Aquaculture float apparatus and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a float designed for sub-tidal marine aquaculture farms employing anchored main lines. The float comprises a container affixed directly or indirectly to the main line, capable of floating at the water's surface. This container defines an enclosure for retaining cultivated species and extends above and below the waterline. It is 5 configured to rotate horizontally at intervals, selectively exposing different regions above the waterline to atmospheric conditions while maintaining partial submersion to facilitate species settlement. A chassis may be included to support the container at the waterline.

Description

[0001] AQUACULTURE FLOAT APPARATUS AND METHOD

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to methods and apparatus of Aquaculture farming but is not limited thereto. In particular, the present invention relates to methods and apparatus for cultivating and / or harvesting shellfish or seaweed or algae's etc. and may provide improved robustness and / or useability particularly suitable for exposed subtidal environments.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] There are a number of methods and apparatus for cultivating and harvesting shellfish (such as oysters, mussels etc.). However, it is envisaged that the apparatus and methods herein may also be suitable for:

[0006] • all commercial shellfish such as mussels, oysters, scallops, tuatua, cockles etc.

[0007] • Seaweed and / or algae cultivation.

[0008] • Holding / Processing of crabs, shrimp, prawns, kina, sea slugs, fish etc.

[0009] • Environmental support, for example supporting floating wetland plants. For example, water quality management of oxidation ponds etc.

[0010] • Construction of floating wetland anchored in pond or waterway.

[0011] One successful type of system involves cultivating shellfish (which initially may be shellfish spat) in mesh bags or baskets (typically molded from suitable UV stabilized polymers such as Polyethylene, Polyester or other thermoplastic), and situating them in an intertidal or subtidal environment.

[0012] An intertidal cultivation environment involves establishing the farming infrastructure in shallow water closer to the shore, and consequently as the tides come in and out, the baskets holding the shellfish are submerged and exposed respectively. In a typical intertidal shallow environment, the baskets may be held / supported in a number of ways such as on racks and / or ropes or cables anchored from posts or piers driven into the sea bed.

[0013] Intertidal environments typically result in well-conditioned shellfish having hard shells and good shell shape due to the constant agitation and movement caused by changing tides and the drying / submersing cycle. However, it will be appreciated that a relatively limited number of suitable intertidal locations are available and further these tend to be more expensive. In addition, access to the baskets in an intertidal system can present issues depending on the tides.

[0014] In subtidal systems, the farms are located in deeper water and accordingly the more remote water may be significantly easier (or cheaper) to gain appropriate permission to use, lease or purchase etc. However, subtidal environments may result in poorer shell growth due to the constant submersion and may be more vulnerable to damage of the equipment in rougher conditions (especially during storms).

[0015] For subtidal systems, the baskets are typically attached to one or more long lines extending across the farm site and anchored to the sea bed via large weights such as concrete blocks, or other suitable means.

[0016] The baskets come in many forms, sizes and shapes and often include openable / closeable lids (sometimes at each end) in order to allow access to the inside of the baskets for loading with spat, inspecting or grading the shellfish, and / or harvesting the shellfish as required.

[0017] The baskets are attached to a long line(s) at one end, opposite ends or somewhere between. It will be appreciated that the attachment mechanism is preferably very robust, and capable of withstanding high loads expected to be experienced for example during storms, and loading and unloading of the baskets etc.

[0018] However, it is also preferable that the lid mechanism while similarly robust to withstand the high loads expected to be experienced during storms, loading and unloading, are also relatively easy and simple to operate during maintenance, and harvesting etc. It will be appreciated that a failure of the lid latching will typically mean that all the shellfish in that basket are likely to fall out and be lost.

[0019] In some systems, the baskets include floats to give the baskets buoyancy and to allow them to be supported at or near the surface of the water. These floats may operate to allow the baskets to be submerged and also exposed and be subject to natural wave action for agitation purposes. . The float systems may allow the baskets to be suspended below the waterline as described above, or be rotated (upside down) to allow the baskets to be substantially above the waterline for a time. This allows the baskets and shellfish to dry for a time, and extend their potential shelf life, and / or help control bio fouling that may have settled on the shellfish or cultivation basket / cage. The additional agitation may also be beneficial for the shellfish etc. A disadvantage of this system is that both the basket and the shellfish contained in the basket are either above the water at the same time or below the water at the same time. This means that at a duration that is desirable for the shellfish to be returned to being below the waterline, the basket may not have been exposed sufficiently long to remove / reduce bio-fouling.

[0020] For basket systems it is desirable for baskets to be turned in the water in a semiautomated way, for example, by use of a boat or barge that is able to run alongside the baskets (generally parallel with the main line(s)). Typically, the vessel includes a structure having a generally spiral internal path that receives baskets at a front end (e.g. while the baskets are in the water), and lifts them from the water, turns them over and places them back into the water as the vessel passes. This is preferably achieved without any need to detach the baskets from the main line (or lines).

[0021] Similarly, it is an advantage if the system can be automated, or semi-automated, rather than require only manual labour to retrieve the baskets, to lift them from the water and / or open / close the lids to access the basket interior, during harvesting or other maintenance etc. Accordingly, the same or similar boat or barge as described above can be used during loading, unloading and / or harvesting of the basket etc., thereby eliminating some manual labour.

[0022] An example of such a system is described in WO2024258298 of Malborough Oysters Limited.

[0023] In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0024] It is an object of the present invention to provide improved apparatus and methods of aquaculture farming, or at least provide the public with a useful choice. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0025] In a first aspect the present invention may be said to be float for use in a sub-tidal marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored at the floor of a body of water, said float comprising a container directly or indirectly attached to the main line, to float at the surface of the body of water, said container defining an enclosure to be able to retain a species to be cultivated and to extend both above and below the waterline, wherein the container can be rotated horizontally intermittently to selectively expose different regions of the container above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions whilst the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline to allow the retained species to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure below the waterline..

[0026] Preferably a chassis is provided to hold the container at the waterline of the body of the water attached to the main line..

[0027] In a second aspect the present invention may be said to be float for use in a sub- tidal marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored at the floor of a body of water, said float comprising

[0028] (i) a chassis to float at the waterline of the body of the water attached to the main line, and

[0029] (ii) a container supported by the chassis, said container defining an enclosure to be able to retain a species to be cultivated and to extend both above and below the waterline, wherein the container can be rotated horizontally intermittently to selectively expose different regions of the container above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions whilst the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline to allow the retained species to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure below the waterline..

[0030] Preferably container can assume a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation by being rotated horizontally..

[0031] Preferably container can assume a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation by being rotated horizontally intermittently so that different regions of the container can become exposed above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions whilst the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline to allow the retained species to settle towards the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline..

[0032] Preferably the enclosure comprises of a first zone to define the bottom region when the container is in the first rotational orientation and a second zone to define the bottom region when the container is in the second rotational orientation..

[0033] Preferably the partition is able to be operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held in the enclosure, preferably by the partition, above the waterline..

[0034] Preferably a partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held preferably by the partition above the waterline when the container is in at least one of (a) the first rotational orientation and (b) the second rotational orientation..

[0035] In a further aspect the present invention may broadly be said to be a float for use in marine aquaculture that utilizes at least one main line anchored at the floor of a body of water, said float comprising:

[0036] (i) a chassis to be held at the waterline of the body of the water attached to the main line, and

[0037] (ii) a container supported by the chassis, said container defining an enclosure to extend both above and below the waterline and to retain an aquaculture species to be cultivated, the enclosure comprising a first zone and a second zone, and

[0038] (iii) a partition, located or locatable in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone, wherein the container can be rotated horizontally intermittently to assume at least a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation to selectively expose different regions of the container above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions whilst the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline so that the retained species are able to move towards a bottom region of the enclosure to be held in the enclosure below the waterline, and wherein the first zone defines the bottom region when the container is in the first rotational orientation and the second zone defines the bottom region when the container is in the second rotational orientation, and wherein the partition is operative in the enclosure to selectively restrict the species from being able to move to the bottom region and from one of the first zone to the second zone to enable the species to also be held in the enclosure above the waterline.

[0039] Preferably the partition can control whether the retained species are able to move to settle towards the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline..

[0040] Preferably the partition is operative in the enclosure to selectively restrict the species from being able to move to the bottom region and between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to also be held in the enclosure by the partition intermittently above the waterline in the enclosure..

[0041] Preferably the marine aquaculture farm is a sub-tidal marine aquaculture farm..

[0042] Preferably the chassis is a ring shaped body to be floated horizontally at the waterline of the body of the water and defining an interior aperture..

[0043] Preferably the ring shaped body is buoyant..

[0044] Preferably the chassis is directly or indirectly attached to the main line.

[0045] Preferably the partition extends at least a substantial part across the enclosure..

[0046] Preferably the partition is operative by virtue of rotation of the container and / or being moveably mounted relative to the container..

[0047] Preferably the partition extends at least a substantial part across the enclosure and substantially horizontally when the container is in its first rotational orientation..

[0048] Preferably the partition extends at least a substantial part across the enclosure and substantially horizontally and above the waterline, when the container is in its first rotational orientation..

[0049] Preferably the partition is operative in the enclosure to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline and prevent them from being able to settle towards the bottom region intermittently.. Preferably the partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

[0050] Preferably the partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline when the container is in at least one of (a) the first rotational orientation and (b) the second rotational orientation.

[0051] Preferably the partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to selectively restrict the species from settling toward the bottom region and hold the species above the waterline when the container is in at least one of (a) the first rotational orientation and (b) the second rotational orientation.

[0052] Preferably the partition is adapted and configured to be able to hold the species on top of the partition above the waterline.

[0053] Preferably the partition is adapted and configured to be able to hold the species on top of the partition and above the waterline when the container is in at least one of (a) the first rotational orientation and (b) the second rotational orientation..

[0054] Preferably the partition is adapted and configured to be able to hold the species on top of the partition in the second zone and above the waterline when the container is in the first rotational orientation..

[0055] Preferably the partition is adapted and configured to be able to hold the species on top of the partition in the first zone and above the waterline when the container is in the second rotational orientation..

[0056] Preferably the partition can selectively restrict the species from settling toward the bottom region dependent on one or both of (a) the rotational orientation of the container and (b) movement of at least part of the partition in the enclosure relative the container.

[0057] Preferably a passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone, the passage is at least in part defined by or definable by the partition.

[0058] Preferably the passage is defined by or definable by the partition and at least one of the container and chassis..

[0059] Preferably the passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone, the passage is selectively closable by the partition to prevent movement of the species between the first zone and second zone.

[0060] Preferably the passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move between the first zone and second zone, the passage is selectively closable by the partition to prevent movement of the species between the first zone and second zone.

[0061] Preferably the passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move between the first zone and second zone, the passage is (a) selectively closable by the partition to prevent movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone and (b) selectively openable by the partition to allow movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone.

[0062] Preferably at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition allows the species to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone.

[0063] Preferably at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition causes the species, when supported on the partition above the waterline, to pass through the passage to allow the species to settled toward the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline.

[0064] Preferably at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition causes the species, when supported on the partition above the waterline, to fall off the partition through the passage from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone to allow the species to settled toward the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline. Preferably at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition causes the species, when supported on the partition in one of the first zone and the second zone and above the waterline, to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone to allow the species to settled toward the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline..

[0065] Preferably at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container so that when moved to open the passage, the partition causes the species, when supported on the partition above the waterline, slide off the partition reliant on gravity through the passage to settle toward the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline..

[0066] Preferably an open passage, defined at least in part by the partition, exists in said enclosure between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to be moved from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone by horizontal rotation of the partition..

[0067] Preferably the container does not need to be rotated to cause the species to pass through the passage..

[0068] Preferably movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone is controlled by the partition and by one of (a) horizontal rotation of the container and (b) movement of the partition between a condition where the passage is closed and the passage is open..

[0069] Preferably movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone is controlled by the partition and by horizontal rotation of the container..

[0070] Preferably movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone is controlled by a fixed partition and by horizontal rotation of the container only..

[0071] Preferably an open passage, defined at least in part by the partition, exists in said enclosure between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to be moved from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone by horizontal rotation of the container. Preferably (a) the partition is adapted and configured and (b) a passage in said enclosure exists or can be created between the first zone and second zone, so that when the container is rotated horizontally: i. species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline can be moved relative to the container to the other of the first zone and second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure in the other of said first zone and second zone, and ii. species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure above the waterline.

[0072] Preferably (a) the partition is adapted and configured and (b) a passage in said enclosure exists or can be created between the first zone and second zone, so that when the container is rotated horizontally: i. species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline can be moved relative to the container to the other of the first zone and second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure in the other of said first zone and second zone, and ii. species held by the partition upwards in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline can be caused to drop (eg slide) off the partition to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure.

[0073] Preferably an open passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone and the open passage and partition are adapted and configured so that when the container is rotated horizontally in: i. a first rotational direction, species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline are moved relative to the container to the other of the first zone and second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure in the other of said first zone and second zone, and iii. a second rotational direction, species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

[0074] Preferably an open passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone and the open passage and partition are adapted and configured so that when the container is rotated horizontally in: i. a first rotational direction, species retained in the bottom region of the enclosure in the first zone below the waterline and corresponding to the container being in the first rotational orientation, are moved relative to the container to the second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure and corresponding to the container being in the second rotational orientation, and ii. a second rotational direction, species retained in the bottom region of the enclosure in the first zone below the waterline and corresponding to the container being in the first rotational orientation are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline corresponding to the container being in the second rotational orientation.

