Aquaculture system and method for shrimp or other crustaceans

Abstract

A method comprising: (a) providing a multi-layer closed conduit aquaculture enclosure; (b) stocking the enclosure with shrimp; and (c) at least 12.5 kg / M 3 The standing biomass of the enclosure volume is grown. Other systems and methods are also disclosed. Some disclosed systems are deployed underwater, such as under an ocean, pond, river, or estuary.

Description

[0001] Inventors: Neder SNIR and Gary Myers

[0002] Details of the relevant application:

[0003] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 645,304, filed on March 20, 2018, and entitled AQUACULTURE SYSTEM FOR SHRIMP OR OTHER CRUSTACEANS; which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention is in the field of aquaculture systems and methods. Background of the Invention

[0006] The term shrimp is used to refer to various decapod crustaceans. Shrimp encompasses any of the groups having an elongated body and a predominantly planktonic manner of locomotion - the most common being the infraorders Caridea and Dendrobranchiata. In some cases, shrimp is used more narrowly and may be limited to the infraorder Caridea, to smaller species of either group, or to marine species. Under a broader definition, shrimp is synonymous with prawn and encompasses a protruding-eyed planktonic crustacean with a long narrow muscular tail, long whiskers, and elongated legs. In the broadest use, any small crustacean that resembles a shrimp is included. For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, the term "shrimp" should be interpreted in its broadest sense.

[0007] Shrimp swim forward by paddling with swimmers on the underside of their abdomen, although their escape response is usually repeated bouncing, with the tail driving them backward very quickly. While the walking legs of crabs and lobsters are sturdy, the legs of shrimp are thin and fragile, used primarily for perching.

[0008] Shrimp are widespread and abundant, with thousands of species adapted to a wide range of habitats. Shrimp are found feeding near the seafloor along most coasts and estuaries, as well as in rivers and lakes. Some shrimp species flip away from the seafloor and dive into the sediment to avoid predation.

[0009] Many species of shrimp are widely caught and farmed for human consumption because of their muscular tails, which are edible. Commercial shrimp species provide an industry worth $50 billion per year. In 2010, total commercial shrimp production was nearly 7 million tons. Shrimp aquaculture became more common in the 1980s. By 2007, harvests from shrimp farms exceeded traditional harvests from oceans and lakes.

[0010] When shrimp are caught in the wild, bycatch is a serious problem.

[0011] As the word shrimp implies, many species are small, about 2 centimeters (0.79 in) long, but some are over 25 centimeters (9.8 in). Larger shrimp are often called prawns. Summary of the invention

[0012] A broad aspect of the invention relates to increasing aquaculture production.

[0013] An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to stacked growth surfaces in crustacean aquaculture systems. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the "floor" surface in the stack serves as the ceiling for the layer immediately below it in the stack. In these embodiments, the distance between the layers in the stack is effectively zero. In some embodiments, each layer in the stack is flooded from floor to ceiling. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, each layer in the stack is separated by one or more vertical partitions to form compartments or tubes. In some embodiments, there is fluid communication only between the compartments or tubes at one end.

[0014] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, the terms "tube", "enclosure" and "compartment" refer to a volume defined by two continuous growth surfaces in a stack and two vertical walls in contact therewith, respectively. 3 " represents the volume of the tube or enclosure in the system.

[0015] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, the term “M 2 " represents the area of ​​the support surface or the area of ​​the floor layout space covered by the stack of support surfaces referred to.

[0016] Another aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to using water level differentials to ensure a desired flow direction and / or flow rate along a stacked growth surface in a crustacean aquaculture system. According to these embodiments, the height differential between the upper surface of the liquid in the common supply reservoir and the discharge port in the common effluent tank contributes to the behavior of the system.

[0017] It will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solutions to the technical problems associated with enabling the production of edible crustaceans, such as shrimp, at all locations close to areas where the shrimp are eaten.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, it will be appreciated that the various aspects described above relate to solutions to technical problems associated with increasing the yield of crustacean biomass per unit volume of production space.

[0019] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided, comprising: providing a multi-layer closed conduit aquaculture enclosure; stocking shrimp in the enclosure; and feeding at least 12.5 kg / M 3 In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the method comprises harvesting at least 450 kg / M 3 Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method comprises harvesting at least 18.8 kg / M at the end of each growing period. 3 Paddock volume. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method comprises harvesting at a frequency of every 120 days or less.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an aquaculture system comprising: a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces, each surface connected to a side wall and having an inlet side and an outlet side; a plurality of inlet pipes, each inlet pipe being in fluid communication with a common reservoir and with the inlet side of one of the support surfaces in the vertical array; and an effluent tank being in fluid communication with all the outlet sides of the vertical array of support surfaces and having one or more drain holes, the drain holes being located above the level of an uppermost support surface in the array of support surfaces. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an aquaculture system comprising: a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces, each surface connected to a side wall and having an inlet side and an outlet side; a common reservoir being in fluid communication with the inlet side of all the support surfaces in the vertical array; and an effluent tank being in fluid communication with all the outlet sides of the vertical array of support surfaces and having one or more drain holes, the drain holes being located above the level of an uppermost support surface in the array of support surfaces. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, any of these aquaculture systems includes one or more vertical dividers parallel to the sidewalls of each of the horizontal support surfaces, dividing each support surface into two or more tubes; wherein each of the plurality of inlet tubes is in fluid communication with the common reservoir and with the inlet side of one of the tubes. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, any of the systems includes a waste removal port near the bottom of the effluent tank. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system includes a valve operable to open and close the waste removal port. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system includes a pump operable to circulate water from the common reservoir through the plurality of inlet tubes to the support surface. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system includes a control mechanism operable to differentially regulate the flow rate from the pump through each of the plurality of inlet tubes. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system includes a plurality of flow sensors, each of which is located in an inlet tube of the plurality of inlet tubes or on a growth substrate, each sensor providing an output signal indicating the flow rate to the control mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system includes a pump operable to collect water emanating from the drain holes and return it to the common reservoir.

