Three-dimensional in-situ proliferation device for cuttlefish in fish reef area and micro ecological system

Abstract

The invention provides a fish reef area cuttlefish three-dimensional in-situ proliferation device which comprises a proliferation platform, the proliferation platform comprises a breeding box and a plurality of proliferation boxes, a fish reef cluster is arranged below the proliferation platform, and a communicating reef is arranged between the proliferation platform and the fish reef cluster; the communicating reef comprises a plurality of ropes hung in the circumferential direction of the proliferation box, a plurality of algae seedlings are linearly clamped on the ropes along the ropes in a long-line mode, and the bottom ends of the ropes penetrate into the fish reef cluster, the miniature ecological system comprises a cuttlefish proliferation area and a fish culture area which are arranged on the upper portion, and the communicating reef is communicated with a fish reef area on the seabed through the ropes; according to the invention, the on-water and underwater linkage of cuttlefish proliferation activity is realized, and the three-dimensional in-situ proliferation is realized, so that the cuttlefish proliferation, releasing and maintenance efficiency is improved, and a miniature ecological system in which cuttlefish, algae and the like are mutually beneficial is created.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of aquatic animal propagation, specifically relating to a three-dimensional in-situ propagation device for squid in fish reef areas and a micro-ecosystem. Background Technology

[0002] The current method of releasing and stocking squid follows the traditional fishery enhancement model, which involves directly releasing artificially bred fry or fertilized eggs into natural sea areas during the squid breeding season to compensate for and restore natural resources. However, since artificially bred squid fry and fertilized eggs mainly come from artificial breeding environments, it is difficult to guarantee their survival when these artificially bred fry, which have already adapted to breeding conditions, are directly released into natural sea areas with vastly different environments. In particular, newly hatched squid larvae are likely to become prey for other predatory organisms as soon as they enter natural waters, thus making it impossible to guarantee the actual effectiveness of this method of releasing and stocking squid.

[0003] Chinese Patent Publication No. CN109757406B, Publication Date: May 17, 2019, discloses an invention entitled "Method for Propagating Golden Squid Seedlings," comprising the following steps: 1) Sea Area Selection: Selecting sea areas meeting Class I seawater standards as seedling propagation areas, and sea areas meeting Class II seawater standards as candidate propagation areas; 2) Seedling Cultivation: Using wild-caught or artificially raised golden squid as parent stock, removing the attached egg substrate from the fertilized eggs laid by the parent stock and placing them in an incubation pond. After the juvenile squid hatch, the incubation pond continues to be used as a juvenile squid cultivation pond; 3) Seedling Release: Custom-made release boxes are placed inside foam boxes, and the golden squid seedlings are sucked into the release boxes; 4) Marine Propagation Method: Packing the seedlings in bags onto ships and dispersing them; 5) Marine Recapture Method: Catching immature golden squid for commercial processing and sale, and catching sexually mature male and female individuals as parent stock for seedling cultivation. This invention has the advantage of both protection and utilization. The technical solution uses direct seeding, which makes it difficult to guarantee that the seedlings will adapt and survive. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a three-dimensional in-situ propagation device and micro-ecosystem for squid in artificial reef areas. By combining the propagation activities of squid fertilized eggs with the protective effect of artificial reefs through a propagation platform, connecting reefs and artificial reef groups, it achieves three-dimensional in-situ propagation that links the above-water and underwater environments, thereby improving the survival rate and resource efficiency of squid propagation.

[0005] A further objective of this invention is to provide a better protected environment, as well as better hydrological and food conditions, for the growth and fattening of newly hatched squid larvae by setting up a porous reef system.

[0006] A further objective of this invention is to attract and enrich prey organisms by setting up a rearing box, thereby providing a good food regulation for newly hatched squid larvae.

[0007] A further objective of this invention is to create a mutually beneficial micro-ecosystem of squid, algae, etc., thereby achieving ecological mutual benefit, optimizing resource utilization efficiency, and promoting the growth and survival of newly hatched squid larvae.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a three-dimensional in-situ propagation device for squid in artificial reef areas, comprising a propagation platform, which includes a culture tank and several culture tanks. An artificial reef group is located below the propagation platform, and a connecting reef is provided between the propagation platform and the artificial reef group. The connecting reef includes several ropes suspended along the circumference of the culture tanks. The upper section of the ropes uses a clamping method to clamp several algae at equal intervals along the rope length, forming an algae propagation area. The lower section of the ropes uses a hanging method to suspend several shellfish, forming a shellfish culture area. The bottom end of the rope extends into the artificial reef group. By combining the propagation activity of squid fertilized eggs with the protective effect of the artificial reef, a three-dimensional in-situ propagation system with above-water and underwater linkage is achieved, improving the efficiency of squid propagation, release, and conservation.

