Abalone farming equipment and methods

Abstract

The present invention relates to abalone farming equipment and methods, in particular to a submersible container for holding abalone, the container comprising: a container wall defining a fence for abalone, the fence comprising an inner surface for receiving abalone thereon; one or more apertures configured to allow water to flow through the fence when the container is immersed in water, but not to allow abalone to pass therethrough; one or more feeding ports in the container wall; and one or more feed dispensers, each dispenser comprising a reservoir for abalone feed and a mouth portion configured to be received at a corresponding feeding port, wherein the one or more dispensers are independently operable to dispense the feed contained therein into the fence.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 201780023197.2. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to equipment and methods for abalone farming. In particular, the present invention relates to improvements in equipment and methods for farming abalone in onshore and offshore environments. Background Art

[0003] Abalone is a highly valued food product and demand for it is growing worldwide. To meet this ongoing demand, abalone farms have been established to supplement the dwindling wild abalone supply. While some final grow-out offshore farms exist, the vast majority of abalone farms are solely land-based.

[0004] In existing abalone farms, after spawning, abalone larvae are usually allowed to rest on the surface of plastic sheets with algae growing on them. These sheets are then separated in racks and placed in water tanks for about 5-6 months, or until they grow to a size of about 10 mm. Factors such as sun exposure are carefully controlled during this "sheet rearing" stage to balance the growth of algae on the sheets with the growth of abalone. The young abalone are then moved to so-called "sheet tanks" where they grow in shallow tanks with high-quality seawater flowing through them continuously. The abalone are fed with prepared food that is specifically formulated for different production stages, and during the first 5-7 months in the sheet tanks, the size of the abalone grows from about 10 mm to about 25 mm. Finally, about three years after spawning, abalone with a diameter of about 90 mm can be put on the market and removed from the sheet tanks for processing.

[0005] Existing abalone farms require a lot of infrastructure, such as buildings, water tanks, pumping systems, etc., and therefore the operating costs are very high. In fact, it is estimated that the cost of producing about 200 tons of cultured abalone under current electricity prices is around one million Australian dollars. In addition, it takes about 3 years to grow abalone to a marketable size, and currently a lot of water tank infrastructure is needed almost throughout this period of time. Thus, existing abalone farms are usually faced with a production limit of about 200 tons per year, and therefore it is unlikely to be able to meet the growing demand for abalone all over the world.

[0006] Expanding conventional abalone farms to meet this demand is not without its problems. For example, building the large concrete tanks required and their associated water and drainage systems is costly and time-consuming, and can often be complicated by factors such as uneven or unstable ground, existing buildings or infrastructure that may impede concrete pouring, etc. In addition, water and drainage systems can be complex to operate and prone to malfunction.

[0007] Offshore farms where abalone are grown are known. In such farms, once the abalone have grown onshore to a size that exceeds a certain size (usually about 50 mm), they are transferred to an offshore growing facility where they are contained, for example, in a net suspended from a buoy (usually, the net is suspended from a circular buoy). A number of structures are located in the net that provide hiding places for the abalone and a surface on which they can rest (the abalone will not rest on the net).

[0008] Although this type of offshore farm may be less dependent on infrastructure than the above-mentioned onshore farm, they still have many problems.For example, the food of abalone is spread in the fence, and then it falls through the water column and stays on the surface of the hiding place for the abalone to eat.But, as will be understood, a large part of food may directly fall through the net and therefore cannot be obtained by the abalone, thereby increasing production costs or reducing the growth rate of the abalone.The movement in the water column may also cause the food that stays on the hiding place to be swept away before being eaten by the abalone.Finally, the risk that predators can pass through the net and eat the growing abalone always exists.

[0009] Offshore abalone farms also generally have to be reasonably firmly anchored to the seafloor in order to minimize the risk of damage during storms or in high waves. The location of the farm in the water is therefore fixed, which can lead to environmental problems associated with reducing the amount of sunlight received by the seabed below the farm, or by contaminating the area around the farm with food that cannot be eaten by the abalone.

[0010] Offshore farms using specially designed submersible abalone storage containers are known. However, supplying feed to abalone in such containers and performing periodic inspections thereof are difficult and will generally require divers and / or other specialized equipment.

[0011] It would be advantageous to improve abalone farming equipment and methods so that the productivity of abalone farms can be increased to meet the growing demand for abalone worldwide. Summary of the invention

[0012] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a water tank for growing abalone. The water tank comprises an elongated base, the base comprising upright walls arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongated base and defining a channel therebetween for receiving a flow of water. The elongated base comprises a plurality of prefabricated base portions adapted to be sealingly connected together.

[0013] As will be appreciated, the construction of abalone rearing tanks (e.g., slab tanks) from prefabricated base sections can significantly simplify the construction process compared to the prior art process. Such modular tanks will not require much of the preparatory work traditionally associated with large concrete pours (e.g.), and the prefabricated base sections can be delivered to the site using a crane or the like, even near existing infrastructure (e.g., a shed or other slab tank). In addition, the precast sections can be manufactured off-site and in a more controlled environment than can be achieved on site, and the precast sections should therefore have significantly higher and more stable quality.

[0014] In some embodiments, the plurality of prefabricated base sections may be substantially identical to one another in order to further simplify the assembly process and reduce the number of different parts required to construct the water tank.

[0015] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a prefabricated base section suitable for use in a water tank according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0016] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a water tank system comprising a plurality of water tanks according to the first aspect of the present invention, the plurality of water tanks being arranged in an array.

[0017] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the water tank system may include two water tanks arranged in series along the longitudinal axis of their elongated bases and the end of one water tank is positioned adjacent to the end of the other water tank (i.e., in a "head-to-head" arrangement). The water tank system may also include a central trough, which may be located between the elongated bases of adjacent ends of the water tanks and sealingly connected to the elongated bases, and selectively operable to deliver water flow into the channel of the water tank or to discharge water delivered to the far end of the channel of the water tank. In such embodiments, the amount of infrastructure (e.g., water pipes and pumping equipment) required to operate the water tank system can be minimized, thereby reducing the complexity and cost (both in terms of operation and construction) of the water tank system.

[0018] The tank system may also include, in some embodiments, an elevated platform above the central tank, which may be adapted to receive a water reservoir thereon in some embodiments. The water reservoir may be operable to deliver waves of water into one or more of the channels to flush the channels clean, similar to how waves do in the abalone's natural environment.

[0019] In some embodiments, the water reservoir can slide along a track disposed on an elevated platform so that it is aligned with a selected one or more of the channels in the water tank system. In some embodiments, the water reservoir can be pivoted toward any of the water tanks so that the water wave can be delivered to the selected channel. In this way, the water reservoir can be easily repositioned and pivoted (manually or automatically) so that it gradually flushes all channels in the water tank system.

[0020] In some embodiments, the tank may further include an abalone feeding device adapted to move along the length of each channel and to spread food into the channel. The feeding device may slide, for example, along a track provided on the upright wall.

[0021] In some embodiments, the tank may also include a dual water supply. As will be appreciated, a water supply failure (even for a short period of time) may result in the death of a large number of abalone.

[0022] In some aspects of the present invention, a water tank or water tank system for growing abalone is provided, comprising an elongated base, the base comprising upright walls, the upright walls defining a channel therebetween for receiving a flow of water, wherein the water tank or water tank system further comprises any one or more of the following:

[0023] a plurality of prefabricated base sections adapted to be sealingly connected together;

[0024] a central trough located between and sealingly connected to the ends of adjacent elongated bases and selectively operable to deliver water flow into each channel or to discharge water already discharged into each channel at the distal ends of the adjacent elongated bases;

[0025] an elevated platform adapted to receive thereon a water reservoir operable to deliver water waves into one or more of the channels; and

[0026] An abalone feeding device is adapted to move along the length of each channel and spread food into the channel.

[0027] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a submersible container for storing abalone. The container includes a container wall defining an enclosure for abalone, wherein the enclosure includes an inner surface for receiving abalone thereon. The container also includes one or more apertures configured to allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is immersed in water, but not to allow abalone to pass therethrough. The container also includes one or more feeding ports in the container wall and one or more feed dispensers. Each dispenser includes a reservoir for abalone feed and a mouth portion configured to receive at a corresponding feeding port, wherein the one or more dispensers are independently operable to dispense feed contained therein into the enclosure.

[0028] Such containers are well suited for use in offshore environments (e.g., those where the container is suspended from a float or long line.) The natural movement of water causes water to flow through the container, which provides a continuous source of oxygenated water to the abalone resting on the inner surface without all the requirements of onshore growing facilities, such as plate tanks and continuous water pumping.

[0029] In addition, providing a submersible container with a feed dispenser can advantageously extend the time between inspections of abalone in the container. Although growing abalone should always be inspected regularly, in such embodiments, the time between inspections can be extended (e.g., by up to a month). This is a significant improvement over some existing submersible containers, which need to be retrieved from the water about once a week to be refilled with abalone feed, or require a diver to connect a hose through which abalone feed can be pumped from a boat into the container.

[0030] In some embodiments, one or more dispensers may be independently operable to dispense feed contained therein into pens at predetermined times. In some embodiments, for example, a container may include two or more feed dispensers adapted to dispense feed contained therein into pens at different times (e.g., at different predetermined times). Such embodiments may advantageously ensure a more consistent delivery of food, which may help prevent food from being wasted.

[0031] In some embodiments, the enclosure may be configured to receive therein a member that provides additional interior surface for receiving abalone thereon. Because the number of abalone that can be stored within an enclosure depends on various factors, including the amount of available surface area, increasing the interior surface area means that more abalone can be grown in the container.

[0032] In some embodiments, the member may be generally planar, which will help when removing abalone because there are no narrow corners where they may hide. However, as will be appreciated, it is desirable to maximize the internal abalone receiving surface area as much as possible. Thus, when the member is foldable to fit within the enclosure, a member larger than the enclosure may be used. In some embodiments, the member may be foldable multiple times to define a plurality of additional internal surfaces for receiving abalone thereon. Thus, the number of abalone may be maximized for a given volume, thereby helping to further improve the efficiency of the breeding process.

[0033] In some embodiments, the container wall may include an inner wall and an outer wall with a cavity therebetween. The cavity may, for example, be adapted to receive air, water or sand (or a combination thereof) in order to adjust the buoyancy of the container.

[0034] In some embodiments, the container may be openable to provide access to the abalone in the enclosure. Removing abalone from the surface can be difficult, and even more difficult if the abalone can hide in a recessed portion that is difficult to reach. Therefore, anything that can be done to improve access to the abalone in the container will help improve the efficiency of the farming process.

[0035] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a feed dispenser for use with the submersible container of the fourth aspect of the present invention. The feed dispenser includes: a reservoir configured to hold feed for abalone; a mouth portion configured to be received in one of the feeding ports of the container; and a gate movable from a closed position to an open position upon receiving a signal (e.g., a signal generated at the end of a predetermined time or a signal generated by an external source). When the gate moves from its closed position to its open position, the feed contained in the reservoir is dispensed into the enclosure.

[0036] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a method for growing abalone in an offshore location. The method comprises deploying one or more of the submersible containers of the fourth aspect of the invention on a longline anchored to the seafloor, and periodically retrieving each of the one or more submersible containers and inspecting the abalone contained therein (e.g., for predators, expected growth, any mortality, etc.).

[0037] Using the offshore position to raise young abalone will free up the shore water tank infrastructure for the next round of abalone breeding, thereby reducing the cost associated with the long-term use (up to 3 years) large water tank infrastructure and enabling the growth of more generations of abalone. In addition, due to the natural movement of water around the container, it is not necessary to actively pump seawater through the submersible container (that is, as required in the planar water tank on the shore), which significantly reduces the cost associated with operating the pumping system (according to the abalone grown). In addition, the container of the present invention, especially when remaining in a hanging environment, can significantly reduce predation by keeping abalone from being touched by bottom-feeding animals (such as starfish, etc.).

[0038] In embodiments where the submersible container includes feed dispensers, the method of the present invention may further include replacing any empty feed dispensers with full feed dispensers.

