Culture methods of live algal feeds for European aquaculture: optimising culture conditions for Ulvella lens

The Japanese development of mass culture techniques for Ulvella lens during the 1980s for aquaculture has stimulated the development of rearing techniques for abalone and sea urchins in producing countries. However, since the late 1980s, there has not been any in-depth evaluation of culture methods for U. lens, nor the development of a new robust method for aquaculture operators. The use of this known inducer for settlement of veliger larvae has not been employed on a commercial scale in Ireland or in European aquaculture systems. The new methodology described here has produced a threefold increase in the settlement of sea urchins (Paracentrotuslividus) and is recommended for adoption by the European aquaculture industry.