[0009] Preferably, the upper part of the rope suspends algae to form an algae propagation zone. The algae are evenly fixed to the upper part of the rope (within the water layer 3-5 meters below the water surface) using a clamping method, with a spacing of 0.5-0.8 meters between several algae. The rope is preferably a relatively thick nylon rope with a length of 15-20 meters. The length of the nylon rope depends on the distance between the propagation reef and the artificial reef group, ideally reaching just to the reef group. The nylon rope clamps a ring (4-5 strands) of algae at intervals of 0.5-0.8 meters, connecting the propagation platform and the underwater artificial reef. Utilizing the squid's affinity for the reef, the squid can be gradually guided into the underwater artificial reef area. The even distribution and appropriate spacing of the algae create a favorable kelp forest environment, providing shelter for newly hatched squid larvae, reducing the risk of predation by predators before entering the artificial reef area, and improving the survival rate of newly hatched squid larvae.

[0010] Preferably, several propagation boxes are evenly arranged around the circumference of the rearing box, with connecting components between the rearing boxes and the propagation boxes. The propagation boxes are arranged around the rearing box as the center. This layout makes full use of space, improves the overall utilization rate of the propagation device, and the connecting components between the propagation boxes and the rearing box ensure structural stability, facilitate management and operation, and provide a more stable growth environment for squid larvae.

[0011] Preferably, the propagation platform is equipped with a buoyancy system above and an anchor below. The buoyancy system allows the propagation platform to float on the water surface, while the anchor securely fixes the platform in a predetermined position, further enhancing the stability of the device and improving the reliability of the propagation effect. Mussels or oyster shells are suspended from ropes at a distance of 3-5 meters to form a shellfish farming area, with algae and shellfish evenly distributed linearly along the entire length of the ropes.

[0012] Preferably, the outer walls of the rearing and propagation tanks are covered with netting, with mesh openings of 2-3 cm. The netting, supported by gravity, stretches and flattens, allowing the mesh to naturally extend and facilitate the free movement of squid larvae into and out of the propagation platform. The netting effectively prevents fertilized eggs and larvae from being preyed upon or disturbed by other marine life. Simultaneously, the 2-3 cm mesh openings ensure free movement of the larvae without hindering their normal growth and activity, providing a safe growth space and improving the survival rate of newly hatched squid larvae.

[0013] Preferably, the rearing tank contains aquatic animals, and the propagation tank contains several propagation cages. Both the rearing and propagation tanks are circular polyethylene deep-water net cages, 40 meters in circumference and 8 meters deep, constructed primarily of polyvinyl chloride pipe, and equipped with anchoring and buoyancy systems. Normal aquaculture activities are conducted within the rearing tanks, such as raising large yellow croakers, which are artificially fed. This process creates localized eutrophication in the water, attracting juvenile fish, shrimp and crab larvae, and plankton, providing natural food for newly hatched squid larvae in adjacent propagation tanks. By raising other aquatic animals within the rearing tanks, the water space can be fully utilized, increasing aquaculture efficiency. Simultaneously, the localized eutrophication created by the aquaculture activities attracts a large number of natural food organisms, providing a rich initial food source for squid larvae, improving their growth rate, health, and survival rate.

[0014] Preferably, the outer wall of the breeding cage is covered with a breeding cage mesh with an aperture of 1.5-2 cm. The breeding cage is primarily made of polyethylene plastic, and is cubic in shape, measuring 0.5m × 0.5m × 1m, with a volume of 0.25 cubic meters. The breeding cage is tightly wrapped with a 1.5-2 cm aperture mesh, allowing the mesh openings to naturally extend and facilitate the free entry and exit of juvenile squid. The mesh further protects the fertilized squid eggs, preventing interference or damage during hatching. The 1.5-2 cm aperture ensures free entry and exit for juvenile squid while effectively blocking predators, providing a safer hatching and growth environment and improving the hatching and survival rates.