[0039] In some embodiments, one or more submersible containers may be retrieved using a retrieval device suspended from the side of a boat. The retrieval device may, for example, be operable to lift the container from the water, position the container on the deck of the boat for inspection of the abalone contained therein, and then return the container to the water. In such embodiments, the abalone can be accessed by people on the boat, and divers are not required. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 A partially exploded perspective view showing a water tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2A cross-sectional side view showing a channel for delivering water to a water tank or a trough for draining water from the channel according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 A partially exploded perspective view of the tank and water tank;

[0044] Figure 4 A partially exploded perspective view showing a center tank of a water tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 5 A cross-sectional side view showing a central tank of a water tank system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 6 An exploded perspective view showing a water tank system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 7 An embodiment of a water supply system for use with a water tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 8 An array of water tanks showing an embodiment of a water tank system according to the present invention;

[0049] Fig. 9 A perspective view showing a submersible container for storing abalone according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Fig.10 showing a perspective view of a plurality of submersible containers for storing abalone in a stacked arrangement according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Fig.11 Show Fig.10 a cross-sectional side view of a submersible container of the type shown in FIG. 1 wherein a member for receiving abalone thereon is mounted within a fence;

[0052] Fig.12 Show Fig.11 a perspective view of a container and components of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container is in an open configuration;

[0053] Fig.13 showing a member for receiving an abalone thereon according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Fig.14 showing a perspective view of a feed dispenser for use with a submersible container according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the lid in a closed configuration;

[0055] Fig.15 Show Fig.14 the feed dispenser, but with the lid in its open configuration;

[0056] Fig.16 Show Fig.14 A perspective view of the feed dispenser as seen from its other end;

[0057] Fig.17 Show Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of a feed distributor;

[0058] Fig.18 Show Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of a feed dispenser after being inserted into a submersible container for storing abalone according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of a plurality of submersible containers for storing abalone deployed offshore on a longline in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] FIG. 20 shows a close-up view of a portion of the long rope of FIG. 19 ;

[0061] Fig.21 showing a perspective view of a boat used to retrieve the submersible container of Figure 19 for inspection; and

[0062] Fig. 22 Show Fig.21 A rear view of the lifting device of the small boat is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The present invention relates to equipment and methods that can be used to improve the efficiency of onshore and offshore abalone farms. The present invention will be described in more detail below.

[0064] Water tanks and water tank systems

[0065] In one aspect, the present invention provides a water tank for growing abalone. The water tank comprises an elongated base, the base comprises upright walls, the upright walls are arranged to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base, and the upright walls define a channel between them for receiving a continuous (in use) water flow therethrough. The elongated base comprises a plurality of prefabricated base portions (and in some embodiments defined by the plurality of prefabricated base portions) adapted to be sealed together. In another aspect, the present invention provides a water tank system, the water tank system comprising a plurality of these water tanks, the plurality of water tanks being arranged in an array. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a prefabricated base portion for use in these water tanks or water tank systems.

[0066] As discussed above, abalone farms traditionally include a plate tank rearing stage, where abalone grow from larvae to a marketable size. Such plate tanks are typically long, shallow concrete tanks, about 18 meters long, 2.5 meters wide, and 20 cm deep. In order to create a suitable growing environment, about 3 liters of fresh seawater are pumped through the tanks per second, with the depth of the water maintained at about 75 mm (enough to cover the abalone in the tank).

[0067] The water tank of the present invention comprises an elongated base having upright walls defining therebetween a channel for receiving a flow of water. The elongated base may be of a suitable length (e.g., between about 10 and 30 meters or between about 15 and 25 meters), but, similar to conventional plank-shaped water tanks, is preferably about 18 meters long. Trials and experiments have shown that the oxygen concentration in water flowing through a plank-shaped water tank containing abalone tends to drop below a desired level after about 18 meters. Thus, a water tank having a length of about 18 meters substantially prevents anoxic water from flowing past the abalone at the far end of the water tank.

[0068] The elongated base can include any number of passages. Typically, the elongated base includes a plurality of passages to maximize the quantity of abalone that can grow in the water tank. Each of the passages can have any suitable width (e.g., between about 1 meter and 5 meters or between about 2 meters and 4 meters), and the water tank has a corresponding width. However, similar to the passages arranged in traditional plate-shaped water tanks, the passage width is preferably about 2.5m. When the elongated base has a plurality of passages, the passage can have the same or different widths. In a particular embodiment, the passage or each passage is about 18m long and about 2.5m wide.

[0069] The upright walls are arranged to be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base and may have any suitable height. For example, in some embodiments, the upright walls may be approximately 20 cm high, as in the case of conventional plate-shaped water tanks. Typically, the upright walls extend generally over the entire length of the elongated base, but a certain indentation or extension may provide advantages, such as those discussed below. The upright walls may have any suitable thickness (i.e., width), as long as they are suitable for the purposes described herein. Too narrow, their structural integrity may be compromised during construction of the water tank or during subsequent operations. Too thick, they require excessive amounts of material to form and also reduce the width of the passageway in which the abalone is housed, and unnecessarily increase the gross weight of the elongated base. Upright walls having a width of approximately 150 mm have been found to be effective.

[0070] Any number of prefabricated base sections may be used to form the elongated base (and thus the water tank) of the present invention. An elongated base may, for example, comprise two or more prefabricated base sections sealingly connected together in an edge-to-edge manner to provide a wider water tank with an additional passage. An elongated base may, for example, comprise two or more prefabricated base sections sealingly connected together in an end-to-end manner to provide a longer passage or to enable the use of shorter prefabricated base sections.

[0071] In a particular embodiment, the width of the elongated base is one or two prefabricated base sections. In a particular embodiment, the length of the elongated base is two prefabricated base sections. This configuration has been found to provide a good balance between tank size and relative ease of construction, as the prefabricated base sections are of a size that is easily transported and maneuvered into position using conventional vehicles and machinery.

[0072] Considering the traditional length and width of the plate-shaped water tank, it may be convenient to use a prefabricated base section of about 9m in length in this type of embodiment. Two of this type of base section can be combined to provide a passage of about 18m long. The length that this type of prefabricated base section has is easy to use conventional transport tools to be transported to abalone farms from its manufacturing site. This type of embodiment provides balance between various factors, such as the water tank ideally has a minimum number of base sections but still has a useful size, while the prefabricated base section can still be relatively easy to transport and subsequently locate on site.

[0073] When the channels in a conventional plate-shaped water tank are about 2.5 m wide, the prefabricated base section may include up to four channels and still be transported using conventional vehicles and machinery. However, two channel wide prefabricated base sections may be preferred in some cases because they may be easier to handle. A prefabricated base section with two channels will have a width of about 6 m, which, as discussed above, is of a size that can be transported using conventional transport vehicles. A prefabricated base section with four channels will have a width of about 11 m, which is of a size that can be transported using conventional transport vehicles (just), but will be heavier and more difficult to handle, and is therefore less suitable for some applications.

[0074] The bottom of the passage may be generally smooth or may include raised members on which abalone tend to prefer to position themselves. Such raised members provide shelter for the abalone and simulate a more natural living environment. Although the raised members may have any form and orientation, when it comes time to harvest abalone in the tank, a generally linear shaped raised member extending generally parallel to the length of the passage (i.e., generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated base) may make it easier to remove the abalone from it.

[0075] The prefabricated base portion may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the prefabricated base portion is made of concrete. As will be appreciated, concrete is a material particularly suitable for applications such as this due to its strength, durability, resistance to UV light, and relatively low cost. Other suitable materials include plastics (e.g., molded plastics) having suitable strength and durability.

[0076] In embodiments where the prefabricated base portion is made of concrete, the concrete must be of a thickness that imparts sufficient strength so that the base portion can withstand lifting during construction and assembly of the tank or tank system, and subsequently withstand the weight of the abalone and water flowing through the passage. The floor of the base portion may, for example, be at least 100 mm thick, at least 130 mm thick, or at least 150 mm thick, depending on various factors such as the relative sizes of the base portion and the resulting tank, the amount of abalone to be grown in the tank, etc. Similarly, the upright wall (and other prefabricated components described herein) must have a thickness commensurate with its final use.

[0077] To simplify the construction of the water tank or water tank system, the plurality of prefabricated base sections may be substantially identical to one another. The reduced number of components is another factor that may contribute to lower manufacturing costs. However, in alternative embodiments, each of the prefabricated base sections may be identical to or different from one another, as long as they can be sealingly connected together to form an elongated base.

[0078] The preformed base sections are adapted to sealingly connect together. Any method of forming a substantially watertight seal between the connected base sections may be used. For example, in some embodiments, the end of one of the preformed base sections may include a protrusion configured to sealingly receive in a corresponding recessed portion at the end of another of the preformed base sections. Such an arrangement may be provided in the form of an extended protrusion configured to rest on a corresponding indented protrusion of an adjacent section. Alternatively, a tongue and groove type arrangement may be used.

[0079] If the surfaces of the base parts forming the seal are sufficiently smooth (due to the relatively heavy weight of one base part supported on the other), a sealant may not be needed. However, in some embodiments, a sealant may be used to improve the water tightness of the seal between the base parts. Any waterproof sealing material can be used as a sealant, especially a material with a certain degree of compressibility. Suitable sealants include, for example, silicone-based sealants.

[0080] In some embodiments, the prefabricated base portion may be constructed in situ with the plumbing and other components (e.g., cast into a concrete base portion). Providing the plumbing (etc.) for the tank and tank system inside the base portion has the potential to significantly simplify construction of the tank and significantly reduce the likelihood of leaks (e.g., because exposed plumbing becomes damaged or misaligned during installation).

[0081] The water tank and water tank system of the present invention may also include additional components that allow water to flow through its channels. Examples of such components will be described below.

[0082] In some embodiments, one end of the elongated base may be adapted to be sealingly connected to a drain for delivering a flow of water to the or each channel. In some embodiments, the other end of the elongated base (i.e., its distal end) may be adapted to be sealingly connected to the drain. In this way, a tank capable of providing a flow of water over abalone in its channels may be relatively easy to build using additional modular components. In some embodiments, the prefabricated base portion may include the necessary features (e.g., protrusions and complementary recesses) for connecting the elongated base to the drain and drain. Alternatively, these features may be provided separately from the prefabricated base portion.

[0083] The drain may for example comprise a slot extending across the width of the elongated base, and wherein water delivered into the slot subsequently flows into the or each channel. The drain may for example comprise a slot extending across the width of the elongated base, and wherein water that has flowed through the or each channel drains into the slot. The slot extending across the width of the elongated base may deliver a relatively uniform flow of water through each channel in the cistern.

[0084] The elongated base can be sealingly connected to the drain and the spout using any suitable mechanism (e.g., as discussed above in the context of sealingly connecting the base portions.) Typically, the drain and the spout will be substantially the same width as the elongated base, but in some embodiments they can be longer or shorter than the width of the elongated base, as long as water cannot leak from the tank.

[0085] The drains and traps may be constructed of any suitable material, such as concrete or plastic. Although the drains and traps will typically be provided in prefabricated form (i.e., with prefabricated base sections) to be consistent with the modularity of the water tank, it is noted that they may be constructed separately on site in some embodiments (e.g., after the prefabricated base sections are delivered and the elongated base of the water tank is constructed).

[0086] The troughs of the drain and the drain may have the same structure or different structures. In some embodiments, one or both of the troughs have a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge is adapted to be sealingly connected to the end of the elongated base. The first edge is lower than the second edge, and water introduced into the drain trough therefore overflows on that side of the trough and thus enters the channel, rather than overflowing over the second edge. Similarly, water discharged from the channel into the drain trough (i.e., over its first edge) cannot overflow over its (higher) second edge, but instead makes it flow into the drain (described below).

[0087] In some embodiments, the drain and the water discharger may be provided in a form in which their functions can be switched. That is, the drain (e.g., the slot at one end of the elongated base) can be switched so that it becomes a drain, while at the same time, the drain (e.g., the slot at the far end of the elongated base) can be switched so that it becomes a drain. This switching enables the direction of the water flow in the channel to alternate, thereby mimicking tidal flow and assisting in feeding and oxygenating the abalone regardless of their position in the channel (abalone at one end of the channel will go from receiving the least oxygenated water to receiving the most oxygenated water).

