NEWS FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE October 2022 93 The Center for Aquaculture Technologies (CAT), a leader in aquatic animal genetics, welcomed Dr. Marcos De Donato as a new Breeding Scientist. Dr. De Donato will work with clients to implement modern selective breeding strategies to facilitate genetic improvement in aquatic species and increase the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture. De Donato brings over 20 years of expertise in animal breeding, genomics and molecular diagnostics. He has experience in both implementation of practical breeding approaches for commercial organizations, and extensive academic research in prominent institutions such as Universidad de Oriente, Cornell University and Tecnológico de Monterrey. “Aquaculture is the fastest growing industry in the world, and genetics is the key to its sustainable future,” says Dr. De Donato, “I believe CAT is a game changer for aquaculture – the in-house team can develop custom tools for any wild or cultured species, and they deliver innovative solutions accessible to companies at any level, big or small. This approach is what propels the industry into the future, and I am excited to begin my journey here.” A renowned scientist joins CAT’s world-class genetics team Dr. Marcos De Donato FarmBox Foods launches indoor farm that grows livestock feed FarmBox Foods LLC announced the official launch of its Hydroponic Fodder Farm. The company hosted a public open house from on September 27 and guided tours of the new indoor farm - the third product line offered by FarmBox Foods - were provided. Attendees also received a tour of the company’s other tech-assisted, containerized farms: the Vertical Hydroponic Farm and Gourmet Mushroom Farm. Fodder is a nutrient-dense hay that’s used as a dietary supplement for horses, cows, pigs, goats, chickens, sheep, rabbits and alpacas. By growing fodder on site year-round, farmers and ranchers can avoid supply chain disruptions, sourcing issues and spikes in hay prices. The controlled-climate farms provide a reliable, hyperlocal source of fresh food while shielding the barley fodder from weather and climate impacts, including drought, heat waves, freezes and floods. The farms are housed inside upcycled, insulated shipping containers outfitted with plumbing, electrical and sensors to control conditions inside. The 320 squarefoot farms also capture, filter and recycle water for maximum water efficiency. Because barley fodder requires only a 7-day growth cycle, a staggered schedule allows farmers and ranchers to harvest around 880 pounds of fodder per day. Protein-rich fodder improves the overall health of livestock, supplements hydration and adds weight to beef cattle. It also promotes the production of better-quality milk for dairy cows and goats, improves fertility rates, reduces the likelihood of illness, and decreases methane output because of its superior digestibility compared to traditional alfalfa hay.
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