[0021] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an aquaculture method, the method comprising: filling a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces with water and placing crustaceans with the water; flowing water from a common reservoir through a plurality of inlet pipes, each inlet pipe being in fluid communication with the common reservoir and with the inlet side of one of the support surfaces in the vertical array; collecting the effluent of the water from the vertical array of horizontal support surfaces in an effluent tank; and discharging the water from the effluent tank through one or more discharge holes, the discharge holes being located above the level of the uppermost support surface in the array of support surfaces. In some embodiments, the method comprises dividing each support surface into two or more tubes; wherein each of the plurality of inlet tubes is in fluid communication with the common reservoir and with the inlet side of one of the tubes. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method comprises removing waste via a waste removal port near the bottom of the effluent tank. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method comprises pumping water from a common reservoir through a plurality of inlet pipes. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method comprises differentially regulating the flow rate from the pump through each of the plurality of inlet pipes. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method includes monitoring the flow rate in each of the plurality of inlet tubes.Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the method includes collecting water emanating from the drain hole and returning it to a common reservoir.

[0022] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an aquaculture method, the method comprising: filling an upper reservoir of height A with an aquaculture medium;

[0023] The culture medium is made to flow through a plurality of pipes, each pipe being respectively connected to one of the plurality of stacked culture containers; and the culture medium is collected in a common effluent tank having one or more discharge holes with a height a; wherein the height a is lower than the height A.

[0024] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a serial array of one or more aquaculture systems as described above, wherein the effluent tank of one system serves as a common reservoir for the next system in the array.

[0025] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided, the method comprising: tilting a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces to move crustaceans residing thereon to a common effluent tank; and collecting the crustaceans from the effluent tank. In some embodiments, the collecting is through a drain.

[0026] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an aquaculture system is provided, comprising: a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces, each surface connected to a solid side wall and having an inlet side and an outlet side; and a mesh covering the inlet side and the outlet side, the size of the holes of the mesh being to hold shrimp on the support surface. In some embodiments, the system comprises one or more solid vertical dividers parallel to the side walls of each horizontal support surface, which divide each support surface into two or more tubes. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system comprises one or more floats having sufficient buoyancy to prevent the system from sinking beyond a desired degree when deployed in a body of water. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system comprises one or more ballasts, the weight of which is sufficient to prevent the system from floating beyond a desired degree when deployed in a body of water. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the system comprises one or more anchor attachment points.

[0027] In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an aquaculture system is provided, comprising: a multi-layer stacked growth surface for crustaceans; and a textured substrate applied to the growth surface. In some embodiments, the textured substrate comprises artificial grass. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the textured substrate comprises a hatching substrate.

[0028] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Although suitable methods and materials are described below, methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present invention. In the event of conflict, the patent specification (including its definition) shall prevail. All materials, methods and embodiments are illustrative only and are not intended to be restrictive.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "comprise" and "include" or grammatical variations thereof should be deemed to specify the inclusion of the stated features, integers, actions, or components without excluding the addition of one or more additional features, integers, actions, components, or groups thereof. As defined in the Manual of Patent Examining Procedures of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, this term is broader than the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" and includes the terms "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of." Thus, any statement that an embodiment "comprises" or "includes" features is a specific statement that the sub-embodiment "consists essentially of" and / or "consists of" the described features.

[0030] When used herein, the phrase "consisting essentially of" or their grammatical variations should be deemed to specify stated features, integers, steps, or components, but does not exclude the addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof, but only when said additional features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, apparatus, or method.

[0031] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase "suitable for use" imposes additional structural limitations on the previously listed components.

[0032] The term "methodology" refers to ways, means, techniques, and processes for accomplishing a given task, including but not limited to those ways, means, techniques, and processes known to practitioners of architecture and / or computer science or readily developable from known ways, means, techniques, and processes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] In order to understand the invention and see how it is carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, by way of non-limiting examples only. In the accompanying drawings, identical and similar structures, elements, or portions thereof, that appear in more than one drawing are generally labeled with the same or similar reference numerals in the drawings in which they appear. The dimensions of the components and features shown in the drawings are selected primarily for convenience and clarity of representation and are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are:

[0034] Figure 1a is a front view (inlet side) of a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 1b yes Figure 1a A lateral cross section of an exemplary system along line A--A;

[0036] Figure 1c yes Figure 1a A top perspective view of an exemplary system is shown;

[0037] Figure 1d yes Figure 1a A top perspective view of an exemplary system is shown;

[0038] Figure 1e yes Figure 1d A front cross section of an exemplary system along line B--B;

[0039] Figure 2 is a simplified flow chart of methods according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 is a simplified flow chart of methods according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4a is a simplified flow chart of methods according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4b is with Figure 4a A schematic diagram of an exemplary system configuration compatible with the method shown;

[0043] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system configuration according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system configuration according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and

[0045] Figure 6 is a simplified flow chart of methods according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of a system according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to aquaculture systems and methods.

