Abstract: The present invention provides an improved modular algal aquaculture system and method including a modular algal aquaculture component having a cultivation surface having a first end and a second end, a supply header located adjacent to one of the first end and the second end, a return header located adjacent to the other of the first end and the second end, a reservoir, the reservoir in fluid communication with the supply header and the return header, a pump, the pump in fluid communication with the reservoir and at least one of the supply header and the return header.