[0088] The water tank may be installed on the ground (or any other surface) in any suitable manner. For example, existing plate-shaped water tanks are usually in the form of concrete slabs, which are formed by pouring concrete into a formwork appropriately positioned on the ground. However, such water tanks may eventually be uneven (which will cause problems with water flow, etc.), or may break due to subsequent earth movement. Therefore, although the water tanks of the present invention can be located on the ground, they may also be suitable for installation on one or more pillars (for example, the water tank may include a recessed portion, etc., in which the pillars can be received). The pillars can be arranged before the prefabricated base portion is transported so that the pillars support the base portion at a planned height, while the base portion is joined to form an elongated base and thus form a water tank. The prefabricated base portion can be directly hoisted onto such pillars by a crane, for example, after transportation. As will be appreciated, this construction method does not require the laying of a foundation, and therefore may even reduce the cost of building a water tank or a water tank system.

[0089] Also advantageously, the use of the support column will enable the narrow base (etc.) of the water tank / water tank system to be in a position elevated from the ground. Such an elevated position may be more ergonomic for workers, as workers will not need to bend or squat to ground level in order to manually handle materials in the channel, etc. In effect, the water tank is at a convenient working height for the workers. In addition, the pipes associated with delivering water to and draining water from the channel can be located above the ground (usually above the ground), rather than having to be buried below the ground in order to have a sufficient drop (as is the case with a water tank located on the ground). As will be appreciated, this will not only reduce the amount of work required to install the water tank of the present invention (e.g., there will be no need to dig trenches for the pipes below the ground), but any leaks in the pipes will be easier to detect and repair. If the pipes are not buried, general maintenance of the pipes will also be greatly simplified.

[0090] In some embodiments, the pillars can be adapted so that the distance they extend from the ground is adjustable. Screw pillars, for example, are screwed into the ground and once firmly screwed into the ground can be screwed up or down to adjust their relative height. Such screw pillars can help to significantly reduce the construction time of the water tank system and result in less material being required.

[0091] The support pillars on which the base portion is mounted may also be used to support the drain and drain mentioned above.

[0092] In an embodiment of the water tank system of the present invention, the water tank system includes a central trough and two water tanks, the two water tanks are arranged in series along the longitudinal axis of their elongated bases, and the end of one water tank is positioned adjacent to the end of the other water tank. The central trough is located between the ends of adjacent elongated bases and is sealingly connected to the ends (e.g., in the manner discussed above), and is selectively operable to deliver water flow into the channel (one or more) or to discharge water delivered to the channel (one or more) at the distal end of the adjacent water tank (i.e., so that the water flow through the channel can be reversed, as described above). As will be appreciated, this embodiment of the water tank system is applicable to any even number of water tanks (e.g., water tanks arranged side by side and end to end with the central trough located therebetween).

[0093] The water tank array in this embodiment is advantageous because providing a central tank can reduce the total number of components required for operating the water tank system. In addition, the footprint of two water tanks arranged in this manner is less than the footprint of two water tanks arranged separately, which may be advantageous in a location with limited space.

[0094] The central channel may have the same features as the drain and drain described above, but its two edges may need to be of similar height (assuming adjacent tanks are at the same height).

[0095] The tank system (or in fact, a plate-like tank system with a tank that is not formed by a prefabricated base portion) may also include an elevated platform above the central tank. The elevated platform may be adapted to receive a water reservoir thereon, wherein the water reservoir is operable to deliver water waves to one or more of the channels. Such water waves are similar to the waves that occur in the natural environment of the abalone, and can be used to flush the channels clean and to make the abalone grow more muscle mass. In addition, periodic flushing of the channels can assist in oxygenating and feeding the abalone. Because each tank (or even each channel) can have a separate water supply and drainage to help prevent cross contamination, the reservoir can be adapted to isolate the water waves to a separate tank or channel.

[0096] The water reservoir may be movable along the elevated platform, for example by sliding along tracks provided on the elevated platform. It may therefore be relatively easy to move the reservoir, even when full of water, so that the reservoir is aligned with a selected channel or channels in the tank system. Once in position, the water reservoir may be pivotable towards a channel in any of the adjacent tanks so as to deliver a wave of water to a selected channel of a selected tank. In this way, a single reservoir may be used to provide a wave of water to a potentially large number of channels. The reservoir may have substantially the same width as the width of the channel so that the wave of water spans the entire width of the channel. Alternatively, some under- or overlap may be provided.

[0097] It should be noted that the above-mentioned water reservoir may be disposed at a location other than the central passage of the water tank system (eg, at the distal end of an adjacent water tank).

[0098] The tank system (or indeed, a plate-like tank system having a tank that is not formed from prefabricated base sections) may also include an abalone feeding device adapted to move along the length of each channel and to spread food into the channel. Such a feeding device may be automated (thereby saving labor costs), may be able to access channels that are difficult for humans to access, and may be able to more reliably and more consistently dispense food to the abalone.

[0099] Any method that can distribute food to all abalones in the water tank system by using the abalone feeder can be used. In some embodiments, for example, the feeding device can slide along a track arranged on the upright wall between the passages. Such a track network can extend everywhere in the water tank system, wherein the track arranged on the separate base portion is aligned after the water tank system is built. Therefore, the automated feeder can be programmed to travel everywhere in the water tank system and distribute food at the appropriate time.

[0100] The tank system (or indeed, a plate-like tank system having a tank that is not formed by a prefabricated base portion) may also include a walkway along which a person can walk in order to access passages that are inaccessible or difficult to access from the side of the tank system. The walkway may, for example, be defined by the upright walls of the elongated base (if wide enough). Alternatively, the walkway may be a separate component that is wide enough to walk on and is adapted to be connected to the tank system in a suitable manner. In some embodiments, for example, the walkway may be adapted to be connected to one or more of the upright walls in the elongated base.

[0101] The tank system (or indeed, a slab tank system having a tank that is not formed from prefabricated base sections) may also include a dual water supply to prevent mass mortality of abalone in the event of a failure of the main water supply.

[0102] The present invention also provides a process for operating the above-described water tank system, for example, in the manner described below.

[0103] Submersible container for abalone

[0104] In another aspect, the present invention provides a submersible container for storing abalone. The container includes a container wall that defines an enclosure for the abalone, wherein the enclosure includes an inner surface for receiving the abalone thereon. The container also includes one or more apertures that are configured to allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is immersed in water, but not to allow the abalone to pass therethrough. The container also includes one or more feeding ports in the container wall and one or more feed dispensers. Each dispenser includes a reservoir for abalone feed and a mouth portion configured to receive feed at a corresponding feeding port, wherein the one or more dispensers are independently operable to dispense feed contained therein into the enclosure.

[0105] Advantageously, the container is suitable for offshore deployment, thereby freeing up limited onshore resources so that the overall productivity of the abalone can be increased. In addition, abalone grown in a more natural environment draw oxygen and at least some nutrients from the surrounding water, thereby eliminating the need for circulation pumps, etc. and possibly reducing the amount of additional food required. In addition, the feed dispenser can be used to extend the time between inspections of the container without having to adopt the complex and costly procedures currently used in some offshore abalone farms.

[0106] The submersible container may have any suitable size, shape, and configuration, as long as it is capable of storing the abalone in an environment where food and oxygenated seawater are readily available. The container may, for example, be elongated. The container may, for example, be generally tubular. Containers having such shapes may be easier to physically handle and more suitable for storing more abalone while still allowing seawater to flow through them. Other advantages of tubular containers will be described below.

[0107] In some embodiments, for example, the length of the container can be between about 500 mm and 4000 mm (e.g., between about 1000 mm and 3000 mm or about 2200 mm). In some embodiments, the container can have a diameter (or cross-sectional length if the container is non-cylindrical) of between about 1000 mm and 500 mm (e.g., between about 800 mm and 400 mm or about 620 mm).

[0108] The container can be made of any suitable material, keeping in mind that the container will be immersed in seawater to spend most of its service life and will be subject to the harsh conditions associated with the movement of water and periodic collection, inspection and redeployment, as described below. Relatively hard plastic materials are therefore preferred (especially because these materials are relatively easy to form using rotational molding, blow molding, etc.). The container can be made of polyethylene (e.g., food grade polyethylene) using, for example, rotational molding technology (relatively cheap). The container may also be based on black in some embodiments, which provides a dark environment that abalone likes.

[0109] The container also includes one or more apertures configured to allow water to flow through the fence when the container is immersed in water. Typically, in order to achieve a cross flow of water through the fence, at least two apertures will be required, but one large aperture may also be able to provide this function. In embodiments where the submersible container is elongated, the one or more apertures may be provided by apertures on opposite ends of the container. In some embodiments, the container may include two (or more) primary apertures (typically larger apertures, but they may be smaller apertures, which are arranged in a certain way to receive a large flow of seawater therethrough) and a number of secondary (typically smaller) apertures.

[0110] The aperture does not allow abalone to pass therethrough, otherwise abalone may be able to escape from the container (or a predator may enter the container). Preventing abalone from passing through the aperture can be achieved in any suitable manner. The aperture can be provided, for example, in the form of many micropores in the container wall. Alternatively, the aperture can be provided in the form of a screen covering the larger apertures in the container wall (for example, in the case of an elongated container, at either end thereof). This screen allows nutrients and water to freely enter and flow through the fence while retaining abalone. In some embodiments, the screen can be provided in the form of a rigid material plate, which is suitable for being received in a recessed portion of the container wall (this may help to protect the screen from damage).

[0111] This screen can be formed by any suitable material, once again keeping in mind its intended use. For example, the screen must be corrosion-resistant and hard enough to withstand the possible rough sea and impact when in the water and when loading / unloading from a boat. A suitable material for forming the screen is stainless steel, for example, stainless steel of about 1.5mm thickness with 4mm holes, wherein 40% of the surface area is open. Screens of about 1.5mm thickness have been found to be ideal because this is the thickness that abalone can clean by themselves. In use, abalone can feed on the screen, and their mouths can actually approach the aperture so that they may feed on the seaweed etc. located in the aperture. This feeding can help prevent (or at least delay) the biofouling of this type of screen, thus allowing water to flow through the container for a longer time. If the screen is much thicker than 1.5mm, abalone may not actually be able to touch the outermost side of the screen, and therefore the outermost biofouling may occur. However, if the screen is much thinner than 1.5mm, its strength may be impaired.

[0112] A screen with an aperture of about 4 mm (± 1-2 mm) may also be useful, as it can prevent food freshly delivered to the abalone from escaping immediately from the enclosure. In effect, the food remains in the enclosure, where it is available to the abalone for consumption. However, over time, the food dissolves and thus becomes smaller, so that it can subsequently pass through the appropriately sized holes in the screen. In this way, earlier food that has not yet been consumed by the abalone will tend to be flushed out of the enclosure by the seawater flowing through the enclosure.

[0113] Similarly, a screen with an aperture of about 4 mm (± 1-2 mm) may also be useful because it can prevent juvenile predators from entering the enclosure, which may grow to a size that they can threaten growing abalone in the course of a year (e.g., during the first offshore growth stage described herein). For example, some predators may be located in the water column (but they will usually be found on the seabed) and may come into contact with the submersible container. In such cases, predators large enough to eat abalone cannot pass through the screen, but juvenile predators may be able to pass through and may not be noticed during the periodic inspection described herein. However, when abalone is removed from the container after a 12-month period to be sorted or put on the market (after the first or second offshore growth stage, respectively), juvenile predators that may be able to enter the enclosure will be found at this time.

[0114] In an embodiment where the submersible container is a cylindrical container 2200 mm long and 620 mm in diameter, the submersible container may also include two 600 mm diameter and 1.5 mm thick screens formed from 316 stainless steel with 4 mm holes and 40% open area. These screens may be located at either end of the container, and the container may be provided with a circumferential recess a short distance from its end into which the screens may be received.

