Global Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market Size, Share, And Business Benefits By Species (Spirulina, Chlorella, Nannochloropsis, Isochrysis, Others), By Aquatic Animal (Fish, Mollusks, Crustaceans, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market is expected to be worth around USD 513.5 million by 2034, up from USD 251.5 million in 2024, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2025 to 2034. Asia-Pacific’s Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market at 37.90%, USD 95.3 Mn, reflects sustainable aquaculture growth.

Microalgae-based aquafeed refers to fish and shrimp feed that is enriched with microalgae instead of relying entirely on traditional ingredients like fishmeal or soy. Microalgae are nutrient-rich organisms packed with proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and pigments that support healthy growth, immunity, and color in aquatic species.

The microalgae-based aquafeed market represents the global trade and production of feed products that incorporate microalgae as a key nutritional component. This market is driven by rising concerns over marine resource depletion, the need for sustainable farming solutions, and the nutritional advantages of algae-derived feed. It caters to a wide range of aquaculture species and is gaining traction as both consumers and producers increasingly favor environmentally conscious food systems. According to an industry report, Latvia’s SpirulinaNord earns €600K to tap into the superfood’s potential.

The key growth factor for this market lies in sustainability. With global fishmeal supplies under pressure and aquaculture expanding rapidly, microalgae offer a renewable and scalable protein source. Their ability to be cultivated in controlled environments, without competing with farmland or freshwater resources, positions them as a strong growth driver. According to an industry report, Paris-based Edonia collects €2M to create plant-based ingredients using microalgae.

Demand is strongly shaped by the growing need for healthier aquaculture products. Consumers are becoming more aware of nutrition and environmental impact, seeking seafood raised on sustainable feed sources. Microalgae, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, enhance the quality of fish and shrimp, which directly fuels demand. According to an industry report, a Climate tech startup secures $5.2M to develop sunlight-powered, carbon-negative proteins.

Key Takeaways

• The Global Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market is expected to be worth around USD 513.5 million by 2034, up from USD 251.5 million in 2024, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2025 to 2034.
• In 2024, Spirulina captured 38.3% in the microalgae-based aquafeed market, reflecting strong nutritional demand.
• Fish dominated the microalgae-based aquafeed market with a 58.9% share, highlighting its essential role in aquaculture feed.
• The 37.90% share in Asia-Pacific, worth USD 95.3 Mn, highlights strong aquaculture feed adoption.

By Species Analysis

In 2024, Spirulina led the Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market with 38.3%.

In 2024, Spirulina held a dominant market position in the By Species segment of the Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market, with a 38.3% share. Spirulina has long been recognized as one of the most nutrient-dense microalgae, offering a rich source of proteins, essential amino acids, vitamins, and pigments such as beta-carotene and phycocyanin.

Its inclusion in aquafeed supports better growth, enhanced immunity, and improved coloration in fish and shrimp, which makes it highly attractive to aquaculture producers aiming for both productivity and product quality.

The 38.3% share highlights Spirulina’s widespread acceptance among feed manufacturers and aquaculture farms, who view it as a reliable and sustainable alternative to fishmeal. One of the critical reasons behind Spirulina’s dominance is its ability to be cultivated in controlled systems with minimal environmental impact, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable feed ingredients. This adaptability has allowed Spirulina to scale in production, ensuring a consistent supply for commercial aquafeed applications.

As aquaculture continues to expand to meet rising seafood demand, Spirulina’s proven nutritional benefits and strong alignment with sustainable practices are expected to keep it at the forefront of the microalgae-based aquafeed segment in the coming years, reinforcing its leadership position.

By Aquatic Animal Analysis

Fish dominated the Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market in 2024, capturing 58.9% share.

In 2024, fish held a dominant market position in the by-aquatic-animal segment of the microalgae-based aquafeed market, with a 58.9% share. This leadership is strongly tied to the growing reliance on aquaculture to meet the rising global demand for fish as a protein source. Microalgae-based feed provides fish with essential nutrients such as high-quality proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and natural pigments that enhance growth performance, disease resistance, and product quality, making it a preferred choice for fish farming.

The 58.9% share demonstrates the critical role of fish in the overall aquaculture feed landscape, as fish farming represents the largest portion of aquaculture production worldwide. Spirulina, Chlorella, and other microalgae-derived ingredients are increasingly replacing or supplementing traditional fishmeal, reducing pressure on marine resources while ensuring a stable feed supply.

Looking ahead, the dominance of fish in this segment is expected to remain robust, as the consumption of fish continues to rise globally. With sustainability and nutritional quality at the forefront, microalgae-based feed is set to further strengthen its role in supporting fish farming and maintaining long-term growth in this segment.

Key Market Segments

By Species

• Spirulina
• Chlorella
• Nannochloropsis
• Isochrysis
• Others

By Aquatic Animal

• Fish
• Mollusks
• Crustaceans
• Others

Driving Factors

Sustainability Push Driving Growth in Aquafeed Market

One of the biggest driving factors of the microalgae-based aquafeed market is the rising global focus on sustainability. Traditional fishmeal, which has been the backbone of aquaculture feed, faces growing challenges due to overfishing and the limited supply of marine resources.

Microalgae provide a renewable, eco-friendly alternative that can be cultivated in controlled systems without putting extra pressure on oceans or farmland. This shift is supported by global initiatives encouraging sustainable food production and environmental protection.