[0048] In particular, some embodiments of the invention may be used in the commercial production of shrimp or other crustaceans.

[0049] The principles and operation of systems and / or methods according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying descriptions.

[0050] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the application of the present invention is not limited to the details set forth in the following description or illustrated by the examples. The present invention can have other embodiments or can be practiced or executed in various ways. In addition, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as limiting purposes.

[0051] System Overview

[0052] Figure 1a is a front view (inlet side) of a crustacean aquaculture system, generally indicated at 100 , according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 1b yes Figure 1a A transverse cross-section of the exemplary system shown in FIG. 1 is generally indicated at 101 and is represented by line AA.

[0054] Figure 1c yes Figure 1aA top perspective view of an exemplary system depicted in FIG. 1 , generally indicated at 102 .

[0055] Figure 1d yes Figure 1a A top perspective view of an exemplary system depicted in FIG. 1 , generally indicated at 103 .

[0056] Figure 1e yes Figure 1d A front cross-section of the exemplary system shown in FIG. 1 is shown generally at 104 , indicated by line BB.

[0057] Referring now to 1a; 1b; 1c; 1d and 1e simultaneously, the exemplary crustacean aquaculture system depicted relies on stacking of horizontal support surfaces 3 to increase the number of cells per M. 3 Paddock volume and per M 2 Production / layout space for the production of farmed crustaceans. In the depicted embodiment, there are three vertically arranged horizontal support surfaces 3, each surrounded by vertical partitions 120 and further divided into three parallel tubes by further vertical partitions 120. Figure 1e As shown, this will produce a 3×3 parallel tube matrix.

[0058] Although described using a 3×3 matrix, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention employ 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, or 500, or intermediate or greater numbers of horizontal support surfaces 3. Alternatively or additionally, various exemplary embodiments of the present invention employ 5, 10, 20, 25, 35, 50, 75, or 100, or intermediate or greater numbers of vertical walls 120 to divide the horizontal support surface 3. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the vertical walls 120 are solid.

[0059] Reference now Figure 1a , each tube is supplied with water by an inlet tube 2. Again, in the exemplary 3×3 matrix, there are nine inlet tubes 2. However, other embodiments will have other numbers of inlet tubes. In the embodiment shown, each inlet tube 2 provides a flow of water from an inlet end 130 along the support surface 3 to an outlet end 132 ( Figure 1b ). In some embodiments, the water stream is enriched with particulate food and / or nutrients in solution.

[0060] In the embodiment shown, the inlet pipe 2 is connected from a common reservoir 110 ( Figure 1a). In some embodiments, pump 150 pumps water from reservoir 110 through tube 2. In some embodiments, control mechanism 160 differentially regulates the flow from pump 150 through each inlet tube 2. In some embodiments, control mechanism 160 receives feedback signals from flow sensors in tube 2 and / or elsewhere in the system and regulates the flow in one or more tubes 2 and / or across surface 3 based on those signals.

[0061] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, system 100 operates without tube 2. According to these embodiments, common reservoir 110 is in fluid communication with inlet side 130 of all support surfaces 3 in the vertical array.

[0062] Outlet port 132( Figure 1b ) accumulates in a common effluent tank 4. In some embodiments, the effluent tank 4 provides fluid communication between adjacent tubes at the same level and / or on the vertical support surface 3. According to some of these embodiments, shrimp can move freely between different compartments through the effluent tank 4. According to other embodiments, a screen is assembled at the end of each tube to prevent shrimp from moving from tube to tube. In the depicted embodiment, the effluent tank 4 is equipped with a waste removal port 6. The waste removal port 6 allows the effluent tank 4 to be used as a settling tank. The settling tank helps to easily remove solid waste from the system and / or helps to reduce wear on pumps in other parts of the system. In the embodiment shown, the valve 140 is operable to close / open the port 6. The discharge hole 5 (at Figure 1c The height of the drain hole 5 determines the height of the water in the system. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the water flowing out of the drain hole 5 is collected and recycled to the reservoir 110. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the recycling uses a pump and / or airlift.

[0063] Exemplary Aquaculture Methods

[0064] Figure 2 is a simplified flow chart of an aquaculture method, generally indicated at 200, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] The exemplary method 200 depicted includes providing 210 a multi-layer closed conduit aquaculture enclosure, placing 220 shrimp in the enclosure, and feeding 220 shrimp at a rate of at least 12.5 kg / m 3 The standing biomass of the paddock volume grows 230. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the standing biomass is 15 kg / M of the paddock volume. 3 、20kg / M 3 、25kg / M 3 、35kg / M 3 、40kg / M3 、50kg / M 3 、75kg / M 3 or 100kg / m 3 or medium or greater standing biomass. It should be noted that during the practice of method 200, substantially all of the paddock volume is filled with water. This represents a significant departure from many previously available alternatives, in which the space between growth surfaces is much greater than the water depth.

