Aarhus University Seal

Inhibiting problematic bacteria via Nanocoatings

Biofouling

The microbial sources of Geosmin and MIB are primarily the biofilm forming actinomycetes and to a lesser extend planktonic cyanobacteria. These off-flavour molecules are not a health concern in aquaculture but instead a substantial nuisance to the consumers and therefore also a concern for fish producers. The issue is complex as humans have a remarkable ability to taste off-flavour, while the off-flavour molecules are resistant to removal from water by conventional methods like ozonation. Additionally, RAS water cannot be treated effectively with antimicrobials to remove the problematic bacteria as such treatments may harm the biofilter and fish. However, novel anti-biofilm coatings may provide a safe, low-cost solution to biofilm formation. These nanocoatings directly destroy microbes or work to prevent or weaken microbe attachment.