Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production industry, supplying over half of the fish consumed by humans

The College of Menominee Nation received a $646,304 Project Grant award on September 15, 2025, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture under the 1994 Institutions Research Grants program (CFDA 10.227). This three-year research initiative, concluding September 14, 2028, aims to identify optimal essential fatty acid levels for walleye aquaculture feed formulations. The project will conduct two growth trials examining alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) requirements, addressing the industry shift toward replacing fish oil with plant-based oils in aquafeeds while maintaining nutritional value for this commercially important Midwest species.

The project will deliver comprehensive research findings through growth and biochemical response evaluations of walleye subjected to varying fatty acid dietary compositions. Deliverables include technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations that will inform balanced, cost-effective feed formulations for walleye aquaculture producers. This research directly supports USDA strategic objectives to expand safe, nutritious food production while promoting economic development in rural communities, particularly the Menominee Nation service area in Wisconsin.

Fish are rich in protein, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the risks of heart disease and strokes. To support the USDA's strategic goal of providing all americans with safe, nutritious food, there is a current focus on replacing fish oil with plant oils in aquafeeds to lower costs and reduce dependence on fish oil. However, plant oils lack essential omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which necessitates a closer look at fatty acid needs in fish diets.walleye (sander vitreus) is increasingly valued in the midwest for its commercial potential and high market prices ($46.2/KG for skinless fillets). The growing interest in walleye culture aligns with the USDA's goal to expand economic development and improve the quality of life in rural communities. Although research has addressed fish oil replacement with vegetable oil, specific data on optimal fatty acid levels for walleye are still needed for balanced, cost-effective feed formulations. This research aims to identify the ideal levels of essential fatty acids for walleye through two growth trials focusing on α-linolenic acid (ALA) and EPA & DHA. The project will comprehensively evaluate growth and biochemical responses and disseminate findings through presentations, technical reports, and peer-reviewed publications. As mentioned above, this effort will support both the USDA's goals.