[0066] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, practice of method 200 produces an annual harvest 260 of 50 kg / M 3 、100kg / M 3 、150kg / M 3 、200kg / M 3 , 250kg / , 300kg / M 3 、450kg / M 3 、500kg / M 3 、600kg / M 3 、700kg / M 3 or intermediate or greater annual production.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments of method 200, the growing period is less than 1 year. In some of these embodiments, method 200 includes harvesting 240 at least 8 kg / M at the end of each growing period. 3 、10kg / M 3 、15kg / M 3 、18.8kg / M 3 、20kg / M 3 、30kg / M 3 、35kg / M 3 、45kg / M 3 、50kg / M 3 、55kg / M 3 、60kg / M 3 or 65kg / m 3 In some of these embodiments, method 200 includes harvesting 250 at a frequency of every 120 days or less.

[0068] Exemplary Aquaculture Systems

[0069] Reference again Figure 1a , 1b, 1c, 1d and 1e: Some embodiments of the present invention are an aquaculture system that includes a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces 3. In the depicted embodiment, each surface 3 is connected to a side wall 120 and has an inlet side 130 and an outlet side 132. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the side wall 120 is solid. In the depicted embodiment, the system includes a plurality of inlet pipes 2. In the embodiment shown, each inlet pipe 2 is in fluid communication with a common reservoir 110 and the inlet side of one of the support surfaces 3 in the vertical array. In the depicted embodiment, the system includes an effluent tank 4 that is in fluid communication with all outlet sides 132 in the vertical array of support surfaces 3. The exemplary effluent tank 4 shown has one or more discharge holes 5 that are located above the level of the uppermost support surface 3 in the array of support surfaces. Although the surfaces 3 and walls 120 are depicted as discrete units in the figures, in some embodiments, the surfaces 3 and walls 120 are provided as circular, rectangular, hexagonal or triangular tubes or pipes. Alternatively or additionally, in many embodiments the vertical distance (height) between the support surfaces 3 varies in the range of 2 cm to 60 cm.For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, the term "horizontal" means that the surfaces are at an angle of 0° to 45°.

[0070] In the depicted embodiment, the system includes one or more vertical partitions parallel to the side walls of each horizontal support surface (see Figure 1e 120a and 120b), which divide each support surface 3 into two or more tubes. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the dividers 120a and 120b are solid. According to these embodiments, each of the plurality of inlet tubes is in fluid communication with a common reservoir and with the inlet side 130 of one of the tubes. This tube structure is Figure 1a and 1c , although the tubes themselves are hidden in these views.

[0071] In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, a common reservoir 110 is in fluid communication with the inlet side 130 of all support surfaces 3 in a vertical array. This configuration eliminates the need for tube 2.

[0072] In the depicted embodiment, the system includes a waste removal port 6 near the bottom of the effluent tank 4. In some embodiments, the system includes a valve 140 operable to open and close the waste removal port 6.

[0073] The depicted embodiment also includes an optional pump 150 that is operable to circulate water from the common reservoir 110 through the plurality of inlet pipes 2 to the support surface 3. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the pump 150 operates on the principle of gas lift. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the water pumped by the pump 150 proceeds to the outlet side 132 and enters the effluent tank 4. In some embodiments, the water is recirculated from the effluent tank 4 back to the pump 150. In some embodiments, an additional pump (not shown) handles this recirculation. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, a filtration system (not shown) filters the water pumped through the inlet pipes 2.

[0074] The depicted embodiment also includes an optional control mechanism 160 operable to differentially regulate flow from the pump 150 through each of the plurality of inlet tubes 2 and / or across the support surface 3 .

[0075] Some embodiments employing control mechanism 160 include a plurality of flow sensors (not shown). In some embodiments, each sensor is located in an inlet tube 2 of the plurality of inlet tubes and / or on support surface 3. According to these embodiments, each sensor provides an output signal indicative of flow rate to control mechanism 160.

[0076] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the system includes a pump operable to collect water emanating from the drain hole 5 and return it to the common reservoir 110. In the embodiment shown, this function is provided by a pump 150 having an inlet tube (not shown) communicating with the drain hole 5. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, a separate pump is used for the water discharged from the drain hole 5.

[0077] Other Exemplary Aquaculture Methods

[0078] Figure 3 is a simplified flow chart of an aquaculture method, generally indicated at 300, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0079] The depicted exemplary method 300 includes filling 310 a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces with water and placing a crustacean with the water. In some embodiments, each support surface is covered with water that contacts the bottom of the next support surface above it. In some embodiments, the uppermost support surface is equipped with a cover to control the water depth during filling 310.

[0080] The depicted exemplary method 300 also includes causing 320 water to flow from the common reservoir through a plurality of inlet tubes. Each inlet tube is in fluid communication with the common reservoir and with an inlet side of one of the support surfaces in the vertical array.

[0081] The depicted exemplary method 300 also includes collecting 330 water effluent from the vertical array of horizontal support surfaces in an effluent tank.

[0082] The depicted exemplary method 300 also includes discharging 340 water from the effluent tank via one or more discharge holes located above the level of the uppermost support surface in the array of support surfaces. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the discharge holes are configured as gaps. (See Figure 5a , 5b and the accompanying instructions below)

[0083] The depicted exemplary method 300 also optionally includes dividing 350 each support surface into two or more tubes. According to embodiments including this optional feature, each of the plurality of inlet tubes is in fluid communication with a common reservoir and with an inlet side of one of the tubes.

[0084] The depicted exemplary method 300 also optionally includes removing waste 360 ​​via a waste removal port near the bottom of the effluent tank.