[0015] Preferably, the horizontal growth range of the algae propagation zone is 4-5 meters, and the artificial reef system consists of several porous reefs. The artificial reef system is an underwater-laid artificial reef. The porous reef structure provides abundant three-dimensional space for squid larvae. Utilizing the squid's strong spatial awareness and burrowing habits, the artificial reef provides a good protective environment for the propagation of squid larvae. Simultaneously, the good water quality, attached organisms, and abundant food in the reef area provide favorable hydrological and food conditions for newly hatched squid larvae and their subsequent growth and development. The porous reef design fully utilizes underwater space, providing more habitats and hiding places for squid larvae, meeting their ecological needs. Good water quality and abundant food resources contribute to the rapid growth and development of squid larvae, improving their survival rate, and also contributing to the stability and balance of the entire micro-ecosystem.

[0016] A miniature ecosystem includes an upper squid breeding area and a fish farming area, which are connected to an underwater reef area by ropes. Above the ropes is an algae breeding area and below is a shellfish farming area. The algae breeding area is located within the light-transmitting layer of the seawater.

[0017] Preferably, in the algae propagation zone, sunlight is used to form organic matter that serves as food for plankton, creating a small food chain based on algal organic matter, with squid as consumers in this small food chain. This promotes energy flow: algae, as primary producers, convert solar energy into bioenergy, supporting the energy flow of the entire micro-ecosystem and increasing system productivity. It also maintains ecological balance.

[0018] Preferably, the algae propagation zone forms a kelp forest with a horizontal growth range of 4-5 meters. Using a seedling-clamping method, shellfish are suspended, their own weight forming natural sinkers within the rope-like structure. Squid and squid larvae hide within the kelp forest. The three-dimensional structure of the kelp forest and the shellfish provide squid larvae with hiding places from predators (such as large fish), increasing their survival rate. The forest also attracts a large number of small crustaceans and plankton, promoting ecological mutualism. Furthermore, the kelp forest enhances micro-ecological stability by slowing water flow, promoting the sedimentation of organic debris, providing food sources for bottom-dwelling organisms, and forming a more complete micro-ecological cycle.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: By setting up a propagation platform, connecting reefs and artificial reef groups, this invention fully utilizes the propagation activities of fertilized squid eggs in the surface water and the protective effect of underwater artificial reefs. This allows the newly hatched squid larvae to be immediately protected by artificial reefs, thereby realizing the linkage between the above-water and underwater aspects of squid propagation activities and achieving three-dimensional in-situ propagation, thus improving the efficiency of squid propagation, release and conservation. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the proliferation platform of the present invention.

[0022] Attached labels: 1: Propagation box; 2: Propagation cage; 3: Culture box; 4: Connecting reef; 5: Rope; 6: Algae propagation area; 7: Artificial reef; 8: Shellfish culture area. Detailed Implementation

[0023] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0024] Existing squid stock enhancement and release methods typically involve placing fertilized eggs bred under artificial conditions into a stock enhancement cage (2) during the squid breeding season and directly releasing them into the water. Once the squid hatch, they escape directly into the water, achieving resource compensation and restoration. However, newly hatched larvae often lack protection, especially since they are not yet fully adapted to their environment or capable of escaping predators. Many larvae may immediately become prey for other predators, thus compromising the survival rate and actual conservation efficiency of this method. To provide better protection for newly hatched squid larvae, current technologies treat the stock enhancement and release of marine organisms and the deployment of artificial reefs (7) as two relatively independent activities related to marine fisheries resource conservation and marine ranching. The purpose of stock enhancement and release is usually to quickly restore fishery resources, while the laying of artificial reefs is usually to improve the marine habitat environment, attract fish, and conserve biological resources. The two are rarely used together. Even if some species have carried out artificial stock enhancement and release activities in the reef area, they usually release marine seedlings directly into the reef area waters, rarely involving the development of stock enhancement devices and the linkage between above-water and underwater stock enhancement.

