Planktonic to expand feed solutions for marine hatcheries

Norway-based Planktonic AS has raised nearly NOK 30 million to support its expansion and the development of feed solutions for marine hatcheries. The funding will strengthen production, upgrade facilities, and help the company reach new markets.

Planktonic to expand feed solutions for marine hatcheries
Photo: DJ Mattaar | ShutterStock

Planktonic AS, an innovative aquaculture biotechnology company, has completed a capital raise of nearly NOK 30 million to support further growth and international expansion. The investment round is led by Ichthus Venture Capital (IVC) and Hatch’s Blue Revolution Fund, with participation from several existing shareholders, including Investinor and Bondø Invest.

Planktonic develops and produces CryoPlankton – a patented cryopreserved hatchery feed solution. The company highlights the product as offering high biosecurity, operational stability, and proven biological performance through improved survival rates, enhanced growth, and reduced deformities in marine fish and crustacean larvae.

From left to right; Dr. Nils Tokle (CTO Planktonic), Rune Husby (CEO Planktonic) Ragna R. Falkanger (Kverva), Georg Baunach (CEO Hatch Blue), Antonio Coli (Commercial Director, Planktonic), Mats Malvig (CEO IVC)
Photo: Courtesy of Planktonic

“Planktonic has established a strong market position across several marine fish species in Norway and Europe and is well positioned to support sustainable growth for both established species and the emergence of new marine aquaculture species globally. The company’s products are already in use at more than 40 hatcheries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East,” says Rune Husby, CEO of Planktonic.

“We have followed Planktonic for several years and are impressed by the team and the solution they offer to the global aquaculture market from their base in Trøndelag. The company’s technology and products represent a scientifically sound and industrially relevant innovation for modern aquaculture,” states Mats Malvig, Managing Director at IVC.

With a proven biological effect and strong customer loyalty, Planktonic points out it is well positioned for international growth – particularly within species such as sea bass and sea bream, which represent some of the largest marine aquaculture species globally. The company has already initiated commercial deliveries in these markets and is experiencing growing demand from both Europe and the Middle East, according to Planktonic’s Commercial Director Antonio Coli.

“Planktonic managed to develop a novel, unique feed for hatcheries of marine species. We like the clear value proposition of their offering with strong growth potential across various species and look forward to working with the team to scale the company,” expresses Georg Baunach, Managing Partner at Hatch Blue’s Blue Revolution Fund.

The proceeds from the capital raise will be used to strengthen production and raw material supply for CryoPlankton, upgrade facilities in Trondheim, Norway, and support growth in both existing and new markets. Key focus areas include cod, ballan wrasse, sea bass, sea bream, and seriola.

“This capital raise brings not only fresh funding but also new owners with deep industry expertise and strong international networks. It’s a significant milestone for Planktonic, and we’re excited to support the company in its next phase of growth,” adds Ronny Vikdal, Investment Director at Investinor.