[0085] The depicted exemplary method 300 also optionally includes pumping 370 water from the common reservoir through the plurality of inlet tubes and / or across the support surface 3. In some embodiments, pumping 370 assists in priming 310. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, pumping 370 includes differentially regulating 375 the flow rate from the pump through each of the plurality of inlet tubes. In some embodiments, method 300 includes monitoring 377 the flow rate in each of the plurality of inlet tubes. In some embodiments, monitoring 377 regulates pumping 370 in a feedback loop.

[0086] The depicted exemplary method 300 also optionally includes collecting 380 water discharged from the discharge holes and returning it to a common reservoir. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, collecting and / or returning involves the use of a pump (eg, gas lift).

[0087] Exemplary Flow Dynamics Methods

[0088] Figure 4a is a simplified flow chart of a flow dynamics method, generally designated 400, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 4b is with Figure 4a A schematic diagram of an exemplary system configuration consistent with the illustrated method is generally indicated at 402 .

[0090] Reference now Figure 4a and Figure 4b, depicted exemplary method 400 includes filling 410 an upper reservoir 412 at a height A with an aquaculture medium. Height A represents an upper surface of the liquid in reservoir 412.

[0091] The illustrated exemplary method 400 also includes causing 420 the culture medium to flow through a plurality of tubes 419, each tube being connected to a culture container in a plurality of stacked culture containers (421a; 421b and 421c). According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, causing 420 includes pumping and / or relying on gravity feeding. Although three tubes and three culture containers are depicted for clarity, a much greater number may be present in actual operation. Alternatively or additionally, in many embodiments, as Figure 1e As shown, the stacked culture containers include a plurality of containers at the same height.

[0092] The illustrated exemplary method 400 also includes collecting 430 the culture medium in a common effluent tank 431 having one or more drain holes 433 at a height a. As shown, height a is lower than height A. In some embodiments, the difference between height A and height a contributes to the flow rate of the culture medium throughout the system.

[0093] In various embodiments of method 400, culture vessels 421a, 421b, and 421c are horizontal (as shown) or inclined.

[0094] In the depicted embodiment, method 400 includes recirculating culture medium from drain port 433 to upper reservoir 412 .

[0095] Demonstration tandem aquaculture system

[0096] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system configuration, generally indicated at 500, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0097] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system configuration, generally indicated at 501, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0098] Some exemplary embodiments of the invention are directed to a series array of aquaculture systems as described above, wherein the effluent tank of one system serves as a common reservoir for the next system in the array.

[0099] Figure 5aAn embodiment is depicted in which a reservoir 510 is in communication with a culture stack 512 via a tube of zero length. The tube in the stack 512 is in fluid communication with an effluent tank 514. Retaining walls 515 create a discharge gap 516, and water flowing through the gap 516 is directed into an adjacent culture stack 520. The effluent tank 514 serves as a reservoir for the stack 520. Water flows through the stack 520 into the effluent tank 522, where retaining walls 525 direct the flow through the discharge gap 526 to the next culture stack (not shown).

[0100] Figure 5b Another embodiment is depicted in which each culture stack 532 is separated by an outflow region 530 , a retaining wall 535 , and a drain gap 536 .

[0101] According to these embodiments, the shrimp may move between stages and may simply be held in a layer / tube.

[0102] The depicted tandem configuration allows water to be utilized over more surface area prior to cleaning. Alternatively or additionally, the depicted configuration enables the use of a cleaning system with sequential stages. Although a tandem horizontal array is depicted, a tandem vertical array is also possible.

[0103] Alternatively or additionally, the depicted tandem configuration allows for more solid and molt separation areas and / or provides an intermediate area for dead shrimp separation and sheltering weaker pre- or post-molt shrimp. In some embodiments, the tandem configuration allows shrimp to move between culture stacks.

[0104] Demonstration of aquaculture harvesting methods

[0105] Figure 6 is a simplified flow chart of an aquaculture harvesting method, generally indicated at 600, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0106] The exemplary method 600 depicted includes tilting 610 or lifting a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces so that crustaceans residing thereon move to a common effluent tank, and collecting 620 the crustaceans from the effluent tank. In some embodiments, collecting 620 is performed through a discharge port (e.g., Figure 1b Port 6 in). According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the thickness of each component of the assembly and / or the height and / or width and / or length of the tube are adjusted according to the structural engineering requirements of each embodiment.

[0107] Example dimensions

[0108] For small shrimp, a tube height of 5 cm is sufficient. Adult shrimp may be more comfortable in a tube with a height of 15 cm. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, small shrimp fry are placed in a tube with a height of 15 cm. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, shrimp are transferred from a 5 cm tube to a tube with a higher height during the production cycle.

[0109] According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the tube length varies in the range of 0.5M to 500M. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the tube length is at least 0.5M, 5M, at least 10M, at least 20M, at least 50M, at least 100M, or intermediate or longer lengths. Alternatively or additionally, according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the length of the tube is less than 500m, less than 400M, less than 300M, less than 200M, or less than 100M, or intermediate or shorter lengths.

[0110] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the tube width varies in the range of 0.5M to 20M. In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the tube width is at least 0.5M, at least 1M, at least 2M, at least 5M, at least 10M or an intermediate or greater width. Alternatively or additionally, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the width of the tube is less than 20m, less than 15M, less than 10M, less than 5M or less than 1M or an intermediate or shorter width.