[0025] This patent utilizes the squid's strong spatial awareness and its biological characteristic of preferring to burrow into three-dimensional physical spaces. It moves the squid's propagation activity area to artificial reef zone 7, closely integrating squid propagation and release with the deployment of artificial reefs 7 and other marine ranching construction. The propagation and release of fertilized squid eggs takes place in reef zone 7. Through the development of propagation devices, the surface-level squid propagation activities are coupled with the germination effect of the underwater artificial reefs 7. The unique three-dimensional spatial structure of the artificial reefs 7 provides better protection for newly hatched larvae, shielding them from predators. Simultaneously, the improved water quality, proliferation of attached organisms (algae, etc.), and enrichment of plankton and flora brought about by the placement of artificial reefs 7 provide a better living environment and food conditions for squid, laying the foundation for the growth, development, and rapid fattening of newly hatched larvae. This improves the survival rate and propagation efficiency of the released squid, achieving three-dimensional in-situ propagation of squid.

[0026] This patent fully leverages the propagation activities of fertilized squid eggs in the surface water and the protective effect of the underwater artificial reef 7 through the development of a propagation platform, propagation cage 2, and connecting reef 4. This allows the newly hatched squid larvae to be immediately protected by the artificial reef 7, thereby achieving the linkage between the above-water and underwater aspects of squid propagation activities and realizing three-dimensional in-situ propagation, thus improving the efficiency of squid propagation, release, and conservation.

[0027] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the propagation platform, as the core component of the entire device, bears the crucial responsibility of hatching fertilized squid eggs and supporting the early growth of larvae. It mainly consists of a rearing tank 3 and several propagation tanks 1. This combined design fully considers space utilization and functional zoning. Several propagation tanks 1 are evenly arranged around the rearing tank 3. In this embodiment, four propagation tanks 1 are preferably arranged, with the rearing tank 3 as the center and the propagation tanks 1 arranged around its outer ring. This layout greatly improves the space utilization rate of the propagation device, allowing each propagation tank 1 to fully utilize the surrounding water resources. Simultaneously, connecting components are provided between the rearing tank 3 and the propagation tanks 1, which not only ensures structural stability but also facilitates management and operation by staff. During daily rearing and propagation activities, staff can easily move between the rearing tank 3 and the propagation tanks 1 through the connecting components to perform tasks such as feeding and inspection.

[0028] Both culture tank 3 and propagation tank 1 are circular polyethylene deep-water net cages, 40 meters in circumference and 8 meters in depth, constructed primarily of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes and equipped with anchoring and buoyancy systems. PVC pipes possess excellent corrosion resistance and strength, enabling stable long-term use in complex marine environments. The buoyancy system allows the culture tanks to float. Anchoring securely fixes the propagation platform in its designated position, preventing drift due to currents or waves, ensuring the normal operation of propagation activities, further enhancing the stability of the equipment, and improving the reliability of propagation results. In practical applications, even in strong waves, the propagation platform remains firmly anchored above reef area 7, providing reliable protection for squid propagation.

[0029] The breeding tank 3 contains aquatic animals, such as large yellow croaker. The large yellow croaker are fed artificially. Experiments have shown that the feed in the breeding tank can attract some small fish and shrimp, as well as plankton, into the breeding tank. This allows newly hatched squid to stay in the breeding cage for a considerable period of time until they are fully adapted to the marine environment before slowly leaving the breeding cage and entering natural water bodies.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the connecting reef 4 is a crucial link between the propagation platform and the artificial reef group 7. It cleverly utilizes a combination of algae and ropes 5 to provide a guiding channel for the transition of squid larvae from propagation tank 1 to artificial reef group 7. This enables coordinated above-water and underwater squid propagation activities, achieving three-dimensional in-situ propagation and thus improving the efficiency of squid propagation, release, and conservation. The specific structural composition of the connecting reef 4 is meticulously designed and planned. It mainly consists of several ropes 5 suspended circumferentially along the propagation tank 1. In this embodiment, after repeated practical verification and data analysis, the propagation platform preferably uses six ropes 5. These six ropes 5 act as the "skeleton" of the connecting reef 4, evenly distributed around the propagation tank 1, laying the foundation for subsequent algae fixation and the realization of the connecting function.

[0031] Several algae are linearly attached to rope 5 along its length, with the bottom end of rope 5 extending into the artificial reef group 7, allowing connecting reef 4 to link the propagation platform and artificial reef group 7. Rope 5 is preferably a relatively thick nylon rope with a length of 15-20m. Nylon rope has good strength and flexibility, and can withstand the weight of the algae and the impact of water currents and waves in the complex marine environment, ensuring the stability of connecting reef 4. The length of the nylon rope is determined based on the distance between the propagation reef and artificial reef group 7, ideally just reaching the artificial reef group 7, allowing the squid larvae to swim smoothly along connecting reef 4 towards artificial reef group 7.