[0115] The submersible container may also have a number of apertures along its length to further increase water flow through the enclosure. Such apertures may be covered by rectangular side screen sections which are 400mm wide, 200mm high and 1.5mm thick and are again formed from 316 stainless steel perforated with 4mm holes and having a 40% open area.

[0116] The inner surface of the enclosure is adapted to receive abalone thereon. Because abalone tend to position themselves against protrusions or hide in corners, etc., the surface is usually adapted to receive abalone thereon by including many protrusions on the surface. In some embodiments, for example, the inner surface may include a plurality of ribs on the container wall, and the abalone may rest against the plurality of ribs. The ribs may, for example, be arranged substantially parallel to each other so that it is easier to remove the abalone from the enclosure subsequently (for example, so as to sort or put on the market). In embodiments where the container is an elongated shape, for example, the ribs may be arranged to be substantially aligned with the elongated axis of the container. Such protrusions or ribs may also help evenly distribute food and nutrients everywhere in the enclosure because these foods and nutrients cannot gather at the bottom of the enclosure.

[0117] Other ways of increasing the available surface area within the enclosure and upon which abalone may be received (and thus how to increase the storage capacity of the container) are described below.

[0118] Any suitable technique may be used to access abalone contained in a submersible container. For example, if a person only needs to visually inspect the abalone to ensure that nothing bad has happened to them, a simple visual inspection through the aperture (or feeding port, as discussed below) may be sufficient. However, it will often be necessary to more closely inspect the abalone or even actually access the abalone in the container. Therefore, in some embodiments, the container may be openable to access the abalone in the enclosure. The container may, for example, include one or more gates that, once opened, enable a person to access the abalone in the enclosure. The container may, for example, be openable in a manner that makes the entire enclosure easily accessible, which may help to significantly improve the ease with which abalone can be observed or removed.

[0119] In some embodiments, for example, the container may include a first portion and a second portion that are connected or connectable (e.g., hinged or otherwise pivotable) on one side thereof and movable between a container open configuration and a container closed configuration. In such embodiments, only a relatively simple opening motion (possibly in combination with an unlocking motion) may be required to open the container and fully expose the enclosure. In embodiments where the container is elongated, the portions may be connected or connectable (e.g., hinged) together at the longitudinal edges, thereby further simplifying the opening motion.

[0120] The first part and the second part may have any shape and may be adapted to be connected to each other by any suitable mechanism. In some embodiments, the first part and the second part are substantially identical, as this will simplify the construction of the parts (e.g., they may be able to be formed from the same mold). However, this is not necessarily the case in all embodiments, and the first part may be different from the second part. The container may also include a third part (etc.) connected or connectable to one or both of the first and second parts.

[0121] Any suitable locking mechanism may be used to hold the first and second parts in the closed configuration. For example, one or both of the first and second parts may have a mechanical interlock (or multiple such mechanical interlocks). The mechanical interlock may be, for example, a latch that can be grasped by an operator in order to unlock it. Such a latch will typically be recessed into the container wall to make it difficult to accidentally open. Such a recess will also reduce the likelihood of damage to the hinge in use (most likely during collection and deployment of the container from a boat).

[0122] In some embodiments, multiple submersible containers are stackable when in the container open configuration. Stacked containers will generally take up less space and are therefore more efficient to store when not in use or when transporting.

[0123] In some embodiments, the submersible container may be adapted to be received on a surface (i.e., when out of the water) in a highly stable manner. As will be appreciated, a container that may be able to roll (or otherwise move relatively easily) when used on a boat would be unsafe. The container may, for example, be adapted to form at least three separate points of contact with the ground when in a closed configuration. The container may, for example, be adapted to form at least six points of contact with the ground when in an open configuration. Protrusions on the outer wall of the container may be used to provide such stability.

[0124] The walls of the submersible container may have any suitable configuration, keeping in mind the harsh conditions that the container may experience, as discussed above. In some embodiments, for example, the container wall may include an inner wall and an outer wall with a cavity therebetween. This double-walled structure imparts strength to the container, but may also provide other useful features. In some embodiments, for example, the cavity between the inner wall and the outer wall may be adapted to receive air, water, sand (or any other suitable material thereof), or a combination thereof, in order to adjust the buoyancy of the container.

[0125] One or more inlets may be provided for pumping water (etc.) into and out of the cavity between the inner and outer walls, for example in the form of drain plugs which can be screwed into and out of complementary threaded apertures in the container wall. The inner and outer walls may also be formed so that they abut one another at a number of locations, which helps to strengthen the container and may make it easier to form (e.g. by molding).

[0126] As noted above, it will often be desirable to increase the available surface area within the enclosure and upon which abalone may be received, in order to increase the abalone holding capacity of the container. In practice, the more surface area in the enclosure, the greater the number of abalone that can be contained therein, and the more efficient the culture process. Of course, within reason, it is therefore generally best to maximize the amount of surface area inside the enclosure.

[0127] In some embodiments, the enclosure may be configured to receive a member therein that provides an additional interior surface for receiving abalone. The member may be of any suitable form, so long as the abalone can rest on the member, the member can fit within the enclosure, and the member does not adversely impede the flow of water and food through the enclosure. As will be appreciated, the member may also desirably be removable from the enclosure to more easily harvest any abalone thereon.

[0128] The enclosure may be capable of receiving the member in any suitable manner. For example, the enclosure may include a recessed portion adapted to hold one or more crossbars therebetween, with the member depending from the crossbars. Alternatively, the enclosure may include appropriately aligned slots or channels into which the edges of the member are received. Ideally, the member depends within the interior of the enclosure, leaving as much surface area as possible on the interior wall of the container for the abalone.

[0129] The component itself may have any suitable form, as long as it can meet the above functional requirements. In some embodiments, for example, the component may be substantially planar, which makes it easier for abalone to remove (i.e., after removing the component from the fence) and easier to store when not in use. In some embodiments, for example, the component may be foldable to fit within the fence, and in some embodiments may be foldable many times to define many additional surfaces for receiving abalone. The component may be, for example, foldable so that a plurality of additional surfaces are substantially parallel to each other and separated by abalone receiving distances. As will be appreciated, abalone tend to like the corners and corners that this folding will form.

[0130] In some embodiments, multiple components may be present within the enclosure (e.g., extending along the length and / or width of the elongated enclosure, and optionally joined to each other to provide a substantially continuous surface). In some embodiments, fasteners may be provided to releasably attach multiple components together.

[0131] In a particular embodiment, the member can be provided in the form of corrugated plastic or corrugated board (e.g., planar honeycomb board material). For example, a 1.2m×1.2m honeycomb board (e.g., formed by polypropylene and having a thickness of about 4mm) can be folded (e.g., at a folding line that can be formed using thermal techniques known in the art) to produce an inner surface area for abalone to attach and feed. The thin plate may include a 50mm hole for abalone to traverse the surface and search for food, and may include an 18mm hole through which a support rod may be received, which is placed in a receiving lug in the opposite side of the container wall embedded in the fence. This type of honeycomb board member is advantageous because they are lightweight and durable.

[0132] The submersible container also includes one or more feeding ports in the container wall through which feed for the abalone can be dispensed into the enclosure. In some embodiments, the feeding port can be defined by an aperture through the container wall, wherein the aperture is configured to receive a corresponding feed dispenser therein (e.g., using threads, etc.).

[0133] The submersible container also includes one or more feed dispensers. Each feed dispenser includes a reservoir for abalone feed and a mouth portion configured to receive at a corresponding feeding port and is independently operable to dispense the feed contained in its reservoir into the enclosure.

[0134] The delivery of feed to the abalone inside the container of the present invention needs to be carefully monitored-without enough feed, the abalone will not grow at the optimal rate, but too much feed may cause the water quality to be adversely affected and the production cost to increase. Although it is possible to closely monitor the growth of abalone in onshore facilities, offshore monitoring is much more complicated. The feeding of abalone should usually be carried out every week, but a lot of time and energy will be required in offshore facilities to carry out such feeding (compared with onshore facilities). In fact, some containers recommended for offshore abalone farms require the use of divers or remotely controlled diving vehicles in order to feed the abalone contained therein. Using the feed dispenser described herein will significantly reduce the energy and expense associated with feeding abalone in offshore facilities.

[0135] Any suitable mechanism may be used to cause each feed dispenser to dispense the feed contained therein. The feed dispenser may, for example, be operable (or adapted) to dispense the feed contained therein into the enclosure at a predetermined time or in response to a signal (generated internally or externally to the dispenser). In an embodiment using multiple feed dispensers, each of the feed dispensers may be operable (or adapted) to dispense its feed into the enclosure at a different time. Such feed dispensers may therefore be used in combination to reduce the frequency with which containers must be retrieved from the sea to inspect and / or feed abalone without having to employ expensive resources, such as divers.

[0136] Any suitable method may be used to dispense feed contained in the reservoir into the enclosure. In some embodiments, for example, each of the dispensers may include a gate that is movable from a closed position to an open position upon receiving a signal, whereby, when the gate is moved into the open position, feed contained in the reservoir is dispensed into the enclosure. The gate may be, for example, spring loaded, as described in more detail below.

[0137] In a particular embodiment, a feed dispenser for use with the submersible container of the present invention may include: a reservoir configured to hold abalone food; a coupling configured to be received in a corresponding feeding port of the container; and a gate that can move from a closed position to an open position upon receiving a signal. When the gate moves to the open position, the feed contained in the reservoir is dispensed.

[0138] The present invention also provides a feed dispenser suitable for use with the submersible container of the present invention described above, but the feed dispenser can be easily adapted for use with other containers containing abalone, or indeed containers containing other aquatic species. The feed dispenser includes: a reservoir configured to hold feed for the abalone; a mouth portion configured to be received in a feeding port of the container; and a gate that can be moved from a closed position to an open position upon receiving a signal. When the gate is moved to the open position, the feed contained in the reservoir is dispensed.

[0139] As will be appreciated, the use of such a feeder to automatically dispense feed to the abalone will reduce the frequency with which the abalone need to be removed from the water for feeding. Indeed, using a plurality of feeders of the invention, it will be possible to go for a long period of time without having to check the abalone, but in practice this should not exceed about a month, as the stock should be checked at least at this frequency to ensure that the abalone are growing at an appropriate rate, that no predators are present, that the flow of seawater through the container is not impeded by fouling, etc.

[0140] The signal causing each feeder to dispense its feed into the enclosure of containers may be generated internally (eg, at the end of a predetermined time) or externally (eg, in response to a radio or microwave signal sent from a base).

[0141] In certain embodiments, for example, there may be three feeders on the submersible container that are programmed to dispense their feed after 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days, respectively. Thus, once the operator on the boat has checked the abalone in the container to ensure they are growing properly, etc., enough food for 7 days can be added, the container closed, and then returned to the sea. Now, the operator will not have to retrieve this container for inspection, etc., for 28 days.

[0142] In some embodiments, the feeder may also be adapted to provide a warning signal, for example, if the feeder fails to discharge its feed or is otherwise damaged.

[0143] The submersible container may also include additional features or components consistent with its intended use. In some embodiments, for example, the container may also include one or more attachment points (e.g., an aperture adapted to receive a connector or tether therethrough) from which the container may be suspended in the water or lifted in or out of the water for periodic inspection and feeding of abalone and inspection and maintenance of the container. Typically, each container will have at least two attachment points, which are typically located at the far end of the container for maximum stability when suspended in the water or when being lifted / lowered.

[0144] The submersible container may also include features or components for measuring relevant parameters, such as the flux of seawater passing through the fence, the temperature, pH, salinity of the seawater, the concentration of substances (such as heavy metals, etc.) in the water inside the container. These parameters may be useful for optimizing the growth of abalone, or may provide immediate warnings when conditions become unsuitable for abalone. The container may also include a waterproof camera that can transmit visual images of the interior of the container to a remote operator. In some embodiments, the container (or another component of the offshore facility, such as a buoy attached to a longline, as described below) may need to include a radio transmitter to transmit these images to the remote operator. The camera and / or radio transmitter may be powered by solar energy where appropriate. These instruments may be associated with the container in any suitable manner, such as by inserting them into one of the feeding ports in the container (described below).

