Commercial post larval collector habitat

Abstract

The collector habitat device comprises panels of non-biodegradable and / or synthetic fibrous material set in durable weatherproof frames and attached to a base; when placed in, the panels hang within the water column providing numerous parallel settlement surfaces for post-larvae. A float assembly, optionally attached to the opposite side of the base from the panels, allows the device to float just below the water's surface. The collector habitat device also incorporates a guard, surrounding the panels, with apertures to allow settlement-stage post-larvae access to the settlement surfaces, while preventing larger organisms and potential predators from gaining access. The collector habitat device also, optionally, incorporates an optionally removable / re-attachable reservoir hung below the guard; and an optional olfactory attractant delivery device.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 815,638, filed Jun. 22, 2006, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Most of the world's fisheries are threatened by unsustainable fishing practices and pressures. Many fisheries target the adult life phase of the target species as the commercial resource. This is economically effective as long as fishing systems and pressure do not jeopardise the biological integrity of the wild stocks of the target species. However, with many species of marine organism, the individuals that live long enough to become adults numerically represent only a very small percentage of the reproductive effort of the wild population. This small percentage is a result of high mortality rates which occur during the early stages of growth development of the species. [0003] The growth development of many crustaceans and fin f...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] The present invention provides a commercial, post larval collector habitat for settlement and collection of post-larval crustaceans or fin fish, e.g., spiny lobster. The materials and construction of the present collector habitat and its ease of construction and use are such that it can be readily used in experimental-commercial or fully-commercial settlement stage harvest fisheries operations.

[0013] The post-larvae collector habitat of the present invention is made of durable, sturdy weatherproof materials, such that the device is able to withstand long periods of time submersed in harshest of open water conditions. Furthermore, the present invention includes collector habitats designed to be easily stored or loaded and unloaded from small or large commercial fishing boats.

Problems solved by technology

Most of the world's fisheries are threatened by unsustainable fishing practices and pressures.

However, with many species of marine organism, the individuals that live long enough to become adults numerically represent only a very small percentage of the reproductive effort of the wild population.

This small percentage is a result of high mortality rates which occur during the early stages of growth development of the species.

Because of their cost of manufacture, materials used and / or general design, past designs of post-larval collectors have not been successful for commercial use; being either too costly, not sturdy enough or impractical for large-scale use.

Prior collector designs have encountered issues with ‘sea-worthiness’, unable to withstand harsh sea conditions for long periods of time.

Sturdier constructions have proven too costly for commercial use.

Additionally, prior designs have not satisfactorily addressed the issues of attracting and retaining post-larvae stage organisms and also result in lower yields as organisms are lost during harvesting.

Images