[0032] The algae are secured using a clamping method with nylon ropes spaced 0.5-0.8 meters apart. In practice, workers first prepare the nylon ropes, ensuring they are of good quality and the correct length. Then, manually or with the aid of a special seedling clamp, they twist and separate the strands of the rope to create gaps. Next, algae seedlings, 30-50 cm in length, are inserted into these gaps from the roots. After releasing the rope, the gaps narrow, tightly clamping the algae roots and securing them to the rope. This allows the algae to be evenly distributed on the ropes. After a period of growth, they can reach a horizontal coverage area of ​​4-5 meters, forming an algal forest. Kelp is the preferred algae variety.

[0033] In another implementation, through long-term marine ecological environment experiments and field observation studies, we found that the water transparency in the artificial reef area exhibits significant regional characteristics, generally reaching 3-5 meters. This optical characteristic provides important environmental evidence for the vertical distribution of marine organisms. Considering the growth characteristics of kelp, it grows more vigorously in the upper water layers with sufficient sunlight, while in the deeper water layers, due to the reduced light intensity, the growth of algae is significantly poor. Based on this biological characteristic, we adopted a layered suspension strategy when designing the bio-attachment scheme for the artificial reef: algae are specifically suspended in the upper half of the nylon rope, in the light-transmitting layer at a depth of 3-5 meters, to fully utilize the light resources in this area and promote the healthy growth of kelp; while shellfish are suspended in the lower half of the nylon rope, in the area where the water depth exceeds 5 meters. This design not only considers the ecological niche needs of different organisms but also has multiple ecological benefits. The filter feeding of shellfish can improve the water quality of the micro-ecosystem, reduce the concentration of suspended solids in the water, and improve the growth environment for squid; the algae (preferably kelp) in the upper layer produce oxygen and organic matter through photosynthesis, which can provide a food source for the shellfish in the lower layer, while the metabolic products of the shellfish can serve as nutrients for the kelp, forming a virtuous cycle of small-scale matter. This layered suspension design improves the space utilization efficiency of the connecting reef 4.

[0034] A novel micro-ecosystem based on a three-dimensional in-situ squid propagation device in an artificial reef area achieves a win-win situation for both ecological and economic benefits by constructing a multi-layered ecological structure. The system mainly consists of two parts: an algae propagation zone and a squid propagation zone, forming a complete marine micro-ecosystem.

[0035] In algae propagation zone 6, kelp, which has high economic value, is the preferred species for cultivation. This kelp forms horizontal kelp forests 4-5 meters long, and vertically constructs multi-layered, three-dimensional growth spaces. These kelp forests not only provide basic productivity for the entire micro-ecosystem but also create a complex three-dimensional habitat. Through photosynthesis, kelp converts solar energy into organic matter, including dissolved organic carbon and particulate organic matter, providing a rich source of nutrients for phytoplankton and zooplankton.

[0036] Within this miniature ecosystem lies a small, multi-level food chain based on algal organic matter. Primary consumers include various planktonic and benthic algae-eating organisms, while secondary consumers consist of small fish and crustaceans. Cuttlefish occupy the top of this food chain as advanced consumers. Particularly noteworthy is the way cuttlefish larvae cleverly hide within the complex structures of mollusk attachment sites or kelp forests, thus securing ample food while effectively evading predators.

[0037] The photosynthetic process of kelp forests produces large amounts of dissolved organic matter (DOM) and particulate organic matter (POM), which become important nutrients for microorganisms and plankton. The abundance of phytoplankton attracts zooplankton, which in turn attracts small fish, forming a complete trophic cascade effect.

[0038] From an ecological perspective, this system offers multiple benefits: First, the kelp forest can perform photosynthesis; second, its complex three-dimensional structure increases habitat diversity, attracting a variety of organisms; and third, the efficiency of material cycling and energy flow within the small ecosystem is significantly improved, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem. From an economic perspective, mature algae such as kelp can be harvested for direct economic benefits, while the proliferation of squid resources also brings considerable fishery income.

[0039] This micro-ecosystem design mimics the structure and function of natural micro-ecosystems, accelerating ecological processes through human intervention to ultimately achieve ecological mutual benefit. The successful operation of the system demonstrates that human intervention and natural processes can coexist harmoniously, providing new ideas and technical approaches for the construction of marine ranches.