[0145] Method for growing abalone in an offshore location

[0146] The present invention also provides a method for growing abalone in an offshore location. The method comprises deploying one or more of the submersible containers of the present invention as described above on a longline anchored to the seafloor, and periodically retrieving each of the one or more submersible containers and inspecting the abalone contained therein (e.g., for predators, expected growth, any mortality, etc.). The method will typically also include replacing any empty feed dispensers with full feed dispensers.

[0147] As will be described in more detail below, in some embodiments, one or more submersible containers may be retrieved using a retrieval device suspended from the side of a boat. The retrieval device is operable to lift the container from the water, position the container on the deck of the boat for inspection of the abalone contained therein, and then return the container to the water.

[0148] In some embodiments, the long rope is composed of a rope (trunk) with a length between about 10 meters and 500 meters (for example, a length between about 50 meters and 200 meters, or a length of about 100 meters), which is suspended from (for example, with an interval between about 1 meter and 100 meters, between about 5 meters and 50 meters, or about 10 meters) along the buoy spaced apart from it and fixed to the seabed by spiral anchors, concrete blocks, etc. at its far end. About 20 containers of the present invention can be suspended from the long rope of 100m (for example, between about 1m and 3m below the water surface), which will result in annual production of about 2 tons of abalone. The size of offshore facilities may for example be about 3 hectares and comprise about 10 long ropes. Workboats travel back and forth between the facilities every day, and the facilities are usually very close to hatcheries. Each 3 hectares of place is expected to produce about 20 tons of abalone every year.

[0149] In some embodiments, the method may include a first offshore rearing stage (intermediate growth stage) during which abalone of approximately 25 mm in size removed from the onshore plate tank (after approximately 12 months of onshore duration) are placed in the above-mentioned containers and immersed in water. Each appropriately sized container may contain up to approximately 4,000 abalone of this size. The abalone are periodically fed and inspected, e.g., as described above, for approximately 12 months, during which time the abalone grow to a size of approximately 50 mm.

[0150] At the end of the first offshore rearing phase, the container is removed from the water and sent by boat to a processing facility where the abalone is removed from the container, sorted, inspected (checked for health and weight, and any undersized or too small animals are discarded). The appropriate number (approximately 2,000 abalone of 50 mm) is then returned to another container for the second offshore rearing phase (grow-out phase). The used container is inspected for any predator intrusion and cleaned, ready for reuse. The container containing the abalone is then returned to the offshore facility by boat for the second offshore rearing phase, in which the abalone grows to a size of approximately 80-90 mm over another 12 months, when they are ready to be harvested for market.

[0151] Harvesting occurs at the end of the grow-out phase (i.e., roughly after another 12 months at sea). The abalone are fed an increased amount of food during this phase and grow 25 mm but gain 80% of their final weight. Once again, the container is removed from the longline and sent to a processing facility by boat, where the abalone is removed from the container and sorted by size. They are then processed into one of many different types of market products, including fresh, frozen, canned, IQF (separate quick freezing) or dried. The container is then cleaned for reuse in the first or second offshore rearing phase.

[0152] As mentioned above, during the intermediate stage and the growing-up stage, the abalone inside the container is periodically checked to ensure that they are growing at the expected rate and that nothing bad happens to them. Usually about every month, the container must all be removed from the water so that the feed dispenser is refilled, and during this period of time, the visual inspection of the abalone in each container (through the feeding port or by opening the container) can be carried out. However, during this period, it is a good practice to continuously monitor abalone, and this can be realized by performing regular inspections on the abalone in random containers (random containers on each long rope every few days or every week). During this inspection period, a single container on a long rope can be retrieved and its content can be checked (for example, through the hole, by removing the feed dispenser and through the feeding port to peek into the inside of the container, or by opening the container). If the abalone in the container checked is growing as expected, it can be reasonably inferred that the abalone in the surrounding containers is also the same. Therefore, the regular inspection process can be performed, but the energy paid is a small part of a comprehensive inspection.

[0153] The containers can advantageously be deployed from and retrieved by a maintenance boat or vessel without the need for divers. Further advantageously, the long lines allow the containers to drift with the ebb and flow of the tide, thereby minimizing the effects of shadows cast in the sea bed and improving the "environmentally friendly" nature of the facility. Furthermore, when the containers are suspended below the sea surface, water flow therethrough can be maximized, thereby providing more nutrients and oxygenation than would be provided by a farm located in a fixed location.

[0154] In some embodiments, one or more submersible containers may be retrieved using a retrieval device suspended from the side of a boat or ship that is operable to lift the container from the water, position the container on the deck of the boat for inspection of the abalone contained therein, and then return the container to the water.

[0155] The retrieval device may also be capable of engaging the longline and raising the longline out of the water and to a convenient height so that the container attached to the longline can be accessed by a person on the boat, preferably without having to remove the container from the longline. The retrieval device may also be operable to position the container on the deck of the boat where it can be inspected for abalone in a highly convenient manner (e.g., by opening the container while it rests on the deck and is not hanging off the side of the boat).

[0156] The retrieval device may have any structure suitable for carrying out the functions discussed above.A specific form of retrieval device is described below by way of example only.

[0157] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0158] First reference Figure 1, shows a water tank system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The water tank system 10 has eight prefabricated base sections 12, which are arranged in an array of two base sections wide and four base sections long. The center slot 14 divides the array of the base section into two halves. Each base section 12 is about 5m wide and about 9m long, so that when combined as shown in the figure, eight channels (generally shown as 16) are provided, each of which has a width of about 2.5m and a length of about 18m. The bottom of each base section 12 is about 150mm thick, which provides a suitable balance of strength and weight.

[0159] Each base portion 12 has three upright walls (shown generally as 18) extending the length of the base portion 12 and aligned with corresponding walls on an adjacent base portion to define a channel 16 therebetween. The walls 18 are approximately 150 mm high, which readily enables a water depth of approximately 70 mm to be maintained in the channel 16 (see FIG. Figure 2 ) so that abalone can move around, eat and grow. In some embodiments (not shown), the upper portion of wall 18 can be provided with tracks along which the automated feeder can travel. The structure of wall 18 will be described in more detail below.

[0160] Each prefabricated base portion 12 is precast from concrete and will weigh about 10 tons or so so that it can be transported and assembled using conventional equipment. Although not shown, the surface of the base portion 12 where the abalone will stay may include ridges, etc., that provide shelter for the abalone. The ridges are preferably created during the manufacturing process and may be arranged in a transverse orientation in the channel or in other orientations (such as longitudinal orientation) so as to, for example, assist water flow along the channel 16. The upper portion of the wall 18 may also include a coating (not shown) to help prevent abalone from escaping.

[0161] In an alternative embodiment (see Figure 6 ), the base section 112 may have a width of approximately 10 m and a length of 9 m, which means that an 8-channel water tank system 110 similar to the water tank system 10 would require only four base sections 112. While it may be advantageous to manufacture a water tank system using fewer base sections, such advantages must be carefully evaluated against the difficulty involved in transporting and installing a larger (and therefore potentially heavier) component.

[0162] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the tank system 10 (and 110) can provide not only construction efficiencies compared to existing plate-shaped tank construction methods (i.e., concrete pouring), but also operational and ongoing maintenance efficiencies of the tank system 10 in the abalone farming industry (as will be described below). The tank system 10 provides an environment for growing young abalone from a flat plate tank to a size of approximately 25 mm, after which they can be harvested and placed, for example, in an offshore facility for further growth. Alternatively, if no offshore facility is available, young abalone can be grown in the tank system 10 to a marketable size.

[0163] Although not shown, the prefabricated base portion 12 (and 112) may include other components of the water tank system 10 (and 110), such as plumbing components, electrical components, or components that help attach other parts of the water tank system to the base portion. Such components can be prefabricated in the prefabricated base portion during its manufacture.

[0164] The prefabricated base parts 12, 12 are joined end to end at a joining point 20, Figure 1 The joint 20 is shown in an enlarged form in FIG. The joint 20 has a projecting-retracting arrangement in which a protrusion 22 on one edge of a base portion 12 is received over a lip 24 on the edge of an adjacent base portion 12. The degree of overlap of the joint 20 is typically about 50 mm, and the pressure on the joint 20 is typically sufficient to make it watertight (although in some cases the joint 20 may also be provided with a seal, not shown in the figure). A joint such as the joint 20 may not necessarily be required to join laterally adjacent prefabricated base portions 12, 12, as a watertight joint between the portions will not be necessary (due to the walls 18, 18). The adjacent base portions 12, 12 may be connected using any suitable means, such as clips or other fasteners (not shown), or may be retained in their respective positions due to their weight.

[0165] The distal end of each base portion 12 is free of walls, but is open ended and is therefore capable of engaging the end slots 26, 26 and the central slot 14 in a manner described below. As will be described in more detail below, the end slots 26, 26 and the central slot 14 provide a supply of water to the channel 16 and provide an outlet for the water. In use, water can be arranged to flow through the channel 16 in one direction for a predetermined period of time, and then flow through the channel 16 in the opposite direction for another predetermined period of time. This flow of water simulates the tides and helps to feed and oxygenate the abalone evenly, and helps to clean the channel 16.

[0166] Reference now Figure 2 and Figure 3, showing the end slot 26 and surrounding parts of the portions 12, 12 in more detail. The end slot 26 is adapted to supply water to and drain water from the water tank system 10. The end slot 26 is adapted to sealingly engage the edge of the preformed base portion 12, 12 so that it is in fluid communication with all four channels 16. The slot 26 has a first longitudinal wall 28 and a second longitudinal wall 30. The first wall 28 is adapted to engage the lower side edge of the base 12, 12 (i.e., as shown in FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 30 (as shown) and is lower than the second wall 30 (i.e., when the end slot is in its operating configuration). These height differences enable the slot 26 to be in fluid communication with the channel 16 and to retain water in the channel 16 without the water being able to overflow over the wall 30 (as shown). Figure 2 The end slot 26 also includes a separator 32 (see Figure 3 ), the divider 32 is aligned with the wall 18 to properly position the prefabricated base portions 12, 12 relative to the end slot 26 (as will be described in more detail below) and substantially prevent water from flowing from one channel 16 to the other channel 16 (which may cause cross-contamination of the channels 16, 16). The end slot 26 also includes a raised portion 34, 34 located at its distal edge, which is aligned with the wall 18, 18 located at the corresponding edge of the base portion 12, 12 to prevent water from overflowing from the system 10.

[0167] like Figure 3 , the center divider 32 of the slot 26 extends above and over the wall 28 and has a width that can be received within the gap between the walls 18, 18 of adjacent base portions 12, 12. As described above, this arrangement can help ensure proper (watertight) alignment of the base portions 12, 12 with the end slots 26 and with each other. When the center divider 32 of the slot 26 is received within the gap between the walls 18, 18, and the other walls 18, 18 of each base portion 12, 12 are adjacent and aligned with the divider 32, 32 and the raised ends 34, 34, respectively, the base portions 12, 12 and the end slots 26 are properly aligned with each other.

[0168] The central divider 32 of the slot 26 and the gap between the walls 18, 18 of the adjacent base parts can also provide another advantage. As will be appreciated, it would be a relatively simple way for an operator to visually inspect the four outermost channels 16 of the water tank system 10. However, the innermost four channels 16 are not easy to inspect because they are more than 2.5m from the edge of the system 10. It may therefore be useful to provide a walkway (not shown) along the center of the water tank system 10 so that the operator can walk between the innermost four channels 16. In this regard, because the walls 18 and dividers 32, 34 are all about 150mm wide, the total width of the central wall (i.e., including the walls 18, 18 of the left and right base parts 12, 12 and the divider 32 between them) will be about 450mm wide—that is, wide enough to walk on it. Alternatively, a walkway (not shown) may be provided above the central portion of the system 10, wherein the ribs on the underside of the walkway are adapted to be received between the walls 18, 18 of the left and right base parts 12, 12 and thus support the walkway.

