A typical RAS (Recirculating Aquaculture System) requires a large number of devices and pumps working together. Symbio-RAS rewrites that assumption entirely.
1. A radically simple setup
A typical RAS needs many devices and multiple pumps. Symbio-RAS needs just one pump and one blower. That means lower utility costs, no need for specialist maintenance staff, fewer breakdowns, and lower mortality for fish and shrimp.
2. Nitrification and denitrification in one system
The biggest challenge of conventional RAS is filtration. Nitrification (breaking down ammonia) is achievable by most operators, but denitrification — the far harder step of converting nitrite and nitrate into nitrogen gas — is extremely difficult, which is why most facilities rely on regular water changes. Symbio-RAS performs nitrification and denitrification simultaneously in a single tank, requiring almost no water exchange.
3. High-density farming becomes possible
Because filtration proceeds reliably, farming at a significantly higher density becomes possible.
4. No special expertise required
The system is designed so anyone can operate it, without complex microbial cultivation or specialist knowledge.
5. A biofloc that establishes itself naturally
Symbio-RAS hosts a diverse community of microorganisms, and the specific microbes that naturally take hold and drive filtration differ from site to site. There is no need to artificially cultivate or maintain specific strains.
6. A rare achievement worldwide
Performing nitrification and denitrification simultaneously in a single tank is something almost no one else in the world has achieved.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of RAS?
RAS stands for Recirculating Aquaculture System. Farming inside a closed system means the fish are never exposed to the unknown contaminants that may be present in natural water. On the other hand, building a closed environment requires investment in land and equipment, along with ongoing maintenance costs.
What is the hardest part of adopting RAS?
Most conventional RAS operators struggle with filtration — nitrification and denitrification. Denitrification in particular is difficult, and conventional wisdom in Japan holds that regular, full water exchange is required. Because Symbio-RAS barely requires any water exchange at all, people often find it hard to believe at first.