[0040] This micro-ecosystem is a multi-layered, three-dimensional marine propagation model. Through scientific spatial layout and biological community configuration, it achieves efficient propagation of squid resources and sustainable utilization of the marine micro-ecosystem. The entire system is divided into an upper squid propagation zone and a fish farming zone, an algae propagation zone 6, a shellfish farming zone 8, and a bottom artificial reef zone. These functional zones are interconnected by devices such as ropes 5, forming a complete vertical ecological chain.

[0041] Algae propagation zone 6 is connected to the upper layer by ropes and is located in the light-transmitting layer of the seawater (usually 3-5 meters deep) to ensure sufficient sunlight to promote algal photosynthesis. This area mainly cultivates large economic algae, such as kelp, forming a dense "algae forest." The algae forest not only absorbs nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the water, improving water quality, but also releases oxygen through photosynthesis, increasing dissolved oxygen levels and providing basic productivity for the entire micro-ecosystem.

[0042] Below the algae seedlings, on ropes, is a shellfish farming area 8, used for cultivating filter-feeding shellfish such as oysters, scallops, or mussels. These shellfish can efficiently filter phytoplankton, organic debris, and microorganisms from the water, while their shells and attachment sites provide ideal hiding places for squid larvae, preventing them from being preyed upon by natural enemies.

[0043] The lowest level of the system is the artificial reef area, typically constructed of concrete reefs, discarded ship hulls, or rocks, providing habitat for benthic organisms (such as crabs, sea cucumbers, and benthic fish) and natural hiding places for squid. The complex structure of the reef attracts small fish and crustaceans, which serve as natural food for squid and promote the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling. Furthermore, the reef area slows water flow, promotes the settling of suspended particles, and improves the bottom ecosystem.

[0044] Functions and Benefits of Micro-Ecosystems: 1. Optimization of Material Cycling and Energy Flow: Algae fix CO2 through photosynthesis, forming organic matter that supports the growth of plankton and filter-feeding shellfish; shellfish filter-feed plankton, reducing water turbidity, increasing light utilization, and promoting algae growth; squid and fish, as advanced consumers, regulate prey populations, maintaining the stability of the micro-ecosystem. 2. Enhanced Biodiversity: The three-dimensional structure creates diverse micro-habitats, attracting organisms from different ecological niches and increasing species richness; juvenile squid, fish, and shellfish form a symbiotic relationship, improving resource utilization efficiency. 3. Economic and Ecological Win-Win: Algae and shellfish can be harvested regularly, bringing direct economic benefits; the natural proliferation of squid and fish resources reduces the cost of artificial feeding, aligning with the direction of sustainable fisheries development.

[0045] The crucial role of Connecting Reef 4 in connecting the propagation reef and the underwater artificial reef 7 is manifested in several important aspects. On the one hand, the even distribution and suitable spacing of algae create a favorable kelp forest environment. The main function of the kelp forest is to guide squid into the artificial reef by utilizing their reef-loving habits; it can also serve as a concealment for juvenile squid during their migration from the propagation tank to the artificial reef.

[0046] The kelp forest, with its dense foliage and complex structure, provides ideal shelter for squid larvae. When threatened by predators, the larvae can quickly hide within the kelp forest, using the kelp branches and leaves as cover, making it difficult for predators to find them and effectively protecting their lives. Furthermore, utilizing the squid's unique reef-loving behavior, the connecting reef 4 becomes an important passage guiding squid into the underwater artificial reef area 7. Through long-term evolution, squid have developed a preference for complex environments such as reefs, preferring to inhabit, forage, and reproduce near reefs.