As aquaculture expands to meet rising seafood demand, the need for responsible feed solutions is increasing. Microalgae-based feeds, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, align perfectly with these goals, making sustainability the most influential factor driving this market forward.

Restraining Factors

High Production Costs Limit Wider Market Adoption

A key restraining factor for the microalgae-based aquafeed market is the high cost of production. Unlike conventional feed ingredients such as soy or fishmeal, cultivating and processing microalgae requires advanced technology, controlled environments, and significant energy input.

These processes increase the overall price of the final feed product, making it less accessible for small and medium-scale aquaculture farmers who operate with tighter budgets. While large-scale farms may absorb these costs, widespread adoption remains limited.

Until innovations in cultivation methods, cost-efficient harvesting, and large-scale production bring prices closer to traditional feed, the higher cost barrier will continue to slow down the rapid expansion of microalgae-based aquafeed across the global aquaculture sector.

Growth Opportunity

Rising Demand for Omega-3 Enriched Aquaculture Products

One major growth opportunity for the microalgae-based aquafeed market lies in the increasing consumer demand for seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Traditionally, these nutrients have come from fishmeal and fish oil, but declining marine resources are pushing the industry to find alternatives.

Microalgae are a natural and direct source of omega-3s, offering a sustainable way to enhance the nutritional profile of farmed fish and shrimp. This not only improves the health and growth of aquatic animals but also delivers higher-value seafood to consumers seeking healthier diets.

As awareness about heart health and nutrition rises globally, aquafeed enriched with microalgae-based omega-3s is positioned to capture strong growth opportunities in the coming years.

Latest Trends

Adoption of Advanced Cultivation Technologies for Microalgae

A leading trend in the microalgae-based aquafeed market is the growing adoption of advanced cultivation technologies. Producers are increasingly using photobioreactors, closed-loop systems, and automation to optimize algae growth while cutting down water and energy use.

These innovations allow consistent quality, higher yields, and cost efficiency compared to traditional open-pond methods. Such technologies also reduce the risk of contamination, ensuring safer and cleaner inputs for aquafeed production. As demand rises for sustainable and nutrient-rich feed, these advancements are making large-scale production more feasible.

The move toward high-tech cultivation is not only meeting industry needs but also shaping the future of aquafeed, positioning microalgae as a reliable and scalable solution in aquaculture.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, Asia-Pacific dominated the Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market with a 37.90% share, valued at USD 95.3 Mn.

The Microalgae-Based Aquafeed Market shows notable regional dynamics, with Asia-Pacific emerging as the leading region. In 2024, Asia-Pacific accounted for 37.90% of the market, valued at USD 95.3 million, reflecting its strong dominance in global aquafeed adoption.

The region’s leadership is primarily driven by its vast aquaculture industry, particularly in countries such as China, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia, which collectively contribute a significant share of global fish and shrimp production.

Rising seafood consumption across these nations, coupled with government-backed initiatives to promote sustainable aquaculture practices, has accelerated the use of microalgae-based feed as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional fishmeal.

North America and Europe also show steady growth, supported by increasing consumer preference for sustainable seafood and innovation in feed technology. Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa and Latin America are gradually adopting microalgae-based aquafeed solutions as awareness grows around resource-efficient farming practices.

However, it is Asia-Pacific’s dominance that stands out, backed by its large population, growing middle class, and rising awareness of the nutritional value of farmed seafood. With strong industry expansion and supportive policies, the region is expected to maintain its leadership role in driving the global microalgae-based aquafeed market forward.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

A4F Algae for Future has emphasized expertise in large-scale algae production systems, particularly photobioreactors and open ponds. Its focus on advanced cultivation methods is aimed at improving efficiency and lowering production costs, which remain one of the key challenges in the industry. By scaling algae biomass production, A4F supports aquafeed manufacturers in securing a stable and sustainable raw material supply.

Cellana Inc. has strengthened its position through innovations in algae cultivation and downstream processing. Its research and development efforts are directed toward producing high-value algal ingredients rich in proteins, lipids, and omega-3 fatty acids. Such advancements are vital for aquaculture, as fish and shrimp farmers increasingly look for nutrient-dense alternatives to traditional fishmeal.

Corbion N.V., known for its strong biotechnology foundation, has strategically invested in algae-derived solutions. By focusing on algae-based omega-3 oils and protein-rich feed components, Corbion addresses both animal health and sustainability concerns. Its global reach and strong supply capabilities provide it with an edge in catering to large-scale aquaculture markets.

Top Key Players in the Market

• A4F Algae for the future
• Cellana Inc.
• Corbion N.V.
• Evergen Resources
• Koninklijke DSM N.V.
• The Archer-Daniels-Midland Company

Recent Developments

• In February 2025, A4F Algafuel joined the European CoPilot project, specifically its Pilots4U subproject. This involves listing A4F’s Lisbon Experimental Unit and pilot biorefinery in a digital platform that highlights bioeconomy demo sites across Europe. This participation provides wider visibility and collaboration opportunities for future aquafeed and biotech ventures.
• In October 2024, Cellana signed a definitive merger agreement with PhytoSmart Inc. Once completed, PhytoSmart will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Cellana. This move brings PhytoSmart’s pet supplement offerings—whole algae-based products rich in DHA and EPA Omega-3—under Cellana’s umbrella, broadening their reach into consumer nutrition markets, including pet care.

Report Scope