Review of state-of-the-art improvements in recirculating aquaculture systems: Insights into design, operation, and statistical modeling approaches

In sustainable aquaculture, optimizing yields, water quality, and resource management is crucial. However, in recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs), the accumulation of hazardous substances such as ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate, resulting from uneaten feed and excreta, can negatively affect the health of farmed organisms, disrupt system operations, and reduce overall productivity. Therefore, RASs must be designed to effectively remove these substances and maintain optimal growth conditions. This review summarizes past efforts to enhance RAS design and operational parameters using various design of experiments (DOE) approaches to improve system performance. DOE is a powerful methodology for optimizing outcomes while minimizing the number of experimental trials. Although selecting the most suitable DOE approach depends on the specific RAS design, few studies have systematically explored its application in RAS optimization. This review addresses this gap, offering valuable guidance to researchers and aquaculture farmers on selecting appropriate DOE methods based on specific RAS requirements. • An overview of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and their significance in sustainable aquaculture practices has been assessed. • A critical review of the existing literature on the various components of RAS is provided. • The potential of statistical models to improve the efficiency and productivity of RAS is addressed. • Practical recommendations are provided for aquaculture practitioners on adopting statistical models to optimize their RAS operations.