[0047] After the squid larvae hatch in the propagation tank 1, they instinctively explore their surroundings. At this time, the algae in connecting reef 4 and the ropes 5 act as a "guided path" for them. Following connecting reef 4, the squid larvae gradually swim towards the artificial reef group 7. During this process, they continuously adapt to changes in the natural environment, improving their survival capabilities. As the squid larvae continue swimming, they can quickly enter the underwater artificial reef area 7, where they begin a new growth stage, enjoying the abundant resources and excellent protection provided by the artificial reef group 7, further enhancing the effectiveness of squid propagation.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the artificial reef group 7 is an important habitat for the growth and development of squid larvae, providing them with abundant three-dimensional space and a favorable ecological environment. The artificial reef group 7 consists of several porous artificial reefs 7, which are laid underwater. The design of the porous artificial reefs 7 is ingenious, fully considering the biological characteristics of squid. Squid have a strong spatial awareness and a tendency to burrow; the numerous holes and complex structure of the porous reefs 7 provide ample hiding places for squid larvae. At the same time, the porous artificial reefs 7 increase the contact area between the water and the reefs, promoting the circulation and exchange of nutrients in the water, which is beneficial to the growth and reproduction of attached organisms.

[0049] Artificial Reef 7 boasts a favorable aquatic environment due to the presence of the porous reef, which promotes water flow and purification. Furthermore, the diverse array of organisms attached to Reef 7, along with the abundant surrounding food resources, provides ideal hydrological and food conditions for the growth and development of newly hatched squid larvae. Within the Reef 7 network, squid larvae can freely move between the various openings, searching for food and avoiding predators. This favorable ecological environment contributes to their rapid growth and development, improving their survival rate and overall growth quality.

[0050] The outer walls of breeding tank 3 and propagation tank 1 are equipped with netting with mesh openings of 2-3 cm. The netting, supported by gravity, stretches flat, allowing the mesh to naturally extend and facilitate the free movement of squid larvae into and out of the propagation platform. This netting effectively prevents fertilized eggs and larvae from being preyed upon or disturbed by other marine life. The 2-3 cm mesh size is ideal, ensuring free entry and exit for the larvae without hindering their normal growth and activity. In practical application, other large predators cannot pass through the mesh to enter propagation tank 1, while the larvae, after reaching a certain stage of growth, can easily swim out of propagation tank 1 through the mesh and enter the connecting reef 4 and artificial reef 7.

[0051] The outer wall of breeding cage 2 is covered with a mesh cover with an aperture of 1.5-2 cm. The breeding cage is primarily made of polyethylene plastic, is cubic in shape, and measures 0.5m × 0.5m × 1m, with a volume of 0.25 cubic meters. The 1.5-2 cm mesh cover tightly encloses the breeding cage 2, allowing the mesh openings to naturally extend and facilitate the free entry and exit of larvae. The mesh further provides a protective barrier for the fertilized squid eggs, preventing interference or damage from external factors. The 1.5-2 cm aperture ensures free entry and exit for larvae while effectively blocking the intrusion of small predators, providing a safer hatching environment and significantly improving the hatching and survival rates of the larvae.

[0052] The algae are evenly fixed to rope 5 using a clamping method, with a spacing of 0.5-0.8 meters between several algae. The algae play multiple roles in the entire propagation system. They are not only an important component of the connecting reef 4, providing food and shelter for squid larvae, but rope 5 is made of relatively thick nylon rope, the length of which is determined by the distance between the propagation reef and the artificial reef group 7, ideally reaching just to the artificial reef group 7. The relatively thick nylon rope has sufficient strength and abrasion resistance to withstand the tension of algae and water currents in the marine environment for extended periods. At the same time, the flexibility of the nylon rope allows it to sway naturally with the fluctuations of the water current, providing a relatively stable growth environment for the algae and squid larvae.

[0053] A method for deploying a three-dimensional in-situ propagation device for squid in artificial reef areas.

[0054] (I) Preparation stage.

[0055] During the breeding season of the Japanese squid (Sepia spp.) in natural sea areas, from April to May, the first step is to select a suitable artificial reef area (Sebastes spp. 7). The selection of this area involves choosing a reef area within the squid's traditional distribution area and the three sea areas and one passageway, selecting a region with a large stocking density of artificial reefs (Sebastes spp. 7), reefs over 10 years old, with good aquatic plant attachment, and relatively abundant plankton. This artificial reef area (Sebastes spp. 7) should have good water quality, abundant food resources, and suitable gentle currents and lighting conditions. The breeding platform is then floated on the artificial reef area (Sebastes spp. 7) using a buoyancy device, and anchored to stabilize the platform in the predetermined position.

[0056] (ii) Placement stage of fertilized eggs and connecting reef 4.