[0075] Preferably when the species are held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline, the container can be rotated horizontally in the second rotational direction to cause the species to slide off the partition to then settle towards the bottom of the enclosure..

[0076] Preferably the passage is of a fixed shape to always be open and is at least in part defined by a partition that is fixed in said enclosure.

[0077] Preferably the container is supported by the chassis in a manner to be able to rotate relative to the chassis to allow the container to be rotated horizontally intermittently so that in use, irrespective of whether the container is in the first rotational orientation or the second rotational orientation, some part of the enclosure is below the waterline and some part of the enclosure is above the waterline.

[0078] Preferably the container is mounted for rotation relative to the chassis about a horizontal rotational axis by a horizontal axle about which the container can rotate.

[0079] Preferably the rotational axis extends through a part of the container so that in use, irrespective of whether the container is in the first rotational orientation or the second rotational orientation, some part of the enclosure is below the waterline and some part of the enclosure is above the waterline.

[0080] Preferably the chassis is able to assume a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation by being rotated horizontally intermittently so that different regions of the chassis become exposed above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions yet the enclosure is partly submerged below the waterline.

[0081] Preferably the chassis is able to be rotated horizontally independent of the container being able to be rotated horizontally so that the duration of exposure of different parts of the chassis above the waterline can be the same or different to the duration of exposure different parts of the container above the waterline.

[0082] Preferably the float is floated at the waterline of the body of water secured to two main lines that are horizontally spaced apart and at the waterline of the body of water in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to the control horizontal rotation of the chassis.

[0083] Preferably the float is floated at the waterline of the body of water secured to two main lines that are horizontally spaced apart and at the waterline of the body of water in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to control the horizontal rotation of the chassis by (a) keeping the chassis in a first rotational orientation for a duration of time and (b) moving the two main lines to be on opposite sides of each other thereby horizontally rotating the chassis to a second rotational orientation.

[0084] Preferably the container is supported by the chassis in a fixed manner so that when the container is horizontally rotated intermittently, the chassis will be horizontally rotated with the container, so that different regions of the chassis also become exposed above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions. Preferably the container is able to rotate horizontally by at least one of (a) the chassis being rotated horizontally as a result of the container being held in a fixed manner to the chassis and (b) only the container being rotated by virtue to the container being mounted to the chassis in a rotational manner..

[0085] Preferably the container can be rotated horizontally intermittently between a first rotational orientation to expose a first region of the container above the waterline and a second rotational orientation to expose a second region of the container above the waterline whilst the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline to allow the retained species to settle towards the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline, and wherein the enclosure comprises of a first zone to define the bottom region when the container is a second rotational orientation and a second zone able to define the bottom region when the container is a first rotational orientation and a partition is provided between the first zone and the second zone..

[0086] Preferably the first rotational orientation of the container is at least 120 degrees and preferably 180 degrees from the second rotational orientation of the container.. Preferably the first rotational orientation of the chassis 180 degrees from the second rotational orientation of the chassis..

[0087] Preferably the container from its first rotational orientation to its second rotational through at least 120 degrees and preferably through..

[0088] Preferably the chassis is rotated from its first rotational orientation to its second rotational orientation through 180 degrees..

[0089] Preferably the horizontal rotation of the container occurs when the float has been raised above the waterline..

[0090] Preferably the horizontal rotation of the container with the chassis occurs when the float has been raised above the waterline..

[0091] Preferably the horizontal rotation of the container relative the chassis occurs with the float in-situ at the waterline of the body of water..

[0092] Preferably at least one slosh damper is / are provided in said enclosure presentable at the bottom region of the enclosure to provided resistance to sloshing motion of the species in the bottom region.. Preferably the slosh dampers are provided in at least one of the first zone and the second zone..

[0093] Preferably the slosh damper(s) project into the enclosure to provide resistance to species movement in the enclosure at where the slosh damper(s) are provided..

[0094] Preferably the slosh dampers are at least one upstand projecting from the enclosure side of a container wall..

[0095] Preferably a plurality of upstands are provided..

[0096] Preferably the slosh dampers are part of the container wall.

[0097] Preferably the slosh dampers are defined by formations of the container wall.

[0098] Preferably the slosh dampers are attached to the container wall.

[0099] Preferably the slosh dampers are moveably or removeable attached to the container wall..

[0100] Preferably the upstands are provided in a manner to be removable from the float.

[0101] Preferably a first arrangement of slosh dampers are provided in the first zone and a second arrangement of slosh dampers are provided in the second zone.

[0102] Preferably the first arrangement of slosh dampers and the second arrangement of slosh dampers when operative, provide different degrees of damping to the species.

[0103] In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of cultivating a species in a sub-tidal marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored at the floor of a body of water, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a float comprising: a. a chassis configured to float at the waterline of the body of water and attached to the main line; b. a container supported by the chassis, the container defining an enclosure to retain a species to be cultivated in a manner that extends both above and below the waterline; and c. a partition positioned within the enclosure; ii. horizontally rotating the container intermittently between a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation, such that different regions of the container become exposed above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions while the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline yet allowing species retained in the enclosure to settle toward a bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline at a first zone of the enclosure as the bottom region when the container is in the first rotational orientation, and at a second zone of the enclosure as the bottom region when the container is in the second rotational orientation; iii. moving the partition by at least one of (a) horizontally rotating the container and (b) moving at least part of the partition relative to the container, to selectively restrict movement of the species between the first zone and the second zone, thereby enabling the species held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

[0104] Preferably the method further comprise defining an open passage between the first zone and the second zone, the passage being defined at least in part by a partition within the enclosure and rotating the container horizontally intermittently to move the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone through the open passage.

[0105] Preferably the elevation of the species relative to the waterline can be changed by presenting an open passage between the first zone and the second zone and rotating the container horizontally such that (i) when species are held above the waterline by the partition in the enclosure the species can be caused to slide off the partition and settle toward the bottom of the enclosure and (ii) when species are in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline the species are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

[0106] In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a marine aquaculture farming system comprising: i. at least one main line anchored to the floor of a body of water, and ii. a float as claimed in claim 1 held, at the waterline of the body of water, by said at least one main line. Preferably two main lines are provide that are horizontally spaced apart and at the waterline of the body of water in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to control horizontal rotation of the chassis.

[0107] Preferably there are two main lines that are horizontally spaced apart in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to control rotation of the chassis by (a) keeping the chassis in one rotational orientation for a duration of time and (b) moving the two main lines to be on opposite sides of each other thereby horizontally rotating the chassis.

[0108] In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a float for use in a marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored to the ground in a body of water, the float comprising: a chassis to be held at the waterline of the body of the water and, a container defining an enclosure to retain an aquaculture species and supported by said chassis such that with said chassis in a first horizontal rotational orientation, the container is configured to locate at least partially below the waterline, and said chassis comprising least one main line mounting formation providing an attachment point for a said at least one main line.

[0109] Preferably the chassis is to be floated horizontally at the waterline of the body of the water and defining an interior aperture, and wherein said ring shaped body is buoyant..

[0110] In yet a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a float for use in a sub-tidal marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored to the ground in a body of water, the float comprising: a ring shaped body to be floated horizontally at the waterline of the body of the water and defining an interior aperture, and wherein said ring shaped body is buoyant, a container defining an enclosure to retain an aquaculture species and supported by said ring shaped body such that with said ring shaped body in a first horizontal rotational orientation, the container is configured to locate at least partially below the waterline, and at least one main line mounting formation providing an attachment point for a said at least one main line.

[0111] Preferably the container is supported such that in said first horizontal rotational orientation, said container is located substantially below the waterline, and with said ring shaped body horizontally flipped so as to be in a second horizontal rotational orientation at the waterline, said container is located substantially above the waterline.

[0112] Preferably the container is supported by the ring shaped body such that (i) with the ring shaped body in the first horizontal rotational orientation, a first zone of the enclosure will be located below the waterline to one side of the ring shaped body and a second zone of the enclosure discrete from the first zone will be located above the waterline on an opposite side of the ring shaped body, and (ii) that with the ring shaped body in the second horizontal rotational orientation, at least part of (and preferably entirely) the first zone of the enclosure will be located above the waterline to one side of the ring shaped body and the second zone of the enclosure will be located below the waterline on an opposite side of the ring shaped body.

[0113] Preferably with the ring shaped body in the second horizontal rotational orientation, at least part of (and preferably entirely) the first zone of the enclosure will be located above the waterline to one side of the ring shaped body and the second zone of the enclosure will be located below the waterline on an opposite side of the ring shaped body and also partially above the waterline..

[0114] Preferably with the ring shaped body in the second horizontal rotational orientation, at least part of (and preferably entirely) the first zone of the enclosure will be located above the waterline to one side of the ring shaped body and the second zone of the enclosure will be located below the waterline on an opposite side of the ring shaped body and also partially above the waterline to an extent so as to elevate the entire first zone above the waterline..

[0115] According to a further aspect said two said containers are supported to said body such that in the first horizontal rotational orientation, a first of said container is to locate below the waterline and a second of containers is to locate above said waterline.

[0116] Preferably the chassis is said ring shaped body as herein described.

[0117] Preferably the chassis is a buoyant body.

[0118] Preferably the chassis is a buoyant body so that it is able to be self-float.

[0119] Preferably the chassis is a ring shaped body defining an interior aperture.

[0120] Preferably the chassis has a long axis and a short axis. According to a further aspect said chassis comprises a plurality of said main line mounting formations spaced around a perimeter of said chassis.

[0121] According to a further aspect said plurality of main line mounting formations comprises at least two main line mounting formations or at least four main line mounting formations or at least six main line mounting formations.

[0122] According to a further aspect said chassis comprises a peg aperture at each main line mounting formation, for receiving a peg.

[0123] According to a further aspect said main line mounting formation comprises a recess for receiving a main line, wherein said peg aperture is for receiving said peg and closing said recess around the main line.

[0124] According to a further aspect said chassis is hollow.

[0125] According to a further aspect said chassis is pressurised.

[0126] According to a further aspect said chassis is filled with a buoyant material.

[0127] According to a further aspect said chassis is of a polymer material.

[0128] According to a further aspect said chassis is formed by rotational moulding.

[0129] According to a further aspect said container is rotatably supported by said chassis.

[0130] According to a further aspect said container is rotatably supported by said chassis.

[0131] According to a further aspect said container is rotatably supported by said chassis preferably by at least one axle.

[0132] Preferably the interior aperture allows water from the body of water to well up and down through the ring shaped body.

[0133] According to a further aspect said container is perforated, to allow water to enter.

[0134] According to a further aspect said container is plastic baskets.

[0135] According to a further aspect said container comprises walls of: a. mesh material, b. plastic or wire filaments woven or non-woven, or c. moulded plastic mesh, such that water may pass easily through said containers.

[0136] According to a further aspect said container comprises of a closable lid to access an enclosure of said container. According to a further aspect said closable lid includes a latch for securely latching said lid against unwanted opening.

[0137] According to a further aspect said container is rigidly supported on said ring shaped body.

[0138] According to a further aspect a plurality of said containers are rigidly supported on said ring shaped body.

[0139] According to a further aspect when viewed in plan view, said container(s) do not substantially overlap an outer periphery of said ring shaped body.

[0140] According to a further aspect when viewed in plan view, said container(s) lie substantially within an outer periphery of said ring shaped body.

[0141] According to a further aspect when viewed in plan view, said container(s) lie substantially within said interior aperture.

[0142] According to a further aspect said container is a mesh bag that may be flexible is attached to an underside of said ring shaped body, and around a perimeter of said ring shaped body.

[0143] According to a further aspect said float further comprises float lid operable to close said interior aperture.

[0144] According to a further aspect said float lid further includes a latch for securely latching said float lid against unwanted opening.

[0145] According to a further aspect said float lid is perforated to allow water to pass through.

[0146] According to a further aspect said container is a stiff mesh cage attached to an underside of said ring shaped body, and around a perimeter of said ring shaped body.

[0147] According to a further aspect said containers comprise a closable lid at least at one end of said container to access an enclosure of said container.

[0148] According to a further aspect said closable lid includes a latch for securely latching said lid against unwanted opening.

[0149] According to a further aspect said container is rotatable relative said chassis such that said lid is able to be presented in a first condition, clear of said chassis.

[0150] According to a further aspect said container includes at least one container latch for securing said container in a second condition, fixed relative to said chassis. According to a further aspect when in said second condition, said closable lid cannot be opened due to abutting said chassis.

[0151] According to a further aspect there are two said containers arranged side by side.

[0152] According to a further aspect when viewed in plan view, said containers lie substantially within said interior aperture.

[0153] According to a further aspect said float further comprises legs for supporting said chassis on and above a floor.

[0154] According to a further aspect said legs are receivable in apertures in said ring shaped body.

