KSU Aquaculture Research Center

09/09/2026

🌿 Utilizing Macroalgae for Sustainable Aquaculture Water Quality! 🐟

How can we effectively manage nutrient buildup in marine aquaculture systems while keeping production costs down?

In our latest “Behind the Scenes” video, Elizabeth, a Graduate Research Assistant in the Water Quality Lab at Kentucky State University, shares an inside look at her current research project.

Elizabeth is testing how macroalgae (Ulva lactuca and Gracilaria) can absorb excess nutrients from flounder aquaculture effluent. Her study combines aerobic mineralization—digesting effluent at 32°C for 8–10 days to boost bioavailable nitrates—with an evaluation of standard synthetic sea salts versus a homemade salt formulation designed to reduce production costs by over 50%!

🎥 Watch the full video update here: https://youtu.be/dxoZ-RTUjDk

In this video, Elizabeth, a Graduate Research Assistant in the Wate...

09/03/2026

Are you interested in getting practical hands-on and basic information about aquaponic system design, production, and business planning? Attend our pre-conference aquaponics workshop to gain the information, skills, and see operations that work. Learn more about the workshop, schedule, and ticket prices here:

https://buff.ly/b758FUq

09/03/2026

Student Presentation Competition! 🏆

Are you a student, teach a student, or know a student? We are putting students work into the spotlight at our 15th Annual Aquaponics Conference! Students can present their research, projects, or innovations and compete for cash prizes at this years event in Frankfort, KY!
https://aquaponicsconference.org/presentations

08/31/2026

What an unforgettable week sharing the heartbeat of Kentucky State University Agriculture with thousands of visitors from all across the Commonwealth!

Our booth in Agland was buzzing from start to finish. We loved getting to showcase the real-world research, sustainable technology, and hands-on demonstrations that KSU faculty, researchers, and Extension specialists bring to Kentucky farmers every single day:

✨ Active aquaponic system with vibrant koi
🦐 Live saltwater shrimp
🌳 Real pawpaw trees from our flagship research program
🐔 Portable chicken tractors for sustainable poultry setups
🐄 Interactive milking cow for future young farmers to practice on!

Connecting with Kentuckians and sharing KSU’s rich history as a 1890 Land-Grant institution is what it’s all about. From high-tech aquaculture to practical small-farm solutions, KSU continues to pave the way for Kentucky's agricultural future.

Thank you to all who visited! See you in 2027! 🐎💚

08/31/2026

🍂 Kicking Off Fall 2026 with a Faculty Spotlight! 🎓🐟

As we dive into the start of the new fall semester, we are excited to spotlight one of our newest team member, Dr. Patrick Erbland, who joins us as Assistant Professor of Aquaculture Technology and Management at the Kentucky State University's School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science!

Dr. Erbland comes to Frankfort bringing 25 years of diverse experience across aquaculture and aquatic ecology—spanning research, industry, regulation, and restoration. Arriving most recently from Maine, his work has taken him all along the East Coast from Florida to Newfoundland. 🌊

🔬 What He’ll Be Doing at SAAS:

Cutting-Edge Research: Developing sustainable seafood systems with minimal environmental impact, specializing in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), shellfish, microalgae, and sustainable feeds.

Course Instruction: Teaching Principles of Aquaculture (AQU 422/522), Survey of Production Methods (AQU 451/551), and Marine Biology (AQU 352).

Student Mentorship: Serving as co-advisor to the KSU United States Aquaculture Society (USAS) Student Subunit.

Please join us in giving Dr. Erbland a warm Thorobred welcome as we kick off a great semester! 🐴✨

08/26/2026

Experience cutting-edge agriculture firsthand at the Kentucky State University Land Grant Program booth in AgLand (South Wing A) at the Kentucky State Fair!

Stop by to explore interactive displays and chat directly with KSU researchers, specialists, and extension agents:

🦐Kentucky-Raised Saltwater Shrimp: See live demonstrations of KSU’s groundbreaking indoor marine aquaculture technology bringing fresh, sustainable seafood to the Commonwealth.

🥬Hydroponic Systems: Get an up-close look at modern, soil-free growing technology designed to maximize yields and conserve water for home and commercial growers.

🌿Pawpaw Research: Discover 30+ years of innovation from the world’s leading pawpaw research program, featuring breeding insights, cultivation tips, and unique tree fruit developments.

Whether you're a commercial farmer, home gardener, or curious fairgoer, come see how KSU is growing the future of agriculture!

08/25/2026

🦐 Sneak Peek into the Future of Fresh, US-Grown Shrimp! 🦐

Last week, Dr. Ray, Chair of Kentucky State University’s School of Aquaculture and Aquatic Science, alongside research associate Marissa Bermeo, traveled to the Midwest to visit two innovative shrimp operations: Simply Shrimp LLC and PurBlu Shrimp.

Here’s why what they’re doing is a huge deal for fresh, local seafood:

Minnesota Shrimp Company runs one of the few hatcheries in the entire US producing "post larvae" (baby shrimp!). Having a steady source of baby shrimp right here at home is a total game-changer for American farmers looking to stock their tanks.

PurBlu Shrimp Farm is flexing some serious tech! They’re using futuristic "photo-bioreactors" to clean ammonia out of their water naturally—making them one of only five farms in the Midwest trying this cutting-edge approach.

Dr. Ray and Marissa shared expert tips on boosting shrimp health and keeping water quality top-notch. As the world’s leading indoor shrimp farming research team, we’re super excited to support local farmers pushing the boundaries of sustainable seafood! 🌿💧

08/25/2026

Heading around the exhibits? Make sure to stop by the Kentucky State University booth to see our live aquaponics system and saltwater shrimp in action!

08/24/2026

Looking for some fun? Come visit the KSU College of Agriculture booth! We’ve got live fish, live shrimp, and a (very patient, non-live) cow waiting for you to practice your milking skills!

08/21/2026

🗓️ SAVE THE DATE! 🐟

Mark your calendars! The Kentucky Chapter of the American Fisheries Society is hosting its 2027 Annual Meeting, and you won't want to miss it!

Join fellow students, researchers, and professionals to connect, learn, and contribute to the future of Kentucky's aquatic ecosystems.

Event Highlights:

👥 Network: Connect with fisheries professionals from across Kentucky.

📑 Share & Learn: Discover the latest research, management strategies, and conservation efforts.

🐟 Support: Promote the conservation and sustainable management of aquatic resources.

Key Event Details:

Dates: February 11–12, 2027

Location: Rough River Dam State Resort Park (Falls of Rough, KY)

Call for Papers Deadline: December 11

More details will be coming soon!

❓ Questions? Contact Adam Charlton at [email protected].

Working together for healthy fisheries and waters in Kentucky. 🌊