[0057] Freshly bred squid fertilized eggs (attached to the attachment substrate) are placed into squid propagation cage 2. The attachment substrate with the fertilized eggs is secured to propagation cage 2 using rope 5 and wire to ensure stable hatching of the fertilized eggs. Then, propagation cage 2 containing the squid eggs is suspended from the water surface at a depth of 3-4 meters using rope 5. Six interconnected reefs 4, each containing algae and composed of thick nylon rope 5, are evenly suspended around the circular propagation platform. Staff must carefully check the algae's attachment, ensuring each algae is firmly secured to the nylon rope and evenly spaced.

[0058] (III) Larval growth and transfer stage.

[0059] After the fertilized squid eggs hatch into squid larvae in the propagation tank 1, the newly hatched larvae escape through the propagation cage 2 and propagation tank 1 into the water of the connecting reef area 4 (based on preliminary experiments, they generally fatten up near the propagation platform using the abundant biological food available there for a period of time, and only leave after fully adapting to the propagation environment). In the connecting reef area 4, the squid larvae can find food and avoid predators under the protection of kelp and algae, gradually adapting to the natural environment. As the squid larvae grow, they will gradually enter the underwater artificial reef group 7 along the ropes 5 and algae of the connecting reef 4. In the artificial reef group 7, the squid larvae can continue to grow and develop using the abundant space and favorable ecological environment provided by the porous artificial reef 7. The porous artificial reef 7 provides rich three-dimensional space for the squid larvae. Utilizing the squid's strong spatial awareness and burrowing nature, the artificial reef 7 provides a good protective place for the propagated squid larvae. Meanwhile, the relatively good water quality, attached organisms, and food abundance in Area 7 of the artificial reef can also provide better hydrological and food conditions for the growth and development of newly hatched squid larvae.

[0060] Obviously, the above embodiments are merely illustrative examples for clear explanation and are not intended to limit the implementation. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations here. However, obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a reef area, characterized in that it comprises a breeding platform, the breeding platform comprising a breeding cage and a plurality of breeding cages, a reef group being arranged below the breeding platform, and a connecting reef being arranged between the breeding platform and the reef group. The connecting reef comprises a plurality of ropes arranged along the circumference of the breeding cage, the upper part of the ropes being provided with an algal breeding area, and the lower part being provided with a shellfish breeding area, and the bottom end of the ropes being arranged in the reef group. The upper half of the ropes is provided with algae to form an algal breeding area, and the algae are uniformly fixed on the upper part of the ropes in a clamping manner, and the distance between the algae in the water layer 3-5 meters below the water surface is 0.5-0.8 meters.

2. The three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a fish reef area according to claim 1, characterized in that, A plurality of breeding cages are uniformly arranged along the circumference of the breeding cage, and a connecting piece is arranged between the breeding cage and the breeding cage, and a buoyancy system is arranged above the breeding platform, and an anchor is arranged below the breeding platform.

3. The three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a fish reef area according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ropes are suspended with mussels or oyster shells 3-5 meters below to form a shellfish breeding area, and the algae and shellfish are linearly and uniformly distributed along the full length of the ropes.

4. The three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a fish reef area according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer wall of the breeding cage and the breeding cage is provided with a net cage net, and the aperture of the net cage net is 2-3 cm.

5. The three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a fish reef area according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The breeding cage is provided with aquatic animals, and the breeding cage is provided with a plurality of breeding cages, and the outer wall of the breeding cage is wrapped with a breeding cage net, and the aperture of the breeding cage net is 1.5-2 cm.

6. The three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a fish reef area according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The horizontal growth range of the algal breeding area is 4-5 meters, and the reef group is composed of a plurality of porous reefs.

7. The three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for squid in a fish reef area according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, It comprises a squid breeding area and a fish breeding area arranged above, and is connected to the reef area through the ropes and the seabed, and a shellfish breeding area is arranged below the algal breeding area on the ropes, and the algal breeding area is arranged within the light transmission layer of seawater.

8. A micro-ecosystem using the three-dimensional in-situ breeding device for Sepia in a fish reef area according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The algal breeding area uses light to form organic matter as food for plankton, forming a small food chain based on algal seedlings, and the squid is the consumer of the food chain.

9. A micro-ecosystem according to claim 8, wherein, The algal breeding area forms a kelp forest, and the horizontal growth range is 4-5 meters, and the squid larvae hide in the shellfish, and the squid and the squid larvae hide in the kelp forest.

10. A micro-ecosystem according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, ​

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