[0155] According to a further aspect said legs are configured such that said containers are located above said floor when said float is supported on said legs.

[0156] According to a further aspect said float comprises one or more second containers, wherein said second containers are supported such that in said first rotational orientation of the chassis, said second containers are configured to locate substantially above the waterline, and in said second rotational orientation of the chassis, said second containers are configured to locate substantially below the waterline.

[0157] According to another aspect said one or more second containers are arranged to substantially mirror the one or more containers, on each side of the chassis.

[0158] According to another aspect said container extends to both sides of the chassis.

[0159] Preferably the container defines one enclosure that is located on both sides of the chassis.

[0160] According to another aspect said container comprises two container portions a first container portion secured to one side of the said chassis and a second container portion secured to the other side of the chassis and together and optionally with the chassis defining a closed said enclosure.

[0161] Preferably said enclosure extends through the chassis.

[0162] Preferably said enclosure is located on each side of the chassis.

[0163] According to another aspect said container is secured to the chassis in a manner so that the enclosure of the container is located on both sides of the chassis.

[0164] Preferably a partition is provided to define two zones in said enclosure. Preferably a first zone is located on a first side of the chassis and a second zone is located on opposed second side of the chassis.

[0165] Preferably said first zone is located entirely on said first side of said chassis.

[0166] Preferably the partition separates the two zones yet a passage between the two zones is provided or a passage can be established so that the aquaculture species can travel from one of two zones to the other of said two zones.

[0167] Preferably the partition is located to one side of the chassis in said enclosure.

[0168] Preferably the partition is a moveable partition to at least in part be able to move between a closed condition where the passage is closed and an open condition where the passage is open.

[0169] According to another aspect said one or more containers is / are an open end basket attached to one side of said ring shaped body, and at a perimeter of said ring shaped body, and said basket comprises a selectively movable partition, such that in a first closed condition said selectively movable partition separates the first zone from the second zone and in a second open condition said selectively movable partition opens a passage that extends between the first zone and the second zone.

[0170] According to another aspect said one or more containers are an open end basket attached to one side of said ring shaped body, and around a perimeter of said ring shaped body, and said basket comprises a selectively movable partition, such that in a first closed position said selectively movable partition closes off at least a portion of said basket located opposite said open end, and in a second open position said selectively movable partition opens a passage from said at least a portion of said basket located opposite said open end.

[0171] According to another aspect said passage extends through said ring shaped body.

[0172] According to another aspect one or more second containers are supported on said body such that in said first condition with said body right side up, the second container(s) is configured to locate above said waterline, and said one or more second containers are an open end second basket attached to an upper side of said ring shaped body, and around a perimeter of said ring shaped body.

[0173] According to another aspect said second basket comprises a selectively movable second partition, such that in a first closed position said selectively movable second partition closes off at least a portion of said second basket located opposite said open end, and in a second open position said selectively movable second partition opens a passage from said at least a portion of said second basket located opposite said open end.

[0174] According to another aspect each said basket includes one or more respective said selectively moveable partitions.

[0175] According to another aspect said at least one said selectively moveable partition comprises two or more hinged leaves in a bi-fold configuration.

[0176] According to another aspect one or more said baskets include one or more additional partitions dividing said portions and said selectively moveable partitions comprising two or more hinged leaves in a bi-fold configuration, operate to close said dividing portions.

[0177] According to another aspect said hinged leaves are operable by one more cords, attached between a said hinged leave and a part of a respective basket.

[0178] In another aspect, the present invention broadly comprises an aquaculture system comprising: a pair of spaced and parallel main lines a plurality of floats as described in the previous clauses, spaced and secured at opposed ends or sides to said respective main lines.

[0179] According to a further aspect the system is located in a subtidal environment.

[0180] In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a float comprising: a ring shaped body defining an interior aperture, and wherein said body is buoyant, one or more containers supported on said body such that in a first condition with said body right side up, the containers are configured to locate at least partially below a waterline, and at least one main line mounting formation, each main line mounting formation providing an attachment point for a respective main line.

[0181] Preferably said containers are supported such that in said first condition, said containers are configured to locate substantially below the waterline, and with said body inverted, said containers are configured to locate substantially above the waterline.

[0182] Preferably each of said containers is supported such that in the first condition, a first container end is configured to locate below the waterline and a second container end is configured to locate above a waterline, and with said body inverted, the first container end is configured to locate above the waterline and the second container end is configured to locate below the waterline.

[0183] Preferably the partition is a shelf that may be shaped to offer a degree of cradling to the shellfish to help cluster them on the shelf.

[0184] Preferably such cradling is provided for by a shelf that will encourage the cluster to be at, near or about a center of balance of the float. In this way the cluster does not influence or cause a significant and undesirable tipping motion to the float. Such may otherwise cause the shellfish to slide of the partition un-intendedly and / or cause the float to flip when not desired.

[0185] Preferably the partition comprises of a flat shelf..

[0186] Preferably the partition comprises of a flat shelf part and an abutting (a) lip or (b) additional shelf part that is at an angle to the first mentioned shelf part..

[0187] In another aspect, the present invention broadly comprises a mounting peg for mounting a structure to a main line, comprising: a head portion comprising an eye for receiving said main line, and an elongate body portion for being received in a correspondingly sized aperture of said structure, wherein said body portion comprises a pair of legs which are movable between an open position in which said main line is insertable through said legs into said eye, and a closed position in which said main line is retained in said head portion.

[0188] According to a further aspect said pair of legs are hinged.

[0189] According to a further aspect said mounting peg further comprises a retention feature for retaining said mounting peg in said aperture.

[0190] According to a further aspect said eye comprises an annular rib.

[0191] According to a further aspect said mounting peg further comprises a shoulder between said head portion and said legs.

[0192] In another aspect, the present invention broadly comprises an assembly comprising: the float as described in the previous clauses, and the mounting peg as described in the previous clauses received in a peg aperture of said main line mounting formation of said float, wherein the peg aperture retains said legs in said closed position.

[0193] According to a further aspect said peg aperture and said mounting peg each have a substantially square cross-section.

[0194] In another aspect, the present invention broadly comprises a float comprising: a ring shaped body defining an interior aperture, and wherein said body is buoyant, one or more containers supported on said body, wherein said containers are supported such that in a first condition with said body right side up, said containers are configured to locate substantially below a waterline, and with said body inverted, said containers are configured to locate substantially above a waterline.

[0195] Preferably the chassis may be at least partially integrally formed with the container..

[0196] In yet a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a float for shellfish aquaculture to control growth and conditioning of a cluster of shellfish and control biofouling of the float, said float comprising of

[0197] (i) a container supported extending both above and below the waterline, said container defining an enclosure to be able to retain the cluster of shellfish above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions and below the waterline, wherein the container is supported to be intermittently rotated horizontally so that the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:

[0198] (a) different regions of the container, and

[0199] (b) the cluster of shellfish that are otherwise below the waterline, can be independently controlled.

[0200] Preferably the container is supported by a chassis that is attached to a main line that is anchored to the floor of a body of water..

[0201] Preferably the container is supported to be intermittently rotated horizontally so that the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:

[0202] (a) different regions of the container, and

[0203] (b) the chassis, and (c) the cluster of shellfish that are otherwise below the waterline, can be independently controlled.

[0204] Preferably exposure different regions of the container above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions can occur to retain at least parts of the enclose submerged below the waterline to allow the retained species to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure below the waterline

[0205] In yet a further aspect the present invention may be said to be a method of controlling the growth and conditioning of a cluster of shellfish and managing biofouling in an inter-tidal marine aquaculture environment, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a float comprising: i. a container defining an enclosure extending both above and below the waterline to be able to retain the cluster of shellfish above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions and below the waterline; b) intermittently rotating the container horizontally to independently control the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:

[0206] (i) different regions of the container, and

[0207] (ii) the cluster of shellfish.

[0208] Preferably the float also comprises a chassis configured to float at the waterline of a body of water to which the container is attached preferably in a manner horizontally rotational relative to the chassis..

[0209] Preferably the method comprises intermittently rotating horizontally at least one of (i) the container and (ii) the chassis to be able to independently control the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:

[0210] (a) different regions of the container, and

[0211] (b) different regions of the chassis, and

[0212] (c) the cluster of shellfish.

[0213] Preferably the intermittent horizontal rotating may occur at least once before harvest of the species / shellfish.. Preferably when different regions of the container and / or chassis are exposed, it may not be at the exclusion of other regions also still being at least exposed above the waterline.. Such other regions may predominantly be below the waterline but parts of the other regions may be above the waterline..

[0214] Preferably the partition operative by being located between the first and second zone. Preferably the partition is engaged to at least one of the chassis and the container in a manner to be operative passively and dependent on the container's rotational orientation and / or actively by being at least partially moveable relative the container..

[0215] Preferably the partition is able to selectively restrict and preferably prevent the species from being able to move to the bottom region when the species is held in the enclosure above the waterline by the partition..

[0216] In a further aspect the present invention may be said to be, for a container containing a plurality of shellfish being cultivated, a method of independently controlling bio-foul of the container and cultivation of said shellfish, said method comprising:

[0217] (a) floating a porous container, that defines an enclosure comprising a first zone separated by a partition from a second zone and at least one passage (whether selectively closable or always open) between the first zone and second zone, at the surface of a body of water with the container in a first rotational orientation where a part of the container including the second zone is above the waterline and at least a part of the container including the first zone, is below the waterline,

[0218] (b) horizontally rotating the container to a second rotational orientation, where a part of the container including the first zone is above the waterline and at least a part of the container including the second zone is below the waterline, to cause shellfish located at the bottom of the first zone and below the waterline to be moved upwardly by the partition to elevate the shellfish, supported on / by the partition up and above the waterline,

[0219] (c) causing the selfish to move, through the passage, from being supported on / by the partition above the waterline for a first duration to below the waterline, to return the shellfish below the waterline and into the second zone whilst keeping or returning the container to its second rotational orientation so that parts of the container at the first zone remain above the waterline for a second duration that is longer than the first duration.

[0220] Preferably the causing the selfish to move through the passage from being supported on / by the partition above the waterline to below the waterline is by at least one of (a) causing the closed opening to opening or (b) rotating the container to cause the shellfish to slide off the partition and into the water..

[0221] Preferably the container is floated at the surface by at least one main line that is anchored to the floor of the body of water, the container secured to the main line(s) in manner to allow the container to be rotated between the first rotational orientation and the second rotational orientation..

[0222] Preferably the container is floated at the surface by a chassis and at least one main line that is anchored to the floor of the body of water, wherein the chassis can horizontally rotate with the container..

[0223] Preferably the container is floated at the surface by a chassis and at least one main line that is anchored to the floor of the body of water, wherein the chassis can horizontally rotate, between a first rotational placement at the surface of the body of water and a second rotational placement at the surface of the body of water, both with the container and independently of the container, the method comprising the steps of,

[0224] (i) rotating the container from its first rotational orientation to its second rotational orientation,

[0225] (ii) keeping the container in its second rotational orientation for the second duration whilst the chassis remains in its first rotational placement for a third duration that is different to the second duration. Preferably the third duration is longer than the second duration..

[0226] The term "comprising" as used in this specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting each statement in this specification and claims that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0227] The term "substantially" as used in this specification and claims means "for the most part" or "wholly".

[0228] The term "ring" or "ring shaped" body as used in this specification and claims means a body that surrounds and / or encloses about an interior aperture, opening or space, whether circular, square, rectangular or other regular or irregular shape.

[0229] The term "array" as used in this specification and claims means "a series of elements arranged generally in a pattern". The term is intended to include regular arrays, in which elements are arranged in aligned rows or columns, and irregular arrays, in which elements may be arranged in staggered patterns.

[0230] The term "container" as used in this specification and claims is intended to include any structure configured for holding and / or supporting aquaculture species. The container on its own or together with other components can create a complete enclosure for such holding and / or supporting. The "container" in some configurations described herein may include but is not limited to baskets, boxes, bags, trays, bins, frames, panels, pens, etc.

[0231] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0232] The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only. In particular, the following examples describe variations and options that may be equally applicable to other embodiments, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0233] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0234] Figure 1 is a top view of the aquaculture system, showing some floats attached to a pair of main lines.

[0235] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown without a container or baskets.

[0236] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with a single container in a closed position.

[0237] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with a single container in an open position.

[0238] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with a double / pair of container in a closed position.

[0239] Figure 6 is a top view of the float of Figure 5, shown with the double / pair of container in a closed position.

[0240] Figure 7a is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a single container mounted on top using U bolt frames and aligned with the chassis, and shown in a container out of water position.

[0241] Figure 7b is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a single container mounted on top using U bolt frames and aligned across the chassis, and shown in a container-out-of-water position.

[0242] Figure 8a is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a double or pair of containers (only one shown) mounted on top and aligned across the chassis, and shown in a container out of water position.

[0243] Figure 8b is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a double or pair of container mounted on top and aligned with the chassis, and shown in a container in the water position.

[0244] Figure 8c is a perspective view of the float of Figure 8b, shown upside down in a container out of water position. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a two stacked double or pair of container (only two shown) mounted on top and aligned across the chassis, and shown in a container out of water position.