[0169] One or more tubes 36 are provided (see Figure 2 ) to deliver the seawater flow into the terminal tank 26. If there is only one pipe, the divider 32 must not extend all the way to the bottom of the tank 26 so that the water flows under the divider 32 and then flows into each channel 16. Alternatively, a pipe 36 can be provided for each channel 16 (but this will involve more infrastructure). As water flows from the terminal tanks 26, 26 into the channels 16, 16, 16, 16, the volume of seawater flowing out of the one or more pipes 36 is controlled to provide an appropriate flow rate through the channel (and maintain an appropriate water level in the channel).

[0170] The terminal tank 26 also includes one or more drains 37 that can be opened to drain a selectable volume of seawater from the tank. When the water flow is reversed and water flows from the channels 16, 16, 16, 16 into the terminal tanks 26, 26, the volume of seawater drained through the drains 37, 37 is controlled to provide an appropriate flow rate through the channels (and maintain an appropriate water level in the channels).

[0171] The walls 28, 30 and base of the end tank 26 may have a thickness of approximately 150 mm and may be precast concrete similar to the precast base portion 12. The system 10 may also include a barrier or grille (not shown) to prevent abalone from entering the end tank 26 (and central tank 14).

[0172] Reference now Figure 4 and Figure 5, showing the central trough 14 in more detail. Like the end troughs 26, 26, the central trough 14 spans the entire width of the array of adjacent bases 12, 12 and is adapted to supply water to and drain water from the water tank system 10. Each edge wall 38, 38 of the central trough 14 can receive and sealingly engage the underside of the edge of the aligned prefabricated base portions 12, 12 so that the central trough 14 is in fluid communication with all of the channels 16 in the system 10.

[0173] Similar to the end slots 26, the center slot 14 also has dividers (shown generally at 39 and 40) that align with and abut or receive the walls 18 therein and generally prevent water from flowing from one channel 16 to another channel 16, as described above. Figure 4 As can be seen in the figure, the center divider 40 is adapted to be received in a recess between the walls 18, 18 of adjacent bases 12, 12 to ensure proper alignment of the base portions 12, 12 at both ends (i.e., the center dividers 32, 32 engaging the end slots 26, 26). Once so aligned, a substantially watertight seal is formed between the center slot 14 and the channel 16.

[0174] exist Figure 5 , the central tank 14 is shown as having a water supply in the form of inlets 41, 41 and a drainage in the form of a drainage outlet 42. The inlets 41 and drainage outlets 42 are selectively operable (in conjunction with equivalent features in the end tanks 26, 26) to achieve a desired direction of water flow through the channel 16.

[0175] Figure 5 Also shown (partially) is a wave generator 44, which includes a rotating cylinder 46 operable to generate water waves that can help clean the channel 16 by removing any debris and waste that may have accumulated in the channel 16. Periodic flushing of the channel 16 will help maintain the abalone in good health and may help improve muscle quality. The wave generator 44 is located on a platform 48 positioned above the central tank 14 so that the waves can be caused to move in a left or right direction (see Figure 1). Figure 5 ) flows and thus flushes the channels 16 on either side of the central groove 14. Or (and for example as Figure 6 As shown, the wave generator 44 may instead (or additionally) be located above one or both of the end slots 26 , 26 , where the waves will pass through the channel 16 and enter the central slot 14 .

[0176] The wave generator 44 includes a device for filling a rotating cylinder 46 with seawater, such as a faucet, a hose, etc. (not shown). The rotating cylinder 46 is rotatable and includes a large aperture to quickly release water therefrom (not shown). In this way, the operator can fill the cylinder 46 and then quickly rotate the cylinder 46 to release the water into the desired channel 16. If appropriate infrastructure is provided, this operation can also be performed automatically. The cylinder 46 can be rotated in either direction so that waves can be generated in either direction. In another embodiment, the cylinder 46 can be arranged in an unstable configuration so that filling the cylinder 46 (for example, by continuous water supply) causes the cylinder 46 to capsize from time to time (once a specific volume of water is contained therein), thereby generating periodic waves.

[0177] The wave generator 44 may also include wheels 50 that may be placed on tracks 51 disposed on the platform 48 so as to be slidable between adjacent channels 16. In this manner, an operator may use the cylinder 46 to flush a first channel 16, and then push the cylinder 46 along the tracks 50 until the cylinder 46 is positioned over a second channel 16, and repeat the process.

[0178] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the wave generator may include at least one sprayer for spraying water. In this alternative embodiment, the wave generator relies on a movable nozzle to generate waves. Specifically, the wave generator includes a nozzle mounted on a gantry or the like, wherein the gantry can be moved up and down along the length of one or more channels 16. In use, the operator will position the gantry at one end of the channel 16, activate the sprayer, and then move the gantry along the length of the channel 16. The sprayer can be oriented in the direction of movement so that waves are generated. In addition, the direction of the sprayer may be user-configurable so that the operator can orient the sprayer in the opposite orientation for the return stroke along the channel 16. Also in this embodiment, the gantry can be located on a track (not shown), such as a track located on the wall 18.

[0179] Figure 6An alternative embodiment of a water tank system in the form of a water tank system 110 is shown in FIG. The water tank system 110 has four prefabricated base sections 112 arranged in an array of one base section 112 wide and four base sections 112 long. A central trough 114 divides the array of base sections into two halves. Each base section 112 is approximately 10 m wide and approximately 9 m long, so that when combined as shown, four channels (generally shown as 116) having a width of approximately 2.5 m are provided in each half (i.e., the system 100 has a total of eight channels 116). The water tank system 110 also includes three wave generating devices 144 positioned above the central trough 114 and the end troughs 126, 126.

[0180] The prefabricated base part 112 of the water tank system 110 is not placed directly on the ground, but is placed in an elevated position. This arrangement is advantageous because space for the center groove 114 and the end grooves 126, 126 is provided, and the foundation does not need to be prepared. In one embodiment, a pillar (such as the spiral pillar shown generally at 160) is used to provide a proposed height. In this way, during construction, the spiral pillar 160 is screwed into the ground to reach the proposed height, after which the prefabricated base part 112 (separately or together) is placed on the spiral pillar 160. The spiral pillar 160 also provides support for the center groove 114 and the end grooves 126, 126, wherein the prefabricated base part 112 is positioned relative to the groove in the manner described above. The relative height of each spiral pillar 160 can be adjusted by screwing the pillar 160 into or out of the ground so as to provide substantially uniform support for the entire water tank system 110.

[0181] Reference now Figure 7 , a water supply and drainage system 200 is shown for supplying water flow to eight channels (generally shown as 216) in a water tank system 210. The supply system 200 has a main supply line 270. The main supply line 270 typically draws water directly from the sea. The supply system 200 also includes a secondary backup line 280 for the case where the main supply line 270 fails for any reason or provides insufficient water flow. The main supply line 270 and the secondary backup line 280 are capable of supplying water to the end water supply and drainage tanks 226, 226 and the central water supply and drainage tank 214.

[0182] The drainage system 200 includes a drainage outlet (generally shown at 290) that is selectively operable by a control valve (generally shown at 292). The drainage outlet 290 discharges into a drainage spur 294, which may include one or more manholes for access (not shown). The drainage spur 294 discharges into one or more sedimentation tanks (also not shown), where the water may be stored (and treated, if necessary) before being returned to the sea.

[0183] Reference now Figure 8 , showing an exemplary array of tank systems 10 (or 110 or 210). The tank array includes six tank systems (generally shown as 10) that can be housed in a shed 60. The shed 60 can, for example, provide a dark environment that abalone prefer. The shed 60 includes a work and storage area 62 that can be accessed through one or more doors 64. A water supply and drainage system (similar to the above reference Figure 7 The water supply and drainage system described) can be used to supply water to all water tank systems 10 inside the shed 60.

[0184] Reference now Figures 9 to 12 , showing a submersible container for storing abalone, which is Fig. 9 In the form of a tube 300 and in Figures 10 to 12 300 and 301 are identical except for the number of feeding ports they have, with tube 300 having three feeding ports and tube 301 having only one feeding port. The same reference numbers will be used below to describe the common features of tubes 300 and 301.

[0185] In this embodiment, the shape of pipe 300 and 301 is tubular, with an internal diameter of about 570mm and a length of about 2200mm. However, the shape of pipe 300 / 301 can be configured according to its expected application and can be spherical or similar shape, or cross section can be non-circular (for example, elliptical, triangle, square, etc.). Tubular shape advantageously provides processing convenience, allows water to pass through pipe 300 / 301 simultaneously, wherein pipe is usually aligned with tidal flow and / or ocean current in use to maximize the water flowing therethrough. Pipe 300 / 301 can be made of suitable plastic material, such as polyethylene, and preferably food grade polyethylene, so that there is no risk of contaminating abalone for human consumption. Pipe 300 / 301 is preferably black (at least inside), because abalone likes dark environment. However, the highly visible color on the outside of pipe 300 / 301 makes it more visually distinct and therefore easier to locate when in water.

[0186] Tube 300 / 301 includes two halves: an upper half 302 and a lower half 304. Upper half 302 and lower half 304 are joined along one edge by a hinge, generally shown as hinge 306. Hinge 306 may be an integral hinge having a PVC or PE hinge rod. As shown by comparison Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As can be seen, the tube 300 / 301 is fully openable to allow access to its interior for cleaning, maintenance, and abalone harvesting. The upper half 302 and lower half 304 are substantially identical to one another, allowing the tubes 300 / 301 to be made from the same plastic injection or rotational mold (the tube does not include extensions, allowing it to be made from a single plastic injection or rotational mold). Fig.10 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the empty tubes 300 / 301 can be stacked together for storage when in the open configuration.

[0187] The tube 300 / 301 also includes a releasable mechanical interlock, generally shown in the form of a latch 308 (see Fig.10 ), which allows the tube 300 / 301 to be locked in its closed configuration. Each latch 308 includes a male prong 310 on the edge of the lower half 304, which is adapted to be received in a corresponding recess 312 on the edge of the upper half 302 (or vice versa). The tongue on the prong 310 is retained by a corresponding groove in the recess 312, so that once in its closed configuration, a simultaneous push and open action (highly unlikely to be performed accidentally, especially when there are many latches 308 to open) is required to open the tube 300 / 301. Fig.10 As can be seen in Figure 3, the latch 308 is recessed to avoid damage during use and to reduce the likelihood of being inadvertently opened, whether at sea or when being loaded / unloaded.

[0188] The wall of the tube 300 / 301 has a double-layer structure having an outer layer (in Fig. 9 ) and the inner layer (in Fig.10 315 ), the outer and inner layers define a cavity therebetween. This cavity may be filled with water, air, sand, or a combination thereof, in order to adjust the buoyancy of the tube 300 / 301, and apertures with plugs 314 are provided in the upper half 302 and lower half 304 to facilitate this operation. Both the inner and outer layers also include a number of dimples (generally shown at 315) that abut one another within the cavity to increase the structural rigidity of the wall. The dimples 315 may be generally conical, which may help to further increase strength.

[0189] The tube 300 / 301 also has two lifting lugs (shown generally at 316) at each end of each half 302, 304. The lifting lugs 316 are integrally formed with the tube wall and include apertures into which ropes or other attachment devices may be received in order to suspend the tube 300 / 301 in the water and / or retrieve and deploy the tube (as described below). Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As can be seen in the figure, the lifting lugs 316, 316 are also configured so that each half of the tube 300 forms at least two (and preferably three, as shown in the figure) contact points with the ground to prevent the circular tube 300 / 301 from rolling when resting on a surface (e.g., the deck of a boat).

[0190] Although the tube 300 / 301 can be located on the seafloor while the abalone contained therein grows, it is generally preferred to suspend it in the water column (i.e., in this case it is more accessible for inspection, more likely to be exposed to tidal currents and ocean currents, less susceptible to predators and biofouling, etc.). The upper half 302 of the tube 300 / 301 therefore also has an aperture (generally shown at 318) at each end for receiving a tether (not shown) by which the tube can be suspended, for example, from a long line into the sea (described below). The tether can be inserted through the aperture 318 and the tether can be tied using a safety knot (such as a sailor's knot) to secure the tube 300 / 301 to the tether. In this way, the tether can pass freely through the aperture, thereby allowing the tube 300 / 301 to float up and down in the ocean current. The aperture 318 is oriented upward in use to engage the tether. A corresponding aperture (shown generally at 319 ) may also be provided on the lower portion 304 , to which, for example, a weight may be attached.

