From 24th to 28th February 2025, I was at the Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), the Laboratory of Feed and Seafood Quality, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal, for 5 days of training activity. I had a fruitful meeting with Prof. Luísa Maria Pinheiro Valente, Head of Food and Seafood Quality. During the 5 days, I visited all the laboratories' rearing systems, facilities, and equipment in CIIMAR. I mainly worked in the Laboratory of Feed and Seafood Quality. This laboratory focused on optimising sustainable practices in aquaculture with smart and precision farming techniques. It addresses incorporating novel nutrient sources and valorising industrial by-products in aquafeeds, as well as improving the quality, safety, and welfare of aquatic animals under a market-oriented approach, which was in line with my current and future research scope.
I gained experience and discipline regarding self-feeder and its software for the Sea Bream (Sparus aurata) feeding, and I visited the physiology and histology section of the laboratory and got familiar with different software for specific evaluation of tissues, including the fish liver and intestine. Moreover, I visited the Laboratory of Microbiology and Biotechnology in Aquaculture and discussed with Dr. Cláudia Reis Serra. Dr. Serra's research area focuses on Microbiology and Biotechnology in Aquaculture, which applies to my research area.
In conclusion, the 5-day training activity gave me an excellent opportunity to get familiar with different applicable methods in my future research plan. Moreover, I could find new research trends and expand my research networks. Furthermore, it gave me the chance to exchange and discuss my ideas with expert researchers to develop my original ideas for future projects. Finally, the visit increased the chance of writing joint projects and international contributions that will have benefits for both institutes. I would like to acknowledge Erasmus+ and RVO ÚA laboratory for financial support.
