Turning Invasive Fish into Value! RMUTT Researchers Develop Calcium Supplement from Blackchin Tilapia, Addressing Both Environmental and Health Challenges

Asst. Prof. Dr. Watchara Damjuti and his research team from the Faculty of Integrative Medicine, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi (RMUTT) have developed an innovative method to transform blackchin tilapia—an invasive alien species disrupting Thailand’s freshwater and brackish ecosystems—into a health-promoting calcium supplement. The process is environmentally friendly and aligns with the principles of the circular economy.

Blackchin tilapia is considered one of the invasive species causing significant harm to biodiversity and local aquatic resources, particularly in coastal basins and wetland areas. The research team’s innovation aims to mitigate this ecological impact by utilizing fish waste—such as bones and skeletons—as raw materials for calcium extraction. The technology used avoids harmful chemicals, ensuring safety for both consumers and the environment.

The research team is currently in the process of filing a petty patent for the production method, with the goal of commercializing the product and adding value to what was once considered ecological waste—transforming it into both economic and health benefits.

This research is not only significant in terms of innovation and health but also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using marine and aquatic resources. The project exemplifies how local Thai knowledge and modern technology can be combined to address global environmental challenges.