IRTAmar® represents the cutting edge in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), resulting from a collaboration between the IRTA research centre and INGESOM, a technology company specialized in control and digitalization solutions for the industry. Since 2009, we have worked together not only to automate this system but also to integrate an advanced digitalization layer that redefines aquaculture research.
The IRTAmar® web application, specifically designed for researchers, offers an intuitive interface where users can monitor the real-time status of IRTAmar® modules, view different components, receive alerts, and consult historical data graphically and in tables. However, the real revolution arrives with our latest innovation: the ability to create “recipes” for each day of the experiment, allowing researchers to set variables such as water temperature, recirculating flow, oxygen, and pH, according to their research needs.
A detailed example of how these “temperature recipes” work can be illustrated with an experiment involving gilthead seabream juveniles. At the start of the experiment, the researcher can decide to set the water temperature at 24°C for the initial five days to suit the critical early stage of development. After this period, the researcher might find it beneficial to decrease the temperature to 23°C for the next fifteen days to optimize growth conditions, followed by a further reduction to 22.5°C for another thirty days as the experiment progresses.
Each of these changes is pre-programmed at the beginning of the experiment via the IRTAmar® app. The system automatically adjusts to these settings on the designated days without requiring manual intervention, ensuring that the experimental conditions are precisely controlled as planned. In addition, the automated system and alarm features continuously monitor these settings to ensure they are maintained correctly throughout the experiment.
An additional feature that will be highly appreciated by research centre clients is the ability to access the platform to check the status of their experiments. Users from external companies can view the current state, which day of the experiment they are on, and the evolution of various physicochemical water variables to date. It is important to note that these users will have access exclusively to their own experiment data, thereby ensuring data privacy and security.
We are excited to showcase IRTAmar® at the upcoming Aquafuture Spain 2025 in Vigo, from May 20th to 22nd (Stand A-04). This platform not only simplifies the management of aquaculture experiments but also sets a new standard in technological research and development in the sector.
Looking to the future, at INGESOM and IRTA, we are actively exploring the potential of artificial intelligence to further revolutionize aquaculture. With each innovation, IRTAmar® and INGESOM reaffirm their commitment to scientific and technological advancement, opening up new possibilities for the world of aquaculture. Stay tuned for more exciting developments in this field.