[0245] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with two stacked double or pair of container mounted on top and aligned with the chassis, and shown in a basket in the water position.

[0246] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a flexible mesh container fixed to and mounted below the chassis, and shown in a container in the water position.

[0247] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the preferred float of Figure 11, shown rotated upside down with the flexible mesh in a container in the out of water position.

[0248] Figure 13 is a perspective view of another preferred float supporting a mesh container.

[0249] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a preferred mounting peg.

[0250] Figure 15 is a partial side view of a float showing the peg and mount.

[0251] Figure 16 is a schematic top view of the aquaculture system, shown in progressive stages of container rotated, from a container below the water (on left), to containers above water (on the right).

[0252] Figure 17a is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with two mounting pegs and without a container.

[0253] Figure 17b is a perspective view of the preferred float of Figure 17a, shown upside down.

[0254] Figure 18a is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with four mounting pegs attached to two main lines arranged parallel to a short axis of the float.

[0255] Figure 18b is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with four mounting pegs attached to two main lines arranged parallel to a long axis of the float.

[0256] Figure 19 is a perspective view of two of the preferred floats of Figure 17a each attached to a main line at one end and arranged on alternate sides of the main line, the main line being parallel to short axes of the floats.

[0257] Figure 20 is a perspective view of two preferred floats each attached to a main line on one side and arranged on alternate sides of the main line, the main line being parallel to long axes of the floats. Figure 21 is a perspective view of a preferred float attached to one main line aligned with a central long axis of the float.

[0258] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a preferred float attached to one main line aligned with a central short axis of the float.

[0259] Figure 23 is a perspective view of a preferred float in an alternative mounting arrangement. Figure 24 is a perspective view of a preferred float in an alternative mounting arrangement. Figure 25 is a perspective view of a preferred float in an alternative mounting arrangement including two buoyancy elements, the chassis being filled with water as a ballast to create a negatively buoyant support structure.

[0260] Figure 26 is a perspective view of a preferred float in an alternative mounting arrangement including two buoyancy elements, the chassis being filled with water as a ballast to create a negatively buoyant support structure.

[0261] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with four mounting pegs attached to two main lines arranged parallel to a long axis of the float.

[0262] Figure 28 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown with four mounting pegs attached to two main lines arranged parallel to a short axis of the float.

[0263] Figure 29a is a perspective view of a preferred float shown with two vertical containers. Figure 29b is a perspective view of the preferred float of Figure 29 shown upside down. Figure 30 is a perspective view of a preferred float shown with a first group of containers mounted on top of the float and a second group of containers mounted below the float. Figure 31 is a perspective view of a preferred float shown with ancillary float elements. Figure 32 is a perspective view of the preferred float of Figure 31 shown upside down.

[0264] Figure 33 is a perspective view of a preferred float showing a preferred mounting peg and a main line.

[0265] Figure 34a is a perspective view of the preferred mounting peg of Figure 33 in a closed position.

[0266] Figure 34b is a perspective view of the preferred mounting peg of Figure 33 in an open position.

[0267] Figure 35 is a perspective view of a preferred float including legs.

[0268] Figure 36 is a perspective view of a preferred float, shown in an alternative configuration with a plurality of trays mounted below the chassis. Figure 37 is a side view of the float of Figure 36.

[0269] Figure 38 is a perspective view of a preferred float and alternative container configuration.

[0270] Figure 39A is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 38.

[0271] Figure 39B is a perspective view of the configuration of Figure 38 in a second rotational orientation.

[0272] Figure 39C is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 39B.

[0273] Figure 39D is a front cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 39B.

[0274] Figure 39E is a perspective view of the moveable partition of the configuration of Figure 38 and 39A-D.

[0275] Figure 39F is another perspective view of the moveable partition of Figure 39E.

[0276] Figure 39G is a front view of the moveable partition of Figure 39E and F.

[0277] Figure 40A is a schematic view of a preferred float and alternative container basket configuration in a first rotational orientation.

[0278] Figure 40B is a schematic view of the configuration of Figure 40A in a second rotational orientation after a counterclockwise rotation.

[0279] Figure 40C is a schematic view of the configuration of Figure 40A in a second rotational orientation after a clockwise rotation.

[0280] Figure 41 is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 40B.

[0281] Figure 42 is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 40B.

[0282] Figure 43 is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 40A.

[0283] Figure 44 is a perspective view of three preferred floats of the configuration of Figures

[0284] 40A-43 attached to one main line aligned with a central short axis of the floats.

[0285] Figure 45A is a schematic view of a preferred float and alternative container basket configuration in a first rotational orientation.

[0286] Figure 45B is a schematic view of the configuration of Figure 45A in a second rotational orientation after a clockwise rotation of the container.

[0287] Figure 45C is a schematic view of the configuration of Figure 45A in a second rotational orientation after a clockwise rotation of the container and the chassis.

[0288] Figure 46A-F are a series of schematic views of the configuration of Figure 45A with an alternative partition after various clockwise and counterclockwise rotations.

[0289] Figure 47A is a perspective view of the configuration of Figure 45A. Figure 47B is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 45A.

[0290] Figure 47C is a perspective cut-away view of the configuration of Figure 45A.

[0291] Figure 48A is a schematic view of a series of main line floats and a chassis of a preferred float connected to a pair of parallel main lines.

[0292] Figure 48B is a schematic view of a series of main line floats and preferred floats connected to a pair of parallel main lines in an alternating arrangement.

[0293] Figure 49A is a schematic view of a connection arrangement between a main line float, a chassis of a preferred float and a pair of parallel main lines.

[0294] Figure 49B is a side view of the connection arrangement of Figure 49A showing the chassis supporting a container and connected to a main line.

[0295] Figure 49C is a side schematic view of a series of main line floats and preferred floats connected to a main line in an alternating arrangement.

[0296] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0297] An example of an aquaculture farming system 1 is generally illustrated in schematic figure 1 and 16 .

[0298] Two main lines 2 are provided as generally known in the art. The main lines 2 extend generally parallel to each other. They are presented for securing an array of floats 3 at spaced intervals along the main lines 2 at the surface of a body of water. A typical main line may extend 100-200 meters or more and present floats 3 at 100 - 200 spaced apart locations. In some examples, a float may be attached to only one main line. In such an example only one main line may be present.

[0299] The float is preferably suitable for exposed-water aquaculture and this is typically sub-tidal. However, the float may also be used in inshore aquaculture farming.

[0300] In a first example the float 3 comprises of a chassis 300 and container 34 is attached to and supported by the chassis 300. The chassis 300 may be secured to the main lines 2. The container 34 is provided to retain a plurality of shellfish during their cultivation phase. The container is porous to allow water from the body of water to pass through into it and through it. The chassis is provided to secure the container with the main lines 2. The chassis may be buoyant or not buoyant. In a preferred from the chassis 300 is a ring shaped body 7. The ring shaped body 7 is preferably buoyant.

[0301] In other examples described in more detail well below, each float 3 may be attached to and supported by the main lines without self-provision of sufficient buoyancy. Main line floats 3000 may be separately secured to the main lines 2 to provide appropriate buoyancy to parts of the aquaculture system 1. The chassis 300 may hence not be sufficiently buoyant to have sufficient buoyancy on its own to help maintain the float 3 at the waterline 25 of a body of water. The term "float" as used herein may hence be used in the context of the float being sufficient self-buoyant or be used with associated means to provide buoyancy to the system to help maintain the float at the waterline 25 of the body of water.

[0302] The container 34, on its own or together with the chassis 300 or other component, defines an enclosure 100 in which the species is retained. There may be only one container 34 supported by each chassis 300 with one enclosure. Or there may be two or containers 34 supported by each chassis each with its own independent enclosure such as seen in figure 30 or in figures 29a and b.

[0303] The chassis 300 is provided to hold the at least one container 34 of the float 3 at a desired or a plurality of desired heights relative to the waterline. This is facilitated by the provision of sufficient upward buoyant forces acting on the at least one container, such forces preferably provided primarily by a buoyant ring shaped body 7 to which the container 34 is attached. It will be appreciated that other means such as main line floats 3000 and / or also adjacent ring shaped bodies 7 in the array of floats may also contribute to such upward buoyant forces.

[0304] The ring-shaped chassis may natural float at the surface of the body of water because of its shape, volume distribution and center of mass in a horizontal condition. This condition is such that the interior aperture is open facing both vertically up and vertically down. A notional axis through the ring extents vertically so that the chassis generally lies parallel to the horizontal. With the aperture open to both both above and below the chassis, water can well up and down through the aperture.

[0305] A plurality of shellfish or other species to be cultivated, can be retained in the enclosure 100 during their cultivation. The species may be for example shellfish such as oysters. There may be a plurality of individual items of the same species (eg several oysters) retained in the container and these are encouraged to remain in a cluster in the container so that all items of the species are at any given time in the same zone of the container. For example they are all in the first zone or the second zone and either exposed or submerged.

[0306] The enclosure 100 may be defined by one container part and / or or by two or more container parts and / or the chassis 300. As seen in figure 38 there is a first container part, in the form of an first container portion 34a at the top, which may be a basket shape, that is secured to the chassis 300 (in the form of a ring shaped body 7) and a second container part, in the form of a second container portion 34b below, which may a basket shape, that is secured to the chassis 300 to together define an enclosure 100.

[0307] The main lines 2 may be directly or indirectly anchored, at each end, to the bottom of the body of water by known suitable method. For example, the most preferred method of anchoring is typically by embedded screw anchors, or where not possible, concrete blocks or other steel weighted anchors may be preferred.

[0308] While the present system is primarily intended for use in a double main line system, it will also be appreciated that additional main lines may be accommodated for various reasons such as to improved storm tolerance, or to allow additional float capacity per pair of fixed anchors etc.

[0309] The main lines 2 may be of any suitable type for example rope, or cable and may be of a specialised polymer / polymer blend material such as our own Duradan PPE or Durashield PPE. The main lines 2 will typically have a diameter suitable for the intended farming location and expected sea conditions. However given the present system is particularly suitable for open water environments, a typical diameter may be anywhere between approximately 20 mm and 50 mm. The shellfish cultivation industry typically uses double main lines of 24mm, 28mm, 32mm, 36mm or 40mm diameters, depending on the site.

[0310] It is preferred that each float 3 is removably attached to respective main lines 2, in order that the float 3 may be serviced and / or replaced in the event of damage, or any other reason. To this end, it is preferred that the chassis 300 includes suitable mounting portions 4, and pegs 5, for receiving and securing the main lines 2 to the float. Such securing preferably occurs at each opposed end of the float to a respective main line 2. Preferably the floats are secured in a removable manner so that they can be removed from one and / or both of the main lines 2 when desired. Alternatively, the main lines may be threaded through an aperture through the chassis 300, which would make independent individual removal of each float 3 from a main line 2, impossible. More detailed descriptions of preferred mounting options are described below. The main lines 2 can secure to the floats to help prevent the floats from un-intentionally flipping over.

[0311] With reference to figure 2, a chassis 300 according to one preferred configuration is illustrated. Chassis 300 preferably is ring shaped. It comprises of or is a ring shaped body 7, defining an interior aperture 8 that is sufficiently large to allow upwelling of water therethrough and into at least one container 34 located adjacent and / or through the interior aperture 8. The ring shaped body 7 allows upwelling of seawater through the interior aperture 8, while also providing hydrodynamic stability to the float 3. In plan view the ring shape is preferably rectangular having a major axis RR and a minor axis perpendicular thereto. The interior aperture is similarly shaped. The ring shaped body (or chassis) generally lies in a place PP (see figure 37) that in the normal mode of use with the body floating at the surface of a body of water is parallel the waterline of the body of water. The ring shaped body has an upper side or first side S1 and a lower side or second side S2 opposite the first side S1. Depending on the rotational orientation of the ring shaped body normally floating at the surface of the body of water either the first side S1 faces upwards or second side S2 faces upwards. The ring shaped body can be flipped by horizontal rotation so as to alternate which side faced upwards. Such flipping is to rotate the ring shaped body preferably through 180 degrees. The horizontal rotation may be achieved by chassis rotation about a notional axis that is parallel the main lines 2. Eg chassis rotation may occur about an axis parallel to the main lines by lifting one main line from one side of the other main line, over the other main line and to the other side of the other main line.

[0312] The chassis 300 is preferably moulded from a suitable and robust polymer material, to form an enclosed hollow interior to give the float 3 buoyancy. Although it is envisaged that the chassis 300 may be constructed from multiple parts that are subsequently bonded and / or otherwise attached to each other, the most preferred form is a single piece ring shaped body 7 that is hollow. For example, due to the intended size of the float 3, as being necessarily large enough to accommodate at least one (and preferably more) containers 34 in the form of typical aquaculture baskets, it is anticipated that a most preferred method of forming the ring shaped body 7, is that of rotational moulding. The techniques of rotational moulding and any required subsequent sealing against water ingress (via a plug or bung), are well enough established in the art. Further, it may be advantageous to pressurise the ring shaped body 7 in order to improve buoyancy by slightly increasing its volume, stiffness and / or strength and / stability of the float 3.

