Development and evaluation of peroxide free fin-fish nursery feeds with active DHA-synthase enzyme (DSe)

The marine microalgae Chrypthecodinium conhii (C. cohnii) contains high levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and DHA synthase enzymes (DSe). Finfish have shown de novo synthesis of DHA when fed a C. cohnii product, KoniSap™, developed by FPN LLC. KoniSap™ is unique to the aqua-feed market as it is produced under low temperature and inert gas to prevent lipid oxidation and avoid enzyme denaturation. This Phase II will conduct Atlantic salmon feeding trials using KoniSap™ aimed to quantify the activity of DSe. The quantification of DSe activity will provide accurate feeding methods to establish sufficient accumulation of DHA in adult fish. The ultimate goal of this research is to demonstrate KoniSap™ production potential and provide the parameters in which aquaculturists can use KoniSap™ to fortify the DHA contents of their product. Increases in DHA concentration in fish provides added value at market.