A team of researchers led by Professor Chien Ming Wang from the University of Queensland’s School of Civil Engineering has introduced a revolutionary solution for fish farming in deeper ocean waters. The project unveils a lightweight fish pen called SeaFisher, aimed at meeting the growing demand for seafood in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. SeaFisher utilises a modular system consisting of interconnected cages, each measuring 20 cubic meters. These cages, capable of accommodating up to 24,000 fully grown finfish each, are arranged in pairs to facilitate tasks such as feeding and harvesting.
Traditional fish farms, typically situated in shallow waters near the shore, often encounter space limitations due to competition and environmental considerations. With SeaFisher, the industry now has the opportunity to expand into deeper, cooler waters, thereby enhancing fish health and welfare while mitigating environmental impact. Constructed using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes and custom brackets, SeaFisher provides a sturdy yet lightweight structure.
The pen can be submerged during storms for safety, thanks to water pumps filling the pipes with ballast. A front shield deflects debris, while reinforced netting prevents predators from accessing the fish. In comparison to existing offshore fish farming structures, SeaFisher is estimated to have a significantly lower initial cost, approximately $6 million. Moreover, it has the potential to yield ten times more fish production and can accommodate various finfish species alongside seaweed cultivation, utilising fish waste as fertilizer.
To minimise environmental impact, SeaFisher is moored using a single suction anchor, allowing it to move with water currents and reducing disturbance to the ocean floor. With a patented design, SeaFisher is now undergoing testing with scale models before prototypes are developed, promising a paradigm shift in offshore aquaculture.
Source-Global seafood Alliance