[0313] With reference to figures 3 & 4, a single float 3 according to a preferred configuration having a single container 34 is illustrated. As shown in figure 3, container 34 is illustrated in an "container in water" position. For example, it will be appreciated that the upward buoyant force provided by the system at the float 3 (such as primarily provided by the buoyant ring shaped body 7) will support the container 34 in a substantially horizontal submerged (or near completely submerged) position with respect to the waterline, when the container 34 is a down position as seen in figure 3. It this position the container 34 may be latched in position to the chassis 300. The container preferably extends generally horizontally when in the water.

[0314] At or towards a first end region 80 of the ring shaped body 7 (when viewed in plan view), an axle 10 is arranged to pivotally the container 34 with respect to the ring shaped body 7. In the illustrated example, axle 10 is provided at an end of the container 34 and preferably at a location above an upper region of the container 34. The axle may be fixed with respect to the ring shaped body 7 or may be rotatable. An axle sleeve 16 is preferably provided on the container 34, to allow rotation about axle 10. However, it will be appreciated that the precise location of the axle 10, and associated axle sleeve 16 with respect to ring shaped body 7 and / or with respect to the container 34 may be varied in order to affect the selective positioning of the container 34 with respect to the waterline when in use. A live hinge may be used instead of an axle.

[0315] At or towards the other end 81, opposite the first mentioned end 80, of the ring shaped body 7, a releasable securing mechanism 11 is provided in order to latch the container 34 to the chassis 300. Such latching is to hold container 34 to the ring shaped body 7 in the closed condition and in a down position (eg submerged).

[0316] It is preferred that the releasable securing mechanism 11 is both robust enough to secure the container 34 in a fixed position with respect to the ring shaped body 7 even in rough sea conditions, but is also relatively easy to un-latch when access to container 34 is desired. Further, the securing mechanism 11 is preferably configured to prevent the container 34 from rotating past a relative position such as past a horizontal position. Alternatively, one or more stops (not shown) may be provided by the container and / or the ring shaped body 7 and / or container for example that prevent further unwanted rotation by abutting a portion of the container 34. In one preferred configuration illustrated in figure 3, securing mechanism 11 comprises latching bolts 21 mounted on container 34, and adapted to engage with eyelets 22 mounted on ring shaped body 7. In order to secure the container 34 in the 'container in water' position, the container 34 may be rotated downwardly about axle 10, and the latching bolts 21 are engaged with corresponding eyelets 22.

[0317] In order to assist with latching, it may be preferred that the latching bolts 21 are biased into the latching position, so that as soon as the container 34 moves to its 'container in water' position (as shown in figure 3), the securing mechanism 11 activates to lock container 34 to the ring shaped body 7. For example, a spring mechanism, or alternatively a magnetic mechanism, may be employed for this purpose. So-called 'auto latching' securing mechanisms are generally known and may be found on residential swing gates for example. A window stay and / or over centre toggle mechanism may also be employed.

[0318] With reference to figure 4, the float 3 can be seen with the container 34 in an open position. In this open position, the container 34 is rotated about axle 10 with respect to the chassis, such that an opposite end (having a lid 12) is lifted upwards with respect to the ring shaped body 7 and presents the end of container 34 opposite the axle 10, for easy access. The enclosure 100 is in this way able to be exposed. In this example, can be seen that the container 34 is rotated approximately 45° from is closed 'container in water' horizontal position. In some configurations, it may be preferable to limit the maximum rotation to be around 30 degrees from horizontal, or around 60 degrees from horizontal, or around 90 degrees from horizontal. Alternatively still, the container 34 may be able to rotate until the container 34 hits the ring shaped body 7 (at a region indicated by line 14), which may be greater than 90 degrees from horizontal.

[0319] In this upward more open position of the container 34, the lid may still be in a closed condition but the lid 12 can be manually opened and access to the enclosure 100 at the interior of the container 34 can be gained as required, for loading, harvesting and / or inspection etc. The open position, being rotated from the closed position may also be more advantageous for improved access to the enclosure 100 for loading and / or unloading. In some configurations, a latch 13 may be provided in order to hold lid 12 closed, on the open end of container 34.

[0320] During use, access from the top of the container 34 may be useful, for example, when loading. This may be achieved when the entire float is lifted from the water to a position in which the container 34 is facing at least slightly upwards, or vertically upwards. Alternatively, the same access to the container 34 may become bottom access, if the float is lifted up from the opposite side. This may be useful when the container is intended for unloading, for example, while onboard a boat. The container is then orientated with the container tilted down towards its opening so that content can the slide out.

[0321] In alternative configurations, it will be appreciated that it may be desirable for the securing mechanism 11 to further interact or otherwise be operative with the lid 12, such that when the container 34 is in its downward (closed) position as illustrated in figure 3, the lid 12 is further prevented from opening. That is, the securing mechanism 11 and / or the chassis 300 further prevent inadvertent or unwanted opening of lid 12. This feature may provide additional security to the harvest, particularly in rough sea environments where it is not uncommon for traditional containers lids to fail.

[0322] It is anticipated that these double latching configurations will provide additional security against unintentional container opening even in rough seas, while also providing unimpeded easy access to the lid 12 and latching mechanism 13, when the container is presented for access as illustrated in figure 4.

[0323] In some preferred configurations, it may be desirable to bias the containers 34 into the open or loading / harvesting orientation. For example, where it is desired to automate various parts of lifting the floats 3 out of the water, and presenting them 'on deck' for ready access etc., it may be desired to have the containers 34 unlatch from the ring shaped body 7, and pivot about axle 10 into the loading / harvesting orientation as illustrated in figure 4. In order to achieve this, the container 34 may be spring loaded (via coil spring, or bungy cord etc.) from the ring shaped body 7.

[0324] Further automation may be desired by configuring the system that pulls the floats 3 from the water to also unlatch the securing mechanism 11, so that the containers can subsequently self-pivot from horizontal and present their openings in an open condition as the floats 3 are moved on deck. In other configurations, the unlatching of the securing mechanism 11, may be manually operated by a deck hand when desired, and the bias may then cause the containers to move to a position as illustrated in figure 4.

[0325] The aquaculture farming system herein described is in some instances intended for use with a potential wide variety of container designs. In some instances the containers 34 may be known as "baskets". Typically, these baskets are rigid, or semi-rigid and constructed from a moulded plastic material. They comprise mesh walls to allow water in and include a lid (usually mesh also) and a latching mechanism at one or both ends to hold the lids closed in use. For example, there are a number aquaculture baskets available on the market which could be used with the present farming system e.g. manufactured by Seapa, Hexcyl, Tool Tech and many more.

[0326] In order to accommodate a particular basket design, it is envisaged that changes or re-configurations of the chassis 300 can be made. It is anticipated that it may be an advantage to provide the present aquaculture system with chassis 300 for use with specific basket types that are already commercially available.

[0327] Alternatively, proprietary baskets as illustrated, (or otherwise) may be utilised.

[0328] An example of one preferred engagement between main lines 2 and a float 3 is more clearly illustrated in figure 5. Mounting portions 4 may be moulded into the chassis 300, at each of the first end region 80 and second end region 81 so that the float 3 can be attached to a respective main line 2 at each end region 80 / 81. Mounting portions 4 in this example are approximately 'C' shaped recesses, with an opening facing away from the ring shaped body 7 itself. The dimensions of the mounting portions 4 are sufficient to receive a desired diameter of appropriate main line 2, for example up to approximately 50 mm or so. In order to secure float 3 to a main line 2, main line 2 can be inserted into the 'C' shaped mounting portions 4, and a peg 5 (refer to fig 14, peg not shown in fig 5) is secured into aperture 6, securely such that it will not release under expected loads during use. The peg 6 when securely driven through aperture 6, effectively encloses the 'C' shaped mounting portions 4, thereby capturing the main line 2 (tightly so that the float(s) are not able to move along the main line 2, thereby preserving the spacing of floats 3 in the array of floats). As illustrated in figure 14 a peg 5 may include a wedge shaped elongate body and optionally a series of compression support nodules 23 arranged along the peg's elongate body that interact with the ropes as peg 5 is driven through aperture 6, to resist dislodgement of the peg 5, once secured. It will be appreciated that peg 5 can be removed when desired, by levering the peg 5 back out of aperture 6 with a levering tool for example.

[0329] As shown in figure 15, a rope aperture 23 is formed between the C-shaped mounting portions 4, and the peg 5, when the peg 5 is driven into the float 3. As noted previously, preferably the rope aperture 23 is appropriately dimensioned to accommodate a given rope diameter such that the float 3 is secured to the rope, and relative motion between the rope and float 3 is prevented. The main lines 2 and chassis of the floats are connected to prevent a chassis from rotating about an axis that is perpendicular to the main lines 2. Yet chassis rotation may occur about an axis parallel to the main lines by lifting one main line from one side of the other main line, over the other main line and to the other side of the other main line.

[0330] It is also noted that the alternative float 3 illustrated in figure 5 includes more than one mounting portion 4. In the illustrated case, there are two mounting portions 4 at each end of the float 3, although it should be appreciated that even more may be included, if desired. In one preferred use, the multiple mounting portions 4 may be used so that the relative height of the main line 2 mounting point, with respect to the float 3, may be varied as desired. That is, and in simple terms, the rope may be mounted at an upper position, or a lower position, as provided by the float 3 illustrated in figure 5. Alternatively, the mounting portions 4 may each have a different dimension suitable for securing to a different diameter main line 2, and in this way a float 3 may be suitable for different deployment configurations. Selecting different positions will have an effect of the position or positions that the container 34 will assume relative to the waterline.

[0331] In further alternative configurations, it is anticipated that some other suitable mounting mechanism may be employed to connect a float 3 to appropriate anchor, or main line, or double main line etc.

[0332] With reference to figure 5 and 6, further variations of the previously described container 34 configuration are shown. As noted above, it is intended that the present aquaculture farming system may be designed to accommodate already known and commercially available containers 34. Accordingly, it may be desirable for each ring shaped body 7 to accommodate more than one container 34 with respect to its interior aperture 8. The number and / or configuration of containers 34 may be limited only by the overall available mounting real-estate of the chassis 300 and the available upward buoyant force of the system.

[0333] In the configuration of figures 5 and 6, a pair of containers 34 are provided with respect to the interior aperture 8 of ring shaped body 7. The interior aperture 8 of ring shaped body 7 allows the containers to be supported stably by the ring shaped body 7, while also allowing upwelling of seawater through interior aperture 8. Near first end region 80 of the ring shaped body 7, axle 10 is similarly provided to allow each containers 34 to pivot or rotate (via axle sleeve 16, formed or mounted on each container 34). In this illustrated configuration, an alternative mechanism for preventing the containers 34 from rotating past horizontal (with respect to the ring shaped body 7), one or more cables 15 are connected to each container at or near one end, and to the container at the other. The length of each cable is preferably such that the closed (down) container position is substantially horizonal. Accordingly, it is also preferred that the length of each cable is adjustable. Alternatively still (or in addition to), one or more mechanical stops may be provided on the ring shaped body 7 as described earlier, in order to prevent over rotation.

[0334] As described earlier, it is preferred that a securing mechanism 11 is provided at the other end of each container 34 to the axle supported end, in order to hold each container 34 in the horizontal position during normal use. In the illustrated case, similar a securing mechanism 11 in the form of latches are provided for each container 34.

[0335] As previously described, it will be appreciated that the ring shaped body 7, may entirely surrounds the container(s) 34 (when viewed in plan view), in conjunction with the securing mechanism 11, may provide additional security against unwanted opening of the lid(s) of the container(s) 34, typically located at one or both ends of each container 34. That is, it is not possible to open the lid at the end(s) of the container 34, without moving the container out of the horizontal position.

[0336] The chassis helps to provide for robust handling of the float 3 by providing for stiffness, ease of manoeuvring in the water via automated (or semi-automated, or manual) systems for loading, harvesting and / or inspection. The container(s) 34 themselves may not offer such without their being supported by a chassis that is connected to the main lines 2.

[0337] A chassis in the form of a ring shaped body 7 provides an interior aperture 8 of a ring shape that allows for up welling of sea water through the attached containers 34. Where the ring shaped body 7 is buoyant, additional advantages are provided such as providing stable floatation approximately surrounding the container(s) 34 (in plan view).

[0338] In one configuration of the float 3, at least one container 34 is fixedly secured to the chassis 300. In another configuration at least one container is moveably secured to the chassis 300, preferably in a rotational manner.

[0339] Preferably the container(s) 34 are arranged such that when viewed in plan view, the container(s) 34 are within the periphery of the 8, substantially as illustrated in the accompanying figures. However, it will be appreciated that parts of the container(s) 34 may in some configurations overlap at least part of the periphery of the 8 and / or at least part of the periphery of the ring shaped body 7.

[0340] With reference to figure 7a, one preferred configuration is illustrated. In this configuration, a ring shaped body 7 is provided substantially as previously described. The ring shaped body 7 of float 3 provides buoyancy and stability, while the interior aperture 8 allows upwelling of seawater through the float 3 and associated containers 34.

[0341] However, in this configuration a single container 34 is rigidly mounted to the top surface of the ring shaped body 7, such that a longitudinal axis LL of the container 34 is aligned parallel with a longitudinal axis of the ring shaped body 7 (eg perpendicular to the lines). As previously described, container 34 may include a lid 12 at one (or both) ends of the container 34, and an associated latch 13. This mounting option may be considered simpler, and may have associated advantages, while at the same time providing good access to the interior of the container 34 via one or both of its ends.

