KOA Biotech, an innovative startup focused on sustainable aquaculture practices, has secured €2 million in funding to enhance its technology aimed at early disease detection in fish farms. The investment will enable the company to advance its biosensor system, which combines cutting-edge biotechnological tools and proprietary algorithms for the early identification of waterborne infections. As the global demand for aquaculture production continues to grow, this breakthrough technology promises to significantly reduce losses in the industry caused by infectious diseases.

Addressing a Growing Challenge in Aquaculture

The aquaculture sector plays a crucial role in feeding the world, with more than half of the fish consumed globally coming from fish farms. However, the industry faces a significant challenge with the growing incidence of infections that can cause substantial losses in production. According to Sira Mogas, CEO and founder of KOA Biotech, up to 30 percent of aquaculture production can be lost due to infections, with the economic impact estimated at over $6 billion annually worldwide.

KOA Biotech, born from the doctoral research of its founder, is focused on using biotechnology to create solutions for these pressing issues in the sector. The company aims to become a leader in the diagnosis and prevention of diseases within aquaculture, promoting sustainable and efficient practices to help the industry meet global food demands. With this goal in mind, KOA is committed to developing tools that not only address immediate challenges but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the sector.

A Game-Changing Technology for the Industry

At the core of KOA's innovative approach is its autonomous biosensor system, which can detect waterborne infections early through a combination of specialized sensors and algorithms. This system allows fish farmers to identify potential threats before they become widespread, offering a powerful tool to implement preventive measures in aquaculture production. By detecting infections at their onset, KOA's technology helps reduce mortality rates caused by pathogens and decreases the reliance on antibiotics, which are often overused in aquaculture to combat infections.

The ability to identify infections early enables more effective disease management and helps protect both the health of fish stocks and the financial stability of fish farms. Additionally, KOA’s solution has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of aquaculture practices by minimizing the need for chemical treatments and optimizing the use of resources. This focus on sustainability and efficiency positions KOA as a key player in the future of the aquaculture industry.

Strategic Investment to Accelerate Growth

The €2 million funding round was led by Swanlaab Innvierte Agrifood-Tech, with participation from Fund-F and Faber. This financial backing will support KOA Biotech’s continued research and development efforts, allowing the company to refine its biosensor technology and scale its commercial operations. Swanlaab Innvierte Agrifood-Tech’s General Partner, Nora Alonso, emphasized the importance of investing in technological and innovative companies like KOA, which are at the forefront of advancing Spain's agri-food sector and contributing to global solutions for sustainable food production.

Alonso highlighted that KOA’s advancements in disease detection and prevention represent a significant step toward reducing the impact of waterborne diseases in aquaculture. The investment will also enable the company to build its market presence, ensuring that its groundbreaking technology reaches a broader audience and makes a meaningful impact on the global aquaculture industry.

KOA Biotech's €2 million funding marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to revolutionize disease prevention in aquaculture. By combining biotechnology with cutting-edge sensor technology, KOA is poised to offer solutions that address the industry's most pressing challenges while promoting sustainable practices. With the support of its investors, KOA is well-positioned to lead the way in advancing the future of aquaculture and contributing to the growth of the global food sector.