[0111] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the tube height varies in the range of 0.02M to 5M. In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the tube height is at least 0.05M, at least 0.1M, at least 0.2M, at least 0.5M, at least 1.0M, or a medium or higher height. Alternatively or additionally, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the tube height is less than 2m, less than 1.5M, less than 1.0M, less than 0.5M or less than 0.1M or a medium or shorter height.

[0112] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, an effluent tank (e.g., Figure 1c 4 has a height equal to the width of the support surface 3 in a single layer and / or equal to the combined height of all support surfaces 3 in the stack. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the length of the effluent tank 4 is 0.2M, 0.3M, 0.4M, 0.5M, 0.6M, 0.7M, 0.8M, 0.9M, 1M, 1.5M, 2M, 2.5M or 3M or a medium or longer length.

[0113] According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the reservoir 110 is in the range of 1% to 1000% of the total enclosure volume (defined by the support surface 3 and the wall / partition 120). In some embodiments, the reservoir 110 provides a buffer of water if there is a mechanical or electrical problem that prevents the supply of water from the clean water system. In an immersion system configuration, the reservoir 110 is not present. In some embodiments, the reservoir 110 is provided as part of the RAS water treatment system connected to the pipe 2.

[0114] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is configured to have 1-500 layers / levels of culture spaces on the vertical axis and 1-100 adjacent culture spaces on the horizontal axis.

[0115] Exemplary Production Parameters

[0116] Stocking 7.5 kg of shrimp in a tube 1 m long, 1 m wide and 60 cm high results in a standing biomass of at least 12.5 kg / m 3 Alternatively or additionally, stocking 10 kg of shrimp in a tube 1 m in length, 1 m in width and 10 cm in height results in a standing biomass of at least 100 kg / m 3 .

[0117] Provides sufficient growth surface area from 3.5kg biomass of shrimp / m 2 To 10kg biomass of prawns / m 2 The biomass obtained increased to 67 kg biomass / m in the fourth life stage. 3 paddock volume and increases to 38kg / m 3 Average value of paddock volume.

[0118] Example Installation Configuration

[0119] The system can be installed in an inclined structure, or the inclination can be adjusted from time to time to allow discharge and / or shrimping. According to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system is constructed with an inclined support surface 3. In some embodiments, the inclined support surface 3 facilitates solid separation and / or ease of harvesting. Alternatively or additionally, according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the support surface 3 has a permanent inclination angle or an adjustable inclination angle.

[0120] The above description refers to a land-based installation (e.g., skid-mounted). In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the aquaculture system is submerged in an open basin, such as in an ocean, pond, river, or estuary. Embodiments using submerged pipes facilitate the ability to use thinner materials for the support surface 3 and / or vertical wall 120. In some embodiments, the low pressure differential helps reduce the need for material thickness.

[0121] In an immersed system, vertical walls and horizontal support surfaces experience similar pressures from both sides due to ambient water pressure from outside the system. When a material feels similar (or nearly similar) pressures on both sides, it can withstand pressure even if it is thin.

[0122] In some embodiments, immersion installation enables the use of thin layers due to the lower pressure differential between the inner and outer surfaces.

[0123] Example Immersion System Configuration

[0124] Figure 7 is a schematic side view of a submerged aquaculture system, generally designated 700, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0125] In the depicted embodiment, system 700 includes a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces 703, each of which is connected to a solid side wall (not visible; similar to Figure 1c 120 in the support surface 703) and has an inlet side 730 and an outlet side 732. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the support surface 703 is solid. For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, the term "solid" does not include mesh or mesh. In the illustrated embodiment, the mesh 710 covers the inlet side 730 and the outlet side 732. In some embodiments, the mesh 710 has holes sized to hold the shrimp on the support surface 703 while allowing water to flow through the surface 703. In some embodiments, the flow is natural (e.g., a river or ocean waves). In some embodiments, the flow is provided by one or more pumps (not shown).

[0126] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, system 700 includes solid vertical dividers (not visible; similar to Figure 1e 120a and 120b), which divides each support surface into two or more tubes.

[0127] The depicted exemplary system 700 includes a float 720 having sufficient buoyancy to prevent the system from sinking beyond a desired level when deployed in a body of water. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the float is constructed of a low-density polymer. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the float is filled with air.

[0128] Alternatively or additionally, the depicted exemplary system 700 includes ballast 740 having a weight sufficient to prevent the system from floating beyond a desired degree when deployed in a body of water. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the ballast 740 is configured as a fillable ballast tank. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the ballast 740 is constructed of a high-density material such as concrete or metal.

[0129] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the functionality of ballast 740 and float 720 resides in a single tank with a pump that can alternately fill the tank with air or water.

[0130] Alternatively or additionally, the depicted exemplary system 700 includes an anchor attachment point 750. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the attachment point 750 is configured as a loop, hook, or chain. In some embodiments, several anchor attachments are provided in the system 700. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, attachment to an anchor limits lateral displacement of the system 700 relative to the "ground" of the body of water in which the system is deployed.

