KNF pumps feed microalgae for baby oysters

Researchers in the Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory at Ifremer, the French Research Institute for the Exploitation of the Sea, are using the microprocessor-controlled STEPDOS® pumps from KNF Flodos in their photobioreactors to cultivate microalgae as food for oyster larvae.

"Oysters are very popular in France and their cultivation is a big industry, so we grow microalgae to feed the oyster larvae in hatcheries," explained Dr Gaël Bougaran, head of the microalgae cultivation projects. "We rely on the STEPDOS pumps to maintain a very accurate and consistent flow of nutrients to the photobioreactors, continuously for up to three months. If the flow rate changes, all the results will change, so it is critical to have the best possible accuracy."

"The STEPDOS pumps come with a convenient choice of tube fittings and are easy to programme, and their plastic pump heads are essential, because the natural seawater and added nutrients are highly corrosive. We have been using STEPDOS pumps for about seven years, and we now have a collection of around 30 pumps." Dr Bougaran concluded: "We are very happy with the KNF pumps, because they are reliable and exceptionally accurate."