[0191] like Fig.10 As can be seen in the figure, the inner surface of the upper half 302 and the lower half 304 includes a number of longitudinally extending ribs (generally shown at 320). The ribs 320 promote abalone habitat by allowing food to accumulate and providing obstacles against which the abalone can rest. The ribs 320 can also help increase the structural rigidity of the tube 300 / 301.

[0192] The tube 300 / 301 also includes a number of apertures configured to allow water to flow through the interior thereof. The tube 300 / 301 includes end apertures 322 and 324 and a number of side apertures (shown generally at 326). Because the apertures 322, 324, and 326 are very large, in order to prevent the abalone from escaping, the apertures 322, 324, and 326 are covered with a screen (shown generally as screen 328) (at Fig. 9322). The screen 328 allows water to flow therethrough in use, but is too thin for the abalone to pass through. The screen 328 is formed of corrosion resistant stainless steel and has a thickness and aperture that enables the abalone to clean themselves by ingestion (in the manner described above). The screen 328 is provided in the form of a disc having a rubber ring (not numbered) on its periphery. The rubber ring is adapted to be received in recesses 330, 330 located at opposite ends of the upper half 302 and the lower half 304 (see FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.12 ). Each recess 330 is located a short distance inside the interior of the tube 300 / 301 to protect the screen 328 from impact and damage. Once the tube 300 / 301 is closed, the screen 328 is securely retained within the recess 330 at each end of the tube 300 / 301 and defines an enclosure for the abalone therebetween.

[0193] The upper half 302 of the tube 300 also includes three feeding ports (shown at 332, 332 and 332), each of which is adapted to receive a feed dispenser (described below) therein. The feeding ports 332, 332 and 332 are evenly spaced along the length of the tube 300. Similarly, the upper half 302 of the tube 301 includes a centrally located feeding port (shown at 332). Each feeding port 332 has threads (not shown) into which a feed dispenser can be screwed and through which a feed dispenser can extend into the interior of the tube, as will be described in more detail below. When it is not equipped with a feed dispenser, the feeding port 332 can be covered with a removable plug, such as a round plug or a screw-type plug (not shown).

[0194] Reference now Fig.11 and Fig.12 , it is shown that pipe 300 / 301 comprises the member for increasing the available surface area of ​​abalone inside the pipe, and the member is in the form of folding honeycomb plate 334.As described above, increasing the available surface area inside pipe 300 / 301 will increase the abalone carrying capacity of pipe.The thin plate 334 is folded into an accordion-type configuration and is located in pipe 300 / 301 and is held in place by at least one (for a pipe of this length, typically three) crossbar 336 located inside.As can be seen, thin plate 334 is suspended in pipe 300 / 301, and therefore can not adversely affect the abalone carrying capacity of the inner wall of pipe.Crossbar 336 engages the inside of pipe in the manner described below.According to the size of thin plate 334 and the length of pipe 300 / 301, more than one thin plate 334 can be provided to maximize the available surface area inside the pipe.

[0195] In this way, maximum surface area is provided in pipe 300 / 301, so that the abalone of maximum possible quantity can be deposited therein. In addition, the accordion-type shape of member provides many nooks and crannies, abalone can hide therein and food can gather here, thereby provide ideal growth environment for abalone. However, advantageously, because thin plate 334 is provided in the form of a single member of substantially plane when unfolding, it is easy to remove (that is, intact) from pipe and once unfold, just very easy to remove abalone from it (there is no corner etc. that can be hidden for abalone). The orientation of thin plate 334 (substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of pipe 300 / 301) makes the oxygenated seawater of sufficient volume flow through pipe.

[0196] Fig.13 An alternative embodiment of sheet 334 is shown in an unfolded configuration and in the form of sheet 337. Sheet 337 has a similar construction and form (when folded) to sheet 334 and is otherwise identical to sheet 334 except for a slightly different configuration of apertures therein (described below). Sheet 337 has a number of pre-fold lines (generally shown as 338) to enable it to be easily folded into a Fig.11 and Fig.12 . Pre-fold lines 338 may be applied to sheet 337 (and to sheet 334) during construction, or may be added in the field using any suitable heat or ultrasound based technique. Sheets 337 (and 334) include relatively thinner connecting strips (generally shown as 340) between relatively wider flat panel portions (generally shown as 342). Connecting strips 340 have a width sufficient to provide a distance between adjacent flat panel portions 342, 342 (i.e., when folded), whereby the abalone is free to move around without hindrance.

[0197] The sheet 337 also has an array of relatively large apertures (generally shown as 344) that allow abalone, food, oxygenated water, etc. to pass therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the large apertures 344 are arranged so that each plate portion 342 includes two apertures 344, and each connecting strip 340 includes three apertures 344. The smaller apertures, generally shown as 346, are sized and positioned to receive the crossbar 336 therethrough when the sheet 337 (or 334) is in a folded configuration so that the folded sheet can be mounted within the interior of the tube 300 / 301, as described above (see Fig.12 ).

[0198] The sheet 337 also has one or more fasteners 348 (for clarity, Fig.13 Only one fastener is shown in the figure) which is used to fasten adjacent plate portions 342, 342 to each other and thus to hold the thin plate 337 (or 334) in place. Fig.11 and Fig.12 The flat plate fastener 348 includes a releasable mechanical interlock so that the flat plate portions 342, 342 are releasably fastened together by a slot and tab arrangement. In this regard, the flat plate fastener 348 has a tab 350 that can be folded inwardly so that the fastener 348 can be inserted into a corresponding slot (generally shown as slot 352) of the adjacent flat plate 342. Once through the slot 352, the tab 350 tends to elastically expand, thereby making the fastener 348 too large to pass back through the slot 352. Preferably, the flat plate fastener 348 is press-cut so as to be integral with the portion 342, wherein the fastener 348 can be folded up in use so as to be inserted into the slot 352. Alternatively, the plate fasteners 348 may be adhered to the surface of the adjacent plate portion 342, but such an arrangement may result in damage to the plate and / or fasteners when the sheet 334 is removed from the tube 300 / 301 and unfolded to provide easier access to the abalone thereon.

[0199] like Fig.11 As best shown in , the thin plate 334 / 337 can be folded to define an outer profile having a shape suitable for fitting in the circular interior of the tube 300 / 301 in use. Thus, the width of the flat plate 342 can vary, becoming increasingly narrower towards the edge of the thin plate 334 / 337.

[0200] As described above, the sheets 334 and 337 are made of a lightweight and durable honeycomb material. The preferred orientation of the grooves is shown in the cutout 354 (see Fig.13 ). This orientation advantageously allows for extended rigidity of the sheets 334 / 337 and allows any trapped air to escape when immersed in water. The honeycomb panel material may be made of food grade material and may be black, as abalone prefer dark environments.

[0201] At the end of the abalone growth cycle, the folded sheets 334 / 337 can be removed from the interior of the tubes 300 / 301 (i.e., once removed from the water and opened) and unfolded to provide a generally planar surface. As will be appreciated, it is much easier to remove abalone from a planar surface than from a folded surface.

[0202] As will be described in more detail below, pipe 300 / 301 is suitable for use in the configuration immersed in water in offshore abalone farm. Three thousand or more young abalones with a length of about 25mm are introduced into the pipe, and are fed regularly (about every 1-2 weeks, for example, as described below) with suitable prepared food. After about 1 year, the length of the abalone will grow to about 50mm and be ready to remove from the pipe subsequently, by size classification, and roughly 1800 abalones with a length of about 50mm are loaded back into the pipe (not necessarily the same pipe). The newly loaded pipe will be immersed in water again in the offshore farm approximately other 12 months subsequently. After this period of time, open the pipe and remove the ripe abalone that diameter is roughly 90mm and make it ready to put on the market.

[0203] Reference now Figures 14 to 18 , a feed dispenser for use with tubes 300 / 301 (for example) is shown in the form of a dispenser 400. Dispenser 400 has threads 402 and a cap 404 for coupling (in a manner described below) with feeding ports 332 of tubes 300 and 301. As shown by comparison Fig.14 and Fig.15 It can be seen that the lid 404 is operable to be in the closed position ( Fig.14 ) and the open position ( Fig.15 ). Once the lid 404 is opened, the interior 406 of the dispenser 400 is accessible, as will be described in more detail below. The lid 404 is coupled to the dispenser 400 along a hinge 408 and is generally biased toward the open position so that it opens quickly and moves to the open position after release. Fig.15 The lid 404 has a number of projections (shown generally at 410) that are configured to be received in complementary recesses (shown generally at 412) in the dispenser 400. The lips visible on the projections 410 interact with complementary protrusions (not shown) within the recesses 412 to keep the lid 404 closed until the protrusions are moved, after which the lid 404 pops open.

[0204] The length of time that the lid 404 remains closed can be predetermined by the user, for example, immediately before they couple the filled dispenser 400 to the feeding port 332 of the tube 300 / 301. Alternatively, the length of time that the lid 404 remains closed can be controlled externally. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the dispenser 400 includes a timer (not shown) and a rotatable sleeve 414 that can be rotated relative to the rest of the body of the dispenser to adjust the length of time before the lid 404 will open. A mark (generally shown as 416) can be included so that the operator can accurately set the desired time period. The mark can, for example, indicate the number of hours, days, or weeks before the timer will open the lid 404. Typically, the mark will indicate a time period of 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, or 4 weeks, but even up to 5 weeks.

[0205] Reference now Fig.16 , shows the opposite end of the dispenser 400, which includes a recessed portion (not numbered) and a handle 418 to facilitate easy transport of the dispenser. The dispenser 400 also includes a valve 420 through which air can be pumped into the interior 406 for reasons described below.

[0206] Reference now Fig.17 , a cross-sectional view of the dispenser 400 is shown to more clearly show its interior 406 and its function. The dispenser 400 defines an internal chamber 422, which is configured to store and then quickly dispense abalone feed. The internal chamber 422 may include a piston 424 in some embodiments, which is operable to quickly move in a downward direction after the lid 404 is opened (see Fig.17 ) so that the food contained therein is quickly ejected from the chamber 422. Because the food will be deployed in an underwater environment and water will flow rapidly into the chamber 422 once the lid 404 is opened, it is generally best to eject the food quickly to avoid the influx of water causing the food to not be fully dispensed. The piston 424 can be operated by any suitable mechanism (not shown), such as by a spring mechanism or by compressed air (e.g., pumped through valve 420). In some embodiments, the piston 424 may not be required, for example, the internal chamber 422 can be pressurized with air so that when the lid 404 is opened, the air and the abalone food it entrains are ejected from the chamber 422 very quickly.

[0207] Reference now Fig.18, shows the dispenser 400 (in the lid open configuration) screwed into the feeding port 332 of the upper half 302 of the tube 300 (as described above, the tube 301 may be shown instead). As can be seen, the thickness of the threaded portion 402 of the dispenser 400 is about the same as the thickness of the wall of the tube 300 so as to provide a generally flush surface therebetween (which can help reduce biofouling). In addition, in its open configuration, the lid 404 is positioned so that it does not hinder the removal of the used dispenser 400 from the tube 300 (e.g., during inspection and refilling). The operator need only unscrew the dispenser 400 from the tube 300 and remove it directly from the tube 300.

[0208] Because abalone tends to move around in the inside of pipe 300, it is usually necessary to protect the opening of distributor 400 in order to prevent abalone from resting on or above the opening, which may prevent the lid 404 of distributor 400 from being opened. A method of realizing this protection is to use a shield 426 usually made of a screen material, which will allow water and feed to pass through but does not allow abalone to pass through. Shield 426 can be made of the same stainless steel screen described above, and abalone can crawl on it and clean it in a similar manner. As can be seen, the edge of the inner wall of the adjacent pipe 300 of shield 426 should be substantially coplanar with the surface, otherwise biofouling may occur at the edge of the raised edge. The edge of shield 426 can be, for example, slightly recessed into the inner wall of pipe 300, but this may not be necessary when the material making shield 426 is thin enough.