[0131] Various optional features

[0132] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the growth tube is equipped with lighting. Alternatively or additionally, the surface of the substrate 3 and / or wall 120 is coated with a high surface area material to promote the formation of biofilm or algae and / or provide shelter and / or improve survival. The biofilm and / or algae can be used as feed or feed supplement for the shrimp. Alternatively or additionally, the tube includes a shelter for sheltering weak or molting shrimp to prevent cannibalism.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, the surface of the substrate 3 and / or the wall 120 is coated with a textured substrate to absorb the physical impact caused by the carotenoid escape reaction to minimize subsequent damage and infection. In some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the roughening of the support surface 3 and / or the vertical wall 120 helps to reduce damage and / or infection and / or provide shelter for vulnerable shrimp. In some embodiments, 10 mm polypropylene fiber artificial grass is used as the substrate (e.g., GLLC-10 type; China Zhonglian). In other exemplary embodiments of the present invention, BIOMAT hatching substrate (Dynamic Aqua Supply LTD; Surrey BC; Canada) is used as the substrate.

[0134] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the tube includes process and / or analysis sensors and / or cameras and / or audio sensors to record feeding activity, biomass measurements, and overall behavior of the shrimp.

[0135] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, tube 2 provides an adjustable flow rate. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, flow rate regulation is manual or automatic. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, flow rate regulation is used to adjust the replenishment rate of the culture space and / or regulate oxygen and / or nitrogen and / or CO2 and / or other metabolic byproducts and / or maintain the desired feed quality.

[0136] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the aquaculture system includes water treatment by circulating the water in a closed loop via a RAS (recirculating aquaculture system) and / or via an external water purification system and / or via a flow-through method and / or via a bioflocculation method and / or a combination thereof.

[0137] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the aquaculture system allows for individual monitoring and control of each tube or conduit for one or more parameters including, but not limited to, oxygen, turbidity, feed amount, pH, and ammonia.

[0138] Example Aspect Ratios

[0139] Many embodiments of the present invention have a substantially rectangular growth surface layout when viewed from above.

[0140] In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the side walls 120 and / or vertical dividers 120 contribute to the structural integrity of the system in the face of the combined weight of the water and the shrimp. Alternatively or additionally, in some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the support surface 3 contributes to the structural integrity of the system in the face of the combined weight of the water and the shrimp.

[0141] For example, as the length of the growth tube increases, reducing its width can increase structural strength. According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an aspect ratio (length to width) of 100:1; 500:1; 250:1; 100:1 or 50:1 is sufficient to improve structural strength.

[0142] Alternatively or additionally, as the length of the growth tubes increases, reducing their height may increase structural strength. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, an aspect ratio (length to height) of 20,000:1; 10,000:1; 5000:1; 2500:1; 1000:1 or 500:1 is sufficient to improve structural strength.

[0143] Alternatively or additionally, as the width of the growth tube increases, reducing its height may increase structural strength. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, an aspect ratio (width to height) of 1,000:1; 500:1; 250:1; 100:1; 50:1 or 25:1 is sufficient to improve structural strength.

[0144] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the selection of a particular material for construction and its thickness will aid in the selection of various aspect ratios.

[0145] Exemplary Advantages

[0146] In some embodiments, implementation of the systems and / or methods described above helps increase production per unit area of ​​farm space. Much of this increase comes from more efficient use of the vertical dimension. Multiple layers of growth substrate (e.g., support surface 3) help to more efficiently use the vertical dimension. The reduction in intervening space between multiple layers of growth substrate (relative to previously described stacked aquaculture systems, e.g., US 8,336,498 to Lawrence; which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) also helps to more efficiently use the vertical dimension.

[0147] The increase in yield per unit area of ​​farm space helps to reduce the real estate requirements for commercial production facilities. Since real estate prices are generally higher near cities, the practice of the described systems and methods makes it possible to install aquaculture facilities near large cities without excessive expenditure. Cities will have a large supply of fresh shrimp for sale in the form of restaurants, markets and stores.

[0148] Alternatively or additionally, implementation of the systems and / or methods described above eliminates bycatch associated with traditional wild-caught commercial shrimping methods.

[0149] It is expected that during the life of this patent many new materials of construction and / or pump mechanisms will be developed, and the scope of the present invention is intended to anticipate all such new technologies.

[0150] As used herein, the term "about" refers to ± 10%.

[0151] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments of the present invention, it is apparent that many substitutions, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended to cover all such substitutions, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0152] Specifically, various digital indications have been utilized.It should be appreciated that these digital indications can further change based on the multiple engineering principles, materials, intended use and designs incorporated in each embodiment of the present invention.In addition, the components and / or actions that are attributed to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention and are depicted as a single unit can be divided into subunits.On the contrary, the components and / or actions that are attributed to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention and are depicted as subunits / single actions can be combined into a single unit / action with described / described function.

[0153] Alternatively or additionally, features used to describe the method may be used to characterize the apparatus, and features used to describe the apparatus may be used to characterize the method.

[0154] It should also be understood that the various features described above may be combined in all possible combinations and sub-combinations to create further embodiments of the present invention.The examples given above are exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined only by the appended claims.

[0155] Each recitation of an embodiment of the invention that includes a particular feature, part, component, module, or process is an explicit statement that there are other embodiments of the invention that do not include the described feature, part, component, module, or process.

[0156] Alternatively or additionally, various exemplary embodiments of the invention exclude any particular feature, component, assembly, module, process, or element not specifically disclosed herein.

[0157] In particular, the invention has been described in the context of shrimp, but the invention may also be used in the context of other crustaceans (such as crabs or lobsters) and / or molluscs.

[0158] All publications, references, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated by reference in their entirety into this specification, to the same extent as each publication, patent or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein. In addition, the citation or identification of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that the reference can be used as prior art for the present invention.