[0342] In order to facilitate the rigid (fixed) mounting, a series of mounting apertures 17 are provided spaced around the perimeter of the chassis 300. Suitable fasteners such as threaded rods (preferably stainless steel), or large 'U bolts' 20 extending around the container 34, may be inserted through and / or into the chassis 300. Alternatively, locking barbs projecting from the container 34, may insert into the mounting apertures 17, to facilitate a robust connection (via mounting apertures 17). With reference to figure 7b, a further alternative configuration is illustrated. In this configuration, the container 34 is mounted to the chassis 300 such that a longitudinal axis LL of the container 34 is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis RR of the chassis 300 (eg parallel to the lines),

[0343] With reference to figure 8a, a further alternative configuration (similar to figure 7b) is illustrated which shows pair of containers 34 mounted such that the longitudinal axes of containers 34 are perpendicular with a longitudinal axis of the chassis 300. In this figure, one of the containers has been omitted from the figure, in order to better illustrate the 'U-bolts' 20 used to fasten the containers 34 to the chassis 300.

[0344] Threaded 'U-bolts' 20 are provided passing through the apertures 17 of the chassis 300 at suitable dimensions to suit the intended container configuration. Threaded nut type mounts (not shown), seated on the opposite side of the ring shaped body 7, secure the 'U- bolts' 20 into the ring shaped body 7.

[0345] With reference to figure 8b, a further alternative configuration (similar to figure 7a) is illustrated. In this configuration, a pair of containers 34 is mounted such that the longitudinal axes of containers 34 are a lig ned / para I lei with a longitudinal axis RR of the ring shaped body 7. As such the axis RR of the ring shaped body 7 and the containers in this configuration are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the main lines 2.

[0346] With reference to figure 8c, the underside of the ring shaped body 7 from figure 8b is shown. In this view, the mounting portions 4, and pegs 5 are visible. However, it is to be appreciated that the ring shaped body 7 does not necessarily have a fixed preferred orientation. For example, ring shaped body 7 may be rotated upside down, on either orientation which can be used as the preferred orientation, for mounting and / or holding containers. The ring shaped body 7 can hence be flipped horizontally through 180 degrees for use.

[0347] The selection of the rotational orientation can occur at the time each ring shaped body 7 is secured to the main lines 2. It may also occur after, where the entire array of floats is flipped through 180 degrees as shown in fig 16.

[0348] With reference to figure 9, a further alternative configuration (similar to figure 8a) is illustrated. In this configuration, a pair of containers 34 are stacked upon each other, and another pair may be positioned side by side (in this view, one pair is omitted to better view the mounting 'U-bolts' 20, used to secure the containers 34 to the float 3). In this configuration, the containers 34 are mounted such that the longitudinal axes of containers 34 are perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the ring shaped body 7. As noted previously, the mounting side may be either side of the ring shaped body 7, as determined by user preference.

[0349] With reference to figure 10, a further alternative configuration (similar to figure 8c) is illustrated. In this configuration, a pair of containers 34 are stacked upon another pair of containers 34 and all are mounted such that the longitudinal axes of containers 34 are a ligned / para llel with a longitudinal axis of the ring shaped body 7.

[0350] Based on the example alternative variations illustrated in figures 7 to 10, it will be appreciated that other configurations are readily achievable, for example containers may be arranged in arrays (width x stack depth) mounted to one side of a suitably sized ring shaped body 7, such as:

[0351] • 1 x 2 array of containers,

[0352] • 1 x 3 array of containers,

[0353] • 2 x 1 array of containers

[0354] • 2 x 2 array of containers

[0355] • 2 x 3 array of containers,

[0356] • 3 x 1 array of containers,

[0357] • 3 x 2 array of containers,

[0358] • 3 x 3 array of containers,

[0359] • 2 x 3 array of containers,

[0360] • etc.

[0361] With reference to figure 11 & 12, a further alternative variation is illustrated. In this configuration, the container 34 is a flexible mesh bag 18. Such flexible bags for aquaculture cultivation are generally known.

[0362] As illustrated in figure 11, the mesh bag 18 is fixed to the chassis 300. Where the chassis is in the form of a ring shaped body 7, the mesh bag 18 may be secured to around the perimeter of the ring shaped body 7 to surround the 8. When placed in the water in this orientation, the float supports the weight of the mesh bag 18 underneath (and contents). Preferably, a lid 19 is provided to close the mesh bag 18 and may preferably have a securing mechanism 11. For example, the latching mechanism may be the same or similar to those described earlier in relation to figures 3 & 4, or figures 5 & 6.

[0363] Alternatively, an open top cultivation may be preferred in some circumstances and a lid may not be provided or may be separately provided as and when desired.

[0364] Rotation of the ring shaped body 7 and / or the containers so as to flip their orientation allow for shellfish in a container to be moved from being below the waterline to being above. When above the shellfish and at least part of the container are exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions.

[0365] An important part of the present aquaculture system and its floats 3, is that the system or parts of it, is capable of being rotated in the water. It is known that periodic exposure of certain shellfish to ambient atmospheric conditions and UV from the sun has known benefits during shellfish culturing, including assisting in the removal of unwanted marine / water bio fouling. Likewise rotating the containers so that all or at least parts of the container are exposed above the waterline can beneficial to remove bio-fouling from the container that may otherwise restrict nutrients and water flow.

[0366] Rotating the containers 34 allows such to occur by raising shellfish in a container above the waterline. The containers may also be rotated to assist with manual intervention techniques to remove bio fouling from the container and / or shellfish such as pressure washing.

[0367] The rotating / flipping of a float during shellfish cultivation allows shellfish contained in a container 34 with an enclosure located to one side only of the ring shaped body 7 to move between being submerged in water and being elevated above the waterline to allow the shellfish to be exposed to atmospheric ambient conditions. This can allow for the shellfish to dry for a duration. Such drying may reduce bio fouling on the shellfish. For example exposure to air and ultraviolet (UV) light can reduce biofouling on mussel shells. Air exposure may stress fouling organisms, especially when combined with desiccation and sunlight. This can reduce their ability to attach or survive on mussel shells.

[0368] Exposure above the waterline of some species may also be desirable prior to harvesting. Intermittent air exposure before harvesting may condition for example some mussel species to better withstand post-harvest stress, potentially helping them keep their shells closed longer.

[0369] Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the container 34, may be readily turned upside down in the water (while still supported on the main lines 2), such that the shellfish within a container 34 are supported above the waterline and therefore able to dry (for at least a time). After a desired duration, the container can then selectively be turned again to return the shellfish with a container to below the waterline, of be raised from the water onto a vessel for the removal of shellfish from that container at the time of harvesting.

[0370] This system lends itself to automation of an on-the-water process of float rotation, at least in semi-automated way, for example by use of a vessel such a barge that is able to run alongside the main line(s). The vessel may include a structure having a generally spiral internal path that receives the floats sequentially at a front end of the vessel and lifts the floats from the water, turns them over and places them back into the water as the vessel passes. Alternatively, this turning process can be achieved manually, for example by using a boat hook etc., to grab a float or container and to turn it. It will be appreciated that the same or similar automated (or semi-automated) system may be used for loading, harvesting and / or inspecting the containers / floats when required.

[0371] As illustrated in figure 12, the float 3 can be rotated from a position shown in figure 11 as desired in order to allow the shellfish (or other species) within the mesh bag 18 to sit ontop of the lid. This may be in a manner to be substantially above the waterline to provide the shellfish with some time to dry (for at least a time). When placed in this orientation, the mesh bag 18 is supported above the waterline.

[0372] A further alternative configuration is illustrated in figure 13. In this configuration, a container 34 in the form of a rigid basket 24 is supported by the ring shaped body 7.

[0373] As illustrated in figure 13, the container 34 in the form of a rigid basket 24 is fixed to a side of the ring shaped body 7 at its perimeter. When placed in the water in this orientation, the float supports the weight of the rigid basket 24 and its content underneath. Preferably a lid 19, is provided to close the rigid basket 24 and may preferably have a latching mechanism. For example, the latching mechanism may be the same or similar to those described earlier in relation to figure 11, or any other suitable mechanism. With reference to figure 16, the aquaculture system is illustrated located at the waterline 25, and anchored to the seabed 26, via anchor lines 2b. The anchor lines may be a extension of the parallel main lines 2a or separate lines. Various stages of turning the floats in the water are illustrated, from left to right. In particular, starting from the container 34 on the left side of figure 16, it can be seen that the containers are supported substantially below the waterline 25. As the stages of rotation progress from left to right, the containers are gradually turned over, until they are supported above the waterline 25 (as shown by container 34b on the right).

[0374] As described earlier, the system lends itself particularly to automated turning (eg using a vessel) of floats and / or containers but such may instead or also be turned manually by hooks, or sleds etc.

[0375] Once the shellfish contained in a container 34 have been elevated above the waterline for a sufficient or desired duration, the turning process can be repeated to turn the containers again to move the shellfish to be back into the water below the waterline, as desired.

[0376] Although not illustrated, it is envisaged that deployments having more than two main lines 2 are also possible. For example, a three line deployment may be utilised with floats supported between a central line, and first and second outer lines respectively (either side of the central line). This creates two 'lanes' of containers either side of the central main line. It will be appreciated that the floats in this type of configuration may be staggered, or aligned with floats from the other lane.

[0377] It is useful to be able to secure a float to one or more main lines in a variety of configurations based on the desired deployment of the float. To this end, a float as described herein may comprise a plurality of main line mounting formations for providing attachment points for a main line, as illustrated in Figures 17a to 33. Various combinations of some or all of the plurality of mounting formations may be used for main line attachment in a particular system, providing flexibility in use.

[0378] Figures 17a and 17b illustrate a single float 27 according to preferred configuration. Similar to float 3 described above, float 27 comprises a chassis preferably in the form of a ring shaped body 28, for receiving one or more containers, e.g. baskets and defining an interior aperture 29 that is sufficiently large. The ring shaped body 28 allows upwelling of seawater through the aperture 29, while also providing stability to the float 27 and any attached containers. The ring shaped body 28 may be formed using similar manufacturing techniques to float 3 and may receive one or more containers in a similar manner.

[0379] Float 27 comprises eight mounting apertures 31 each providing an attachment point for a main line 2. Each mounting aperture 31 extends through the ring shaped body 28. The apertures 31 may spaced around a perimeter of the body 28, with three mounting apertures 31 at each of the first end region 80 and second end region 81 and one mounting aperture 31 at a central position on each side. Although eight mounting apertures 31 are shown, it will be appreciated that more or fewer mounting apertures 31 may be provided. There may for example instead be two presented at each of the first end region 80 and second end region 81. By the provision of two spaced apart mounting apertures at each of the first end region 80 and second end region 81 of the chassis, the main lines 2 can each be attached at a respective first end region 80 and second end region 81 at two spaced apart locations. This can help provide better stability and a stronger connection of the main lines 2 to the chassis. Particularly when compared a configuration where there is only a single point attachment at each of the first end region 80 and second end region 81 of the chassis shown in figure 5 for example.

[0380] The mounting apertures 31 are preferably the same size and shape to provide a degree of modularity that is described below.

[0381] The mounting apertures 31 are configured for receiving a corresponding mounting peg 32. The peg 32 will be described in more detail later. In the Figure 17a / 17b arrangement, two pegs 32 are provided in two mounting apertures 31 at one end of the ring shaped body 28, and the other six mounting apertures 31 may not receive a peg.

[0382] As shown in Figure 18a, in use, each peg 32 receives a main line 2 and is driven through a mounting aperture 31 to attach the float 27 to the main line 2. In this arrangement of the float 27, four mounting apertures 31 (two at each end of the body) receive a peg 32, and two main lines 2 extend parallel to a short axis of the float 27 between the two pegs 32 at each end. Providing two main lines 2 advantageously holds the float 27 or a series of floats 27 more securely and in formation compared to a single main line 2.

[0383] By providing the plurality of mounting apertures 31 and a plurality of pegs 32, the float 27 can be attached to one or more main lines 2 in various ways. Some example arrangements are shown in Figures 18a to 28 as described below. Not every mounting aperture 31 may be in use (i.e., receive a peg 32 and attach to a main line 2) in each arrangement of the float 27. The number and location of the mounting apertures 31 which are in use in a particular system can be selected as desired. This provides flexibility, allowing an operator to choose appropriate mounting apertures 31 for main line attachment depending on how the float(s) are to be secured to the main line 2. The mountin apertures 31 which do not receive a peg may remain empty, or could be used for alternative mounting purposes such as to attach a leg (as shown later with reference to Figure 35) or to secure containers to the ring shaped body28.

[0384] Advantageously, the pegs 32 can be inserted into the mounting apertures 31 in different orientations to allow the main lines 2 to extend in different directions. For instance, Figure 18b shows another alternative arrangement similar to Figure 18a except that the main lines 2 extend parallel to a long axis RR of the float 27 along both sides of the float 27. It can be seen that the pegs 32 in the Figure 18b arrangement are inserted in the mounting apertures 31 in a different orientation (rotated 90 degrees) compared to the pegs 32 in the Figure 18a arrangement.

