such as Planctomycetes, Bacteroidetes, nitrifiers, and denitrifies that mediate ammonia and nitrogen removal. Biofilms form robust structures through sequential attachment, growth, and maturation stages, influenced by physical and chemical parameters. Molecular tools like 16S rRNA gene sequencing have advanced our understanding of biofilm ecology, revealing community shifts responsive to environmental and operational conditions. Biofilms also contribute to pathogen suppression yet pose challenges through antimicrobial resistance, necessitating balanced management to optimize treatment efficiency without biomass overgrowth. Promising future directions include engineering microbial communities and incorporating probiotics to enhance functional biofilms tailored for sustainable aquaculture. This collective knowledge supports improved aquaculture sustainability by ensuring efficient water treatment, fish health, and environmental protection. Continued integration of molecular techniques and biofilm management strategies will enhance bioreactor design and operation for resilient, eco-friendly aquaculture systems. The aim of this review is to assess the role of biofilms and microbial community dynamics in aquaculture bioreactors for effective water quality control and sustainable aquaculture production.
Abstract: A biofilm in aquaculture is a community of microorganisms, including bacteria, algae, fungi, and others, that forms a complex and structured layer attached to surfaces within water systems. Aquaculture bioreactors rely on biofilms as critical microbial consortia that drive water quality improvement through nutrient cycling and organic matter degrad...
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