[0209] In use, the operator will select the appropriate dispenser 400, which is filled with abalone feed and whose lid is closed. The dispenser may, for example, be color-coded to indicate the type or quantity of feed contained therein (e.g., suitable for abalone of a particular size) or to indicate a delay before the lid 404 is opened. In an embodiment where the tube 300 has three feeding ports 332, the operator will select three appropriate dispensers 400 and screw them into their respective ports. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the dispenser may be adapted to be securely received in the feeding port by snap-fit, bayonet fit, friction fit, etc.

[0210] Each of the dispensers 400 will be configured to open its lid at predetermined intervals as described above and thus dispense the feed contained therein into the tube 300. For example, the red dispenser may be configured to open its lid after 1 week, the orange dispenser after 2 weeks, and the green dispenser after 3 weeks. After the lid of the green dispenser is opened for a week, it is planned that the tube 300 will be removed from the water at this time, its abalone will be checked and the three used dispensers 400 will be replaced with new ones.

[0211] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the dispenser 400 may include a signal receiver that causes the lid 404 to open upon receipt of an appropriate signal. In this manner, a signal generated by an external source (e.g., by a computer system that manages an abalone farm) can be used to control the rate at which the abalone in the tube 300 / 310 is fed. The dispenser 400 may also include a transmitter (also not shown) that transmits a signal if a predetermined event occurs (e.g., the lid 404 is not opened). Receipt of such a signal will trigger an appropriate alarm, e.g., the tube 300 / 301 is not retrieved as planned in order to feed the abalone and replace the failed dispenser.

[0212] Referring now to Figure 19 and Figure 20, a part for the offshore farm for raising abalone is shown.As best shown in Figure 19, long rope 500 is anchored to the seabed using concrete block 502 (or other suitable devices) at either end.Many floating bodies (generally shown as floating body 504) are located along the length of long rope 500 and maintain long rope 500 only at required distance under the water surface.Many pipes 300 (can be changed into or use pipe 301 in addition) are tied to long rope 500 and hang down below the water surface.Long rope 500 can have any length, and is about 100m long in the embodiment shown.Six floating bodies 504 are roughly evenly spaced along long rope 500, and four pipes 300 hang down between adjacent floating bodies 504 (that is, long rope 500 has 20 pipes 300 altogether).

[0213] The length of the rise from anchor 502 to first buoy 504 may be about 10 meters, but may be adapted to be longer or shorter to take into account tides and water depths. However, even if the rise is stationary and the farm includes other long lines nearby (typically, such long lines will be arranged parallel to each other and approximately 30 meters apart), each long line and its associated tube will tend to float in the same direction as the tidal flow, thereby preventing interference therebetween.

[0214] Referring now to FIG. 20 , the tube 300 is shown suspended on a longline 500 by tethers 506, 506 attached to apertures 318, 318 at the distal end of the upper half 302 of the tube 300. The tethers 506, 506 are of a length such that the tube 300 hangs approximately 1 m below the water surface, which has been found to be an ideal abalone growth depth. As will be described in more detail below, the tube 300 suspended on the longline 500 can be lifted from time to time to a boat for maintenance, feeding, inspection, etc. of the abalone, usually without the use of divers.

[0215] Reference now Fig.21 and Fig. 22, showing a boat 600 having two retrieval devices 602, 602 on one side thereof. The boat 600 includes a generally flat working area 604 on which the tube 300 (or 301) can be placed and opened for visual inspection and feeding of abalone contained therein. In some embodiments (not shown), the generally flat working area can be provided in the form of a deck that can slide out from the side of the boat 600, which can help make the tube 300 hanging adjacent to the boat even more accessible.

[0216] The retrieval devices 602, 602 are adapted to lift the longline 500 and any pipe 300 thereon. In use, the boat 600 is parked alongside the longline 500 and the longline is lifted (e.g., after being hooked with a hook, the longline may then be lifted mechanically or manually) so that the longline engages the two devices 602, 602 (as will be described below). Once so positioned, the longline 500 is held high alongside the boat 600 so that personnel on the boat can easily reach the pipe 300 hanging from the longline 500. The spacing between the devices 602, 602 at the far end of the working area 604 ensures that the boat 600 remains generally parallel to the longline 500, regardless of any wind or current that may act on the boat.

[0217] Now more specifically refer to Fig. 22 , shows an enlarged view of one of the retrieval devices 602. The device 602 includes an arm 606 for engaging the longline 500. The arm 606 is coupled to the boat 600 by a cantilever pivot 608 so that it is stowed when not in use (i.e., the stowed device 602 will not hang over the side of the boat). The device 602 also includes a rope engagement device 610 for engaging the longline 500 in use. As is apparent from the inwardly tapered configuration of the rope engagement device 610, the rope engagement device 610 is adapted to frictionally engage the longline 500 in use. The rope engagement device 610 can be rotated so that the boat 600 can travel along the longline 500 (using its own motor or by an electric motor or hydraulic motor (not shown) in one or both of the devices 602, 602), servicing the pipe 300 along the way.

[0218] Rope engagement device 610 defines a space therein for engaging long rope 500, the space being defined by inner disc member 612 and outer disc member 614. Inner disc member 612 may include one or more raised members (generally shown at 616) located on its inner surface and adapted to frictionally engage long rope 500 (i.e., to grasp long rope 500 and tow boat 600 along long rope 500). Inner disc member 612 may also include teeth generally shown at 618 positioned along the edge (see also Fig.21), the teeth being used to receive and engage one or more tethers 506 in use. In this way, the teeth 618 provide a gap in which the tethers 506 can be received, thereby ensuring that the tube 300 (and any tethers securing the buoy 504) are engaged by the inner disc member 612. In this way, rotation of the inner disc member 612 allows the boat 600 to be towed along the longline 500.

[0219] The retrieval device 602 also has a rope guide 620 which is a curved track adapted to guide the long rope 500 towards and onto the rope engagement device 610 in use. The rope guide 620 also guides the tether 506 for the tube 300 and the floating body 504 between the rope guide 620 and the boat 600 to reduce the risk of the tether 506 becoming entangled in the rope guide 620. The rope guide 620 extends forwardly towards the bow of the boat 600 and rearwardly towards the stern of the boat 600.

[0220] In use, a boat 600 with retrieval devices 602, 602 is dispatched at periodic intervals to feed, maintain, inspect or collect the pipe 300 suspended from the long line 500. The boat 600 stops alongside the long line 500, lifts the long line 500 and then engages it in the rope engagement devices 610, 610. As the boat 600 moves along the long line 500, the pipe 300 suspended from the long line 500 is lifted out of the water and lifted to a convenient location where the pipe 300 can be accessed from the edge of the boat 600 (e.g., Fig.21 604) in order to inspect and / or maintain the tubes. If necessary, the tubes 300 can be positioned over the work area 604 where they can be opened to inspect the abalone and the condition of the interior of the tubes. The rope engagement device 610 is hydraulically rotated to tow the boat 600 along the longline 500 to repeat this process for each of the tubes 300 on the longline 500. Once all of the tubes 300 on a particular longline 500 have been inspected, the boat 600 can turn around and repeat this process for another longline (not shown). In this way, it is possible to inspect a considerable number of tubes 300 containing abalone without necessarily requiring a diver or having to perform any heavy lifting. As will be appreciated, this will significantly reduce the costs associated with offshore abalone farms and greatly increase their efficiency.

[0221] The boat 600 may also be provided with a storage area (not shown) which may be used to store tubes 300 removed from the longline 500 as the abalone contained therein have completed their first or second offshore growth cycle (described above) and need to be properly graded. Such a storage area may also be used to carry newly loaded tubes 300 containing abalone ready to enter their first or second offshore growth cycle.

[0222] As described herein, the present invention provides improved abalone farming equipment and methods. Embodiments of the present invention provide a number of advantages over existing abalone farming equipment and methods, some of which are summarized below.

[0223] The water tank of the present invention may be advantageous, for example, because:

[0224] Providing water tanks in modular form can simplify the construction of such water tanks;

[0225] Concrete panels manufactured in a controlled environment are often less prone to defects (e.g., cracking, deformation, etc.) than when constructed on site;

[0226] Modular water tanks can be easily mounted on pillars, which eliminates the need for foundations.

[0227] The submersible container of the present invention may be advantageous, for example, because:

[0228] The abalone are safely contained in an environment where predators are unlikely to be able to reach them;

[0229] Abalone stocks may only be inspected once a month;

[0230] The container can be easily inspected, retrieved, and deployed without the need for divers or other complex and expensive underwater equipment; and

[0231] • Folding members located in a cantilevered position inside the container greatly increase the abalone carrying capacity of the container, but allow for easy removal of abalone therefrom when deployed.

[0232] Those skilled in the art of the present invention will appreciate that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the following claims.

[0233] It will also be understood that although the foregoing description refers to a specific order of method steps related to particular applications, parts of devices and equipment used to perform such methods and their configuration, such details are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0234] In the following claims and in the foregoing description of the invention, unless the context requires otherwise (either due to express language or necessary implication), the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e., to specify the presence of stated features but not to exclude the presence or addition of additional features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A submersible container for storing abalone, the container comprising: a container wall defining an enclosure for the abalone, the enclosure including an inner surface for receiving the abalone thereon; one or more apertures configured to allow water to flow through the enclosure when the container is immersed in water but not to allow abalone to pass therethrough; one or more feeding ports in the container wall; as well as One or more feed dispensers, each feed dispenser comprising a reservoir for abalone feed and a mouth portion configured to receive feed at a corresponding feeding port, wherein each of the one or more feed dispensers is independently operable to dispense feed contained therein into the enclosure at predetermined times.

2. A submersible container as described in claim 1, wherein the inner surface includes a plurality of ribs on the container wall against which abalone can rest.

3. A submersible container as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the fence is configured to receive a member therein, the member providing a further internal surface for receiving abalone thereon.

4. A submersible container as claimed in claim 3, wherein the member is planar.

5. A submersible container as claimed in claim 3, wherein the member is foldable to fit within the enclosure.

6. A submersible container as claimed in claim 3, wherein the member is foldable multiple times to define a plurality of additional interior surfaces for receiving abalone thereon.

7. A submersible container as claimed in claim 6, wherein the member is collapsible so that the plurality of additional inner surfaces are parallel to each other and separated by an abalone receiving distance.

8. A submersible container as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the container wall comprises an inner wall and an outer wall with a cavity therebetween.

9. A submersible container as claimed in claim 8, wherein the cavity is adapted to receive air, water or sand to adjust the buoyancy of the container.

10. A submersible container as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the container is tubular in shape.

11. A submersible container as claimed in claim 10, wherein the container includes apertures at opposite ends of the container.

12. A submersible container as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the container includes two or more feed dispensers, and the multiple feed dispensers are suitable for dispensing feed contained therein into the enclosure at different predetermined times.

13. A submersible container as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the dispensers includes a gate that can be moved from a closed position to an open position after receiving a signal, wherein when the gate moves to the open position, the feed contained in the storage is dispensed.

14. A feed dispenser for use with a submersible container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, the feed dispenser comprising: a storage container configured to hold feed for abalone; a mouth portion configured to be received in the feeding port of the container; a gate which can be moved from a closed position to an open position upon receiving a signal, When the gate is moved to the open position, feed contained in the reservoir is dispensed.

15. A feed dispenser as claimed in claim 14, wherein the signal occurs at the end of a predetermined time.

16. The feed dispenser of claim 14, wherein the signal is generated by an external source.

17. A method for growing abalone in an offshore location, the method comprising: deploying one or more of the submersible containers of any one of claims 1 to 13 on a longline anchored to the seafloor; as well as Each of the one or more submersible containers is periodically retrieved and inspected for abalone contained therein.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the method further comprises replacing any empty feed dispensers with full feed dispensers.

19. A method as claimed in claim 17 or 18, wherein the one or more submersible containers are retrieved by a retrieval device suspended from the side of a boat, the retrieval device being operable to lift the container from the water, position the container on the deck of the boat for inspection of the abalone contained therein, and then return the container to the water.

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