[0159] As used herein, the terms "including" and "having" and variations thereof mean "including but not necessarily limited to."

[0160] By studying the following examples, additional objects, advantages and novel features of various embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, which examples are not intended to be limiting. In addition, as described above and as described in the claims section below, each of the various embodiments and aspects of the present invention is experimentally supported in the following examples.

[0161] Example

[0162] Reference is now made to the following examples, which together with the above description and / or accompanying drawings illustrate the invention in a non-limiting fashion.

[0163] Embodiment 1:

[0164] Theoretical yield

[0165] Table 1 shows the use of Figures 1a to 1eTheoretical yields for small-scale aquaculture systems of the general configuration shown.

[0166] Table 1: Summary of theoretical production parameters

[0167]

[0168] This example illustrates that the expected annual shrimp production of a small system with a total layer height of 0.6 m (12 layers in the 1st and 2nd levels, 6 and 4 layers in the 3rd and 4th levels respectively) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention reaches 271 kg / m 2 452kg / m of floor surface (top view) and / or system volume 3 This exemplary embodiment shows 37.7 kg / m per growth cycle. 3 .

[0169] This example illustrates the expected annual shrimp production for a system with monthly growth stages, and at the end of each stage the shrimp are moved to the next stage and a new batch of shrimp is stocked in the first stage. Thus, 12 harvests are possible each year. This exemplary embodiment maintains the same 0.6 meter total height of the tube unit combination for each stage, and the number of tubes stacked according to the unit height. This exemplary embodiment of the invention adjusts the total area for shrimp growth by adjusting the unit length and / or width to maintain the planned maximum biomass density of kg / m 2 The tube bottom surface is as listed. Since the space between the layers is the thickness of the unit floor, this embodiment achieves 271 kg / m 2 Production area (e.g. building size) and 452kg / m 3 System water volume or approximate building volume.

[0170] Alternatively or additionally, the same annual production kg / m2 of production area (e.g. building size) can be maintained at 271 kg / m by proportionally increasing the number of unit layers. 2 , while reducing the shrimp density on the bottom surface of the tube kg / m 2 By increasing the number of unit layers from 4 to 8, the density at the end of each month can be reduced to 50% of the listed value.

[0171] In this example, the required area (total surface) is calculated by dividing the total standing biomass (kg) by the growth density (e.g., 3.5 kg / m 2 ) - Because the standing biomass is different in each step, and the required growth area per kg is different, the total area required for each stage is also different. Coincidentally (standing biomass and growth density) in stages 3 and 4, the required area results are the same.

[0172] According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the length of the tubes can be equal or vary between growth stages. In this embodiment, the total height of each stage remains constant, so different lengths are used in each stage. According to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the growth stages are connected or not connected. In this embodiment, each stage has its own stack. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the stages are connected in series.

[0173] Table 1 shows the standing biomass per unit area and per unit volume for stages 1 to 4. This is an artifact caused by the small tube height in stages 1 and 2.

[0174] Embodiment 2:

[0175] Alternative theoretical yield

[0176] Table 2 shows the use of Figures 1a to 1e Theoretical yields for a medium-scale aquaculture system of the general configuration shown.

[0177] Table 2: Summary of theoretical production parameters

[0178]

[0179] This example illustrates that the estimated annual shrimp production of a medium-sized system with a total layer height of 6 m (120 layers in the 1st and 2nd levels, 60 and 40 layers in the 3rd and 4th levels respectively) according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention reaches 2,713 kg / m 2 452kg / m of floor surface (top view) and / or system volume 3 This exemplary embodiment shows 37.7 kg / m per growth cycle. 3 .

[0180] per m 2 The increased production of floor surfaces suggests that production per unit area can be expanded by increasing the amount of horizontal support surface on which shrimp growth occurs.

[0181] The comments regarding production parameters in the previous embodiment also apply here.

Claims

1. A method comprising: (a) providing a multi-layer closed conduit aquaculture enclosure comprising a vertical array of horizontal support surfaces, each surface connected to a side wall and having an inlet side and an outlet side; a plurality of inlet tubes, each inlet tube being in fluid communication with a common reservoir and with an inlet side of one of said support surfaces in said vertical array; and an effluent tank being in fluid communication with all of said outlet sides in said vertical array of support surfaces and having one or more drain holes located above the level of an uppermost support surface in said array of support surfaces; (b) stocking the enclosure with prawns; and (c) At least 12.5 kg / m 3 Growth of standing biomass in paddock volume.

2. The method of claim 1, comprising harvesting at least 450 kg / M 3 Paddock volume / year.

3. The method of claim 1, comprising harvesting at least 18.8 kg / M at the end of each growing period. 3 Paddock volume.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising harvesting at a frequency of every 120 days or less.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The multi-layered closed conduit aquaculture enclosure includes: one or more vertical dividers parallel to the side walls of each of the horizontal support surfaces that divide each support surface into two or more tubes; Wherein each inlet tube of the plurality of inlet tubes is in fluid communication with the common reservoir and with an inlet side of one of the tubes.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Step (a) comprises providing: A waste removal port is located near the bottom of the effluent tank.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein: Step (a) comprises providing: A valve operable to open and close the waste removal port.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Step (a) comprises providing: A pump is operable to circulate water from the common reservoir through the plurality of inlet tubes to the support surface.

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