[0385] The corresponding shapes of the mounting apertures 31 and the pegs 32 may determine the number of available peg orientations. For example, a square aperture may permit two peg orientations, a hexagonal aperture may permit three peg orientations, a circular aperture may permit any peg orientation, etc. In the examples of Figures 17a to 35, the mounting apertures 31 have a substantially square cross-section and receive pegs 32 having a substantially square cross-section. Thus, in the depicted examples the main lines 2 can extend in two directions (parallel to the float long axis or parallel to the float short axis) depending on the peg orientation.

[0386] As described previously with reference to Figure 1, an aquaculture farming system may comprise a plurality of floats secured to one or more main lines. Each float 27 may comprise of multiple mounting apertures 31 allows for the plurality of floats 27 to be arranged in various ways, some examples of which are described below.

[0387] Figure 19 shows an aquaculture system 33 in which two floats 27 each receive a single main line 2 at one end only (eg the first end region 80a or second end 80b) of their respective chassis 300, such that the main line 2 extends parallel to the shorter axis of each float 27 and along an end of the chassis 300. The floats 27 are arranged on alternate sides of the main line 2 and spaced apart from each other. The alternating arrangement provides more free water space and water flow, stability and ease of access to the floats 27 for harvesting, inspection, re-filling, etc.

[0388] Figure 20 shows a similar aquaculture system in which two floats 27 each comprise two pegs 32 receiving the main line 2 and the two floats 27 are arranged on alternate sides of the main line 2 spaced apart from each other. In this arrangement, the two pegs 32 of each float 27 are located on the same side of the respective chassis 300, with one peg 32 at each end, such that the single main line 2 extends parallel to the long axis of each float 27 along the side of the chassis 300.

[0389] Figure 21 shows an alternative arrangement of the float 27 in which two mounting apertures 31, one at each end of the chassis 300 along a central long axis, each receive a peg 32, and a main line 2 extends between the pegs 32 parallel to and coaxial with the central long axis. Multiple such floats 27 may be arranged along the main line 2 in a similar manner.

[0390] Figure 22 shows an alternative arrangement of the float 27 in which two mounting apertures 31, one on each side of the chassis 300 along a central short axis, each receive a peg 32, and the main line 2 extends between the pegs 32 parallel to and coaxial with the central short axis that is perpendicular to the long axis RR.

[0391] Figure 23 shows an alternative arrangement of a chassis 300 having four pegs 32 received in four mounting apertures 31, similarly to Figure 18b. In this arrangement, two bridle ropes 2a extend parallel to a long axis RR of the float 27 along both sides of the float 27. Additionally, a main line 2 is provided which extends perpendicular to the parallel bridle ropes 260, between the float 27 and the parallel bridle ropes 2, extending along the central short axis of the float 27.

[0392] Figure 24 shows an alternative arrangement of the float 27 similar to Figure 23, with four pegs 32 received in four mounting apertures 31 spaced around the perimeter for the chassis 300. In this arrangement, two bridle ropes 260 extend parallel to a short axis of the float 27 at both ends of the chassis 300. Additionally, a main line 2 is provided which extends perpendicular to the parallel bridle ropes 260, between the float 27 and the parallel bridle ropes 260, along the central long axis of the float 27. The float 27 could also be deployed in a subsea configuration, as shown in Figures 25 and 26. In this arrangement, the ring shaped body 28 is not sufficiently buoyant and may be filled with sea water or other fluid to form a ballast, i.e. so that the float 27 is negatively buoyant. The ring shaped body 28 can support containers (not shown) mounted thereto. Although the ring shaped body 28 is negatively buoyant in this example, it may also be able to float (if the ballast is removed) or be caused to float at the waterline by virtue of adjacent means providing buoyancy.

[0393] The ring shaped body 28 is mounted to a main line 2 via a pair of bridle ropes 2a, similarly to the Figure 24 arrangement. Buoyancy elements 30 (e.g. buoys) are spaced along the main line 2 to which the float 27 is mounted to suspend the subsea structure from and below the waterline. An optional hauling rope 261 is provided to assist the subsea structure to be recovered and hauled to the surface.

[0394] In the Figure 25 arrangement, the containers (not shown) could be mounted above the main line 2 (i.e. on top of the ring shaped body 28), supported by 'U'-shaped wires 49 as described previously. In the Figure 26 arrangement, the containers could be mounted below the main line 2 (i.e. below the ring shaped body 28), similarly supported by 'U'-shaped wires 49. In the arrangements of figures 26 and 26 the floats 27 may not be periodically rotated to expose different parts sequentially to ambient atmospheric conditions, but rather remain submerged constantly, with the containers securely supported subsea by the chassis 300 which is help suspended from and below the waterline by alternatively provided buoyancy.

[0395] Figure 27 shows an alternative arrangement of the float 27 with four pegs 32 received in four mounting apertures 31, two at each end of the ring shaped body 28. A first main line 2 extends between two pegs 32 at either end along the central long axis, and a second main line 2 extends between two pegs 32 at either end along a side of the float 27, parallel to the first main line 2.

[0396] Figure 28 shows an alternative arrangement with four pegs 32 received in four mounting apertures 31, including two pegs 32 at one end of the ring shaped body 28 and two pegs 32 at a middle position on either side of the ring shaped body 28 along the central short axis. A first main line 2 extends between the two pegs 32 along the central short axis, and a second main line 2 extends between the two pegs 32 at the end of the float, parallel to the first main line 2.

[0397] Although attaching a main line 2 at each end or side of the ring shaped body 28 (e.g. as in Figure 18a or 18b) provides good support and formation alignment, it may impede rotation of the float 27 around a central axis. Easier rotation about the central axis may be aided by providing a single main line 2 along a central (long or short) axis (as in Figures 21 and 22), or providing one main line 2 at one end or side of the ring shaped body 28 and a second main line 2 along the central (long or short) axis (e.g. as in Figures 27 and 28).

[0398] As described previously, the aquaculture system provides for the container(s) to be capable of being rotated in the water. This allows for the container(s) to be moved between a submerged condition and an condition exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions to allow the containers and preferably also their contents (e.g. shellfish) to desiccate for a time and preferably from time to time. In some instances, it may be desirable for the container or parts of the container to be periodically exposed while the container contents remain submerged. It may also be desirable for the chassis to be rotated in the water so that at least some and preferably all of its parts can be sequentially exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions.

[0399] To this end a container 34 with an enclosure having a first zone Z1 discrete from a second zone Z2 may be provided wherein shellfish can settle into one of the first and second zones dependent on the rotational orientation of the container 34 and can move between the first zone Z1 and second zone Z2 during the process of the container being rotated.

[0400] The container 34 may be rigidly attached to the chassis 300 as seen in figure 29a and 29b. In these figures two separate containers 34 are so attached.

[0401] The container 34 is attached to the chassis 300 so that depending on the rotational orientation the container 34, at least part of its enclosure 100 is always above the waterline and at least part of its enclosure 100 is below the waterline.

[0402] In figure 29a, a first end 36 of a container 34 corresponding to the first zone Z1 of the enclosure 100 is shown to be above the waterline and a second end 35 of a container 34 corresponding to the second zone Z2 of the enclosure 100 is shown to be below the waterline. A first end 36 of the container 34 is located to one side of the chassis 300 the second end 35 of the container 34 is located on the other side of the chassis 300. For example the container 34 and its enclosure pass through the 8 of the ring shaped body 28.

[0403] In figure 29b, the float 27 is shown having been flipped horizontally from its position shown in figure 29a by being rotated through 180 degrees so that a first end 36 of a container 34 corresponding to the first zone Z1 of the enclosure 100 is shown to be below the waterline and a second end 35 of a container 34 corresponding to the second zone Z2 of the enclosure 100 is shown to be above the waterline.

[0404] When rotated between the two positions shown in figures 29a and 29b the content of the container in the enclosure will, by way of gravity and being naturally negative buoyant, sink to the bottom of the container 34. As such if the first end 36 is located below the second end 35 then the content in the enclosure will drop to the first end 36.

[0405] With the container configured in this manner, a part of the container 34 is always submerged to keep the container contents below the waterline and a part is always above the waterline and exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions.

[0406] In another example shown in figures 38-40 there is shown a container 34 that has a first end 54a and a second end 54b. In this configuration the container 34 comprises of two container parts being a first container portion 34a (which may be in the form or a basket) and a second container portion 34b (which may be in the form of a basket) that are each secured to the chassis 300 so as to define a single enclosure 100. It will hence be appreciated that two or more container portions, such as a first container portion 34a and a second container portion 34b, may together define the enclosure and / or with the chassis 300 also.

[0407] The chassis 300 such as in the form of the buoyant ring shaped body 28 can support at least one and for example two the containers 34 at the waterline and in a condition in which a second end 35 is submerged with respect to the waterline and a first end 36 is positioned above the waterline. The species such as shellfish within the container 34 will naturally settle to the bottom of the container 34, such that the species is completely or substantially submerged, whilst the end of the container 34 opposite the end that is at the bottom, will be exposed to the air and UV light. When desired, the float 27 can be flipped (e.g. using techniques previously described) so that the previously submerged parts of the containers 34 are now above the waterline, and the previously exposed ends are now submerged below the waterline. Figure 29b shows an inverted condition of the float 27 of Figure 29a. Due to gravity, the species within the container 34 will fall down and settle at the lower end of the container 34. This allows the species to remain in the water which may improve their health, while providing an opportunity for fouling of the containers to be cleaned.

[0408] Compared to for example the confirmation of float 3 shown in figure 7a where a container is located only to one side of the chassis, a float with a container that has an enclosure on both sides of the chassis is advantageous when the time needed to clean the fouling from the container is longer than the time the species in the container should be kept out of the water. For example, a periodic rotation may occur once a month.

[0409] Rotation of the float also allows different parts of the chassis to be periodically exposed above the waterline.

[0410] Buoyancy of the float 27 may be distributed so that the float, a) in a first rotational orientation, is held so that a first region of the float is above the waterline and the remainder region (being the full region of the float less the first region) of the float is below the waterline, and b) in a second rotational orientation, the float is held so that a remainder region of the float is held above the waterline.

[0411] In this way all of the float can become exposed to air. In this example in both rotational orientations being 180 degrees to each other, the float has a common waterline.

[0412] Achieving a common waterline may not always be possible as achieving this may depend on the weight of the shellfish in the container. As such buoyancy of the float 27 may be distributed so that the float, a) in a first rotational orientation, is held so that a first region of the float is above the waterline and the remainder region (being the full region of the float less the first region) of the float is below the waterline, and b) in a second rotational orientation, the float is held so that a remainder region of the float is held above the waterline and also part of the first region is held above the waterline.

[0413] This may be achieved by appropriate buoyancy distribution of the ring shaped body 28. It may also be achieved by the provision so ancillary floatation to for example one of both the first end 36 and second end 35 of the container 34.

[0414] The containers 34 may take any suitable shape and form which allows one part of the container 34 to remain in the water and one part of the container 34 to be out of the water.

[0415] In the example depicted in Figures 29a and 29b, the containers 34 are elongate, with a length approximately 2.5 times the width. The ring shaped body 28 supports the elongate containers 34 in a substantially vertical orientation. The vertical elongate container 34 has increased capacity compared to a shorter container, while the ring shaped body 28 provides sufficient support to hold the container 34 stable in both the upright and upside down conditions.

[0416] The float 27 supporting the elongate containers 34 can be combined with one or more mounting formations as described previously. Mounting pegs and main lines are not shown but may be similar to the Figure 18a or 18b mounting configuration, for example.

[0417] Figures 29a and 29b illustrate a peg and rod mechanism for supporting the elongate containers within the interior aperture 8 of the ring shaped body 28. The peg and rod mechanism advantageously makes use of the same mounting pegs 32 and apertures 31 as for main line mounting in other configurations. Four pegs 32 are provided within four mounting apertures 31. Two of the pegs 32 are located at opposing ends of ring shaped body 28 along the central long axis, and a rod 52 extends therebetween, parallel to and coaxial with the central long axis. The other two pegs 32 are located at opposing sides of the ring shaped body 28 along the central short axis, and a second rod 52 extends therebetween, parallel to and coaxial with the central short axis.

[0418] Two of the pegs 32 are inserted from a first (top) side of the ring shaped body 28 and the other two pegs 32 are inserted from a second (bottom) side of the ring shaped body 28. It will be appreciated that the terms 'top' and 'bottom' are convenient labels only, since in practice the float 27 may flip so that the top side is vertically below the bottom side and vice versa. Inserting the pegs 32 from opposing sides means that when the float is rotated, there are at least two pegs 32 preventing the containers from falling out of the ring shaped body 28 no matter which side is up or down.

[0419] Figure 30 shows another configuration of the float 27, supporting a container 34 on both sides of the ring shaped body 28. In this example, a first group of containers 34a is supported above the ring shaped body 28, and a second group of containers 34b is supported below the ring shaped body 28. The containers 34a and 34b may be mounted using techniques described previously.

[0420] Providing containers both above and below the ring shaped body 28 provides various benefits. In one example, all containers may be filled with aquaculture farming contents (e.g. shellfish), and the float 27 could be rotated periodically to allow the top and bottom containers to alternate exposure and submersion, allowing the containers and their contents to periodically dry.

[0421] In another example, only the second (lower) containers 34b could be filled. When it is desired to expose those second containers 34b for cleaning, the float 27 can be rotated such that the first containers 34a are now submerged and the second containers 34b are now exposed, and the contents of the second containers 34b can be moved to the now- submerged first containers 34a. In this way, the container contents remain submerged always, keeping the contents wet, whilst the container structures themselves are able to be exposed for longer periods of time for cleaning.

[0422] The concept of providing containers on both the upper and lower sides of the chassis 300 could be extended to many types of container, such as baskets, trays, soft nets, panels, etc. The containers on the upper and lower sides could be the same type of container, e.g. as illustrated in Figure 30, or could be different types, e.g. baskets on one side and a mesh panel on the other side. In a specific example, to the lower side of the chassis 300 could be a container containing oysters, to the upper side of the chassis 300 could be a container for growing seaweed. When the oysters are removed for harvesting from its respective container, the float 27 is then rotated to expose the oyster container for UV exposure, cleaning etc. Meanwhile, the seaweed container is then submerged to grow seaweed while the oyster container is being cleaned.

[0423] Many combinations of containers could be used. However, where there are discrete containers on each side of the chassis, it is useful for the weight distribution and buoyancy distribution on each side of the chassis 300 to be similar such that the float 27 has sufficient stability in both the upright and upside-down orientations. A top heavy float may be more prone to titling over and potentially fully flipping over. A container with an enclosure extending both sided of the chassis, as in Figure 30, provides the most stability because the container content can sink to the bottom of the enclosure and effectively act as a keel.

[0424] In some cases additional buoyancy may be desired. This may be desired for purposes as described above to achieve different waterlines for the float in different rotational orientations. This may also be desirably to assist floats that are located in particularly rough water conditions or for heavier containers.

[0425] The float 27 may comprise one or more ancillary float elements 37 for increasing buoyancy, as for example illustrated in Figure 31. The ancillary float elements 37 are preferably removably attachable to the float 27 so that they can be added and removed as needed depending on deployment conditions.

[0426] Any suitable attachment means can be used to securely fasten the ancillary float elements 37 to the chassis 300. In the illustrated example, two ancillary float elements 37 are provided, one at each end of the float 27. The ancillary float elements 37 may include apertures (not visible) which align with the mounting apertures 31 on the chassis 300. As such, the pegs 32 for securing the main line 2 also secure the ancillary float elements 37.

[0427] Figure 32 shows the underside of the chassis 300 of Figure 31, wherein the pegs 32 can be seen protruding from the mounting apertures 31 of the chassis 300 and the apertures 38 of the ancillary float elements 37.

[0428] The mounting peg 32 described with reference to Figures 17a to 32 and its use are shown more clearly in Figures 33, 34a and 34b. The peg 32 comprises a head portion 39 for receiving a main line 2, and a body portion 41 for being received in said mounting aperture 31. The head portion 39 comprises an eye 40 through which the main line 2 passes in use. The eye 40 is appropriately dimensioned to accommodate a given main line diameter such that the float 27 is secured to the main line 2. The eye 40 comprises an annular rib 42 for gripping the main line 2 by increasing friction between the eye 40 and the main line 2. Accordingly, relative motion between the main line 2 and float 27 is reduced or prevented, securing the float 27 at the intended location on the main line 2 and keeping the desired spacing of floats along the main line 2. In alternative configurations, it may be desired for a float to be able to slide along the main line 2. In such instances, the eye 40 may not comprise an annular rib 42, and / or may be sized such that an internal diameter of the eye 40 is larger than the diameter of the main line 2.

[0429] The body portion 41 comprises a pair of legs 43 which are hinged at the head portion 39. The legs 43 are movable via the hinge 44 between an open position in which said main line 2 is insertable through the legs 43 into the head portion 39 (Figure 34b), and a closed position in which the main line 2 is retained in the head portion 39 (Figure 34a).

[0430] The peg further comprises a shoulder portion 51 between the head portion 39 and the legs 43. The shoulder portion 51 protrudes outwardly such that when the peg 32 is inserted into a mounting aperture 31 in the body 28, the shoulder portion 51 abuts the chassis 300 and prevents further insertion.

[0431] To attach the float 27 to a main line 2, the peg 32 (in the open position of Figure 34b) is placed over the main line 2 such that the main line 2 passes through the legs 43 into the head portion 39 (the opening of the legs 43 being facilitated by the hinge 44). The legs 43 are then closed (in the closed position of Figure 34a), and the peg 32 is driven into a mounting aperture 31 of the ring shaped body 28 such that the legs 43 extend through the aperture and the head portion 39 abuts the ring shaped body 28.

[0432] Each peg 32 is preferably retained in the corresponding mounting aperture 31 so that the main line 2 is securely attached and the peg 32 does not fall out of the mounting aperture 31, particularly under the loads experienced in rough water. For example, the peg 32 and / or the mounting aperture 31 may comprise a latch feature for retaining the peg in the aperture. In the peg 32 shown in figure 34a, an end of each leg 43 distal from the head portion 39 comprises a retention foot 45 which in use protrudes from the mounting aperture 31 and abuts a shoulder of the mounting aperture 31, preventing the peg 32 from accidental removal from the mounting aperture 31. When it is desired to deliberately remove the peg 32, the retention feet 45 can be squeezed together so that the retention feet 45 are disengaged from the shoulder and the legs 43 slide freely out of the mounting aperture 31.

[0433] The peg 32 as described herein is easy to install and remove, while providing a secure attachment capable of withstanding rough conditions likely to be experienced by the float 27. In particular, the hinged legs 43 are easy to clip onto or remove from a main line, and the mounting aperture 31 into which the peg 32 is driven provides the required force to keep the peg 32 closed and securely fastened against the main line 2.

[0434] Although the peg 32 has been described herein in relation to securing a float to a main line 2, it is contemplated that the peg 32 may be useful for securing any structure having an aperture therein to a rope or line.

[0435] In some scenarios, it may be desired to deploy the aquaculture farming system in a tidal area. Figure 35 shows another configuration adapted for use in tidal locations. The float 27 is similar to that described in Figure 21, with the addition of legs 46 for supporting the chassis 300 and containers (not shown) on a waterbed. The legs 46 engage with mounting apertures 31 that are not otherwise being used for main line mounting. Also shown are 'U'- shaped wires or bolts 49 for supporting containers (not shown).

[0436] When the tide is in, the float 27 can buoyantly support containers in the water. When the tide goes out, the float 27 is supported on the waterbed via the legs 46, holding the containers above the waterbed. The containers thereby avoid unwanted contact with the waterbed. In this scenario, the float 27 may not be rotated between upright and inverted configurations, since the natural movement of the tide provides regular exposure of the containers for drying and washing.

[0437] In some variations the chassis 300 may support containers that comprise trays or panels 47, as illustrated in Figures 36 and 37. A panel 47 comprises a frame 48 supporting a mesh 53. The mesh 53 preferably comprises two layers enclosing a space or pocket between the layers, for holding the aquaculture species (e.g. shellfish). Multiple pockets may be defined by the mesh layers. The pockets may have an open side for inserting the species, with the pockets then being tied or otherwise closed to prevent the contents from spilling out. The frame 48 is a rigid grid for supporting the flexible mesh 53. The frame 48 may comprise metal or rigid plastic, for example. The frame 48 is substantially flat, and multiple frames 48 are layered in a stacked arrangement to increase capacity of the float 27. In the illustrated example, the frames 48 are suspended below the ring shaped body 28 by two 'U'-shaped wires 49 passing over the panels 47 and passing through apertures (not visible) of the chassis 300 on either side of the chassis 300, secured by nuts 50. In other examples the frames 48 could be held in a vertical orientation.

[0438] Such a configuration may be used in a range of environments from inshore to exposed or subtidal. The use of mesh panels is particularly preferred in oyster farming, e.g. pearl farming. In particular, Mother of Pearl oysters, scallops and flat oysters (Bluff oysters) may be suited for the panel container variation.

[0439] The float 27 having containers comprising panels 47 may undergo periodic rotation as described previously to dry out the contents and / or clean the panels 47.

[0440] With reference to Figures 38 and 39A-G a further configuration will be described. In figure 38 the float 27 comprises of a chassis 300 and a container 34. In figure 38, the porous nature of the container 34 is not illustrated for simplicity. The numerous holes / perforations 56, of the container 34 are illustrated in Figures 39A-D.

[0441] In the example of figures 38 and 39A-D the container comprises of a first container portion 34a and a second container portion 34b, arranged in a configuration that is mirrored about the chassis. This enables the first container portion 34a to be above the chassis 300, while the second container portion 34b is below. The first container portion 34a and second container portion 34b may each be in the form of a basket each defining an open top containment region that each have a base 54a and 54b respectively that are opposite each other and opposite the open top of each of the first container portion 34a and second container portion 34b respectively. At the open top the baskets are preferably secured to the ring shaped body that is the chassis 300. In this way, together with the chassis, the baskets create a container 34 that has one enclosure 100.

[0442] In figure 38 the float is shown with the first container 34a is upper more with its base 54a at the top of the float 27 and with the second container portion 34b is lower more with its base 54b at the bottom of the float 27. With the content of the container contained in a single enclosure 100, the content can drop to the bottom of the enclosure which may be at the base 54a or 54b depending on the rotational orientation of the container 34. The dropping may be controlled by way of a partition in the enclosure and as will be described below.

[0443] Access to the interior enclosure 100 of the container 34 may be provided by one or more doors 55, located at the side, or end of one of both of the first container portion 34a and second container portion 34b. It will be appreciated that the number and configuration of doors 55, may be varied according to the needs of each given configuration and the intended mode of operation as required.

[0444] In some configurations one or both container portions may be mounted to the chassis 300 in a moveable manner. For example a container portion may be secured with its open top located to the chassis 300 but is able to pivot relative the chassis so that the open top of the container portion can be exposed to thereby open the enclosure 100.

[0445] In use, the buoyant ring shaped body 28 may support the first container portions 34a and second container portion 34b in a condition in which a second container portion 34b is submerged with respect to the waterline and a second container portion 34a is positioned above the waterline. The species (eg shellfish) typically being non-buoyant within the container 34 will therefore naturally settle toward and / or in the bottom container 34, such that the species is completely or substantially submerged. The first container portion 34a will be exposed, e.g. to the air and / or UV light. As described previously, this may be advantageous at various times. When desired, the float 27 can be flipped (e.g. using techniques previously described) so that the previously submerged second container portion 34b is moved to be above the waterline, and the previously exposed first container portion 34a is moved to be submerged below the waterline.

[0446] As described previously, it may be desired to expose parts of the container above the waterline to subject such to ambient atmospheric conditions for cleaning and / or defouling for a given or desirable duration and / or frequency (herein called the "container exposure regime") whilst the species continues reside below the waterline. However, it may also be desired to selectively allow the shellfish (or other species) to be reside above the waterline and be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions for a given or desirable duration and / or frequency (herein called the "shellfish exposure regime"). Shellfish may be exposed in order to condition, strengthen and / or clean the shellfish the shellfish as described above.

[0447] The "container exposure regime" and the "shellfish exposure regime" may not be the same. For example the desired exposure time of a region of the container to de-foul that region to a sufficient extent, may exceed the time that shellfish should be exposed.

[0448] A configuration of a float as seen in figure 7a does not allow for container exposure regime to be independent of a shellfish exposure regime.

[0449] To provide exposure regime independence and with reference to Figures 39A-D a float 27 that has a partition 57 in the enclosure 100 is shown. A partition 57 is provided to define two zones, a first zone Z1 and a second zone Z2 in the enclosure 100.

[0450] The first zone Z1 is where the base 54a of the container 34 is provided. The second zone Z1 is there the base 54b of the container 34 is provided.

[0451] The partition is presented and configured to selectively prevent shellfish in the enclosure 100 dropping toward and the bottom of the container 34. The partition 57 can act as a shelf for the shellfish to be supported on and in a manner to be elevated above the waterline 25.

[0452] A passage 450 exists between the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2. The passage allows for the shellfish to move between the two zones. The passage 450 may be permanently open or it may be selectively closeable. The passage 450 may be an opening and may not have a passageway length to it. Eg it can just be a gap between the partition and the container.

[0453] A selectively closable opening may be provided by a partition that is at least in part a moveable partition 58 as seen in figures 39A-D. A selectively movable partition 58 is provided to selectively divide the enclosure 100 into the two zones. In normal use of the float 27, the partition 58 extends substantially horizontally as shown. In figures 39A-D there is shown a pair of moveable partitions 58.

[0454] With the selectively movable partition(s) 58 in a first closed position (shown with reference to the partition in the upper right of Figure 39a and in the upper left of Figures 39B-D) the selectively movable partition closes off a bottom portion of the container (as shown). The first zone Z1 and second zone Z2 are separated from each other and shellfish cannot move between the two zones. In use, the selectively movable partition 58, can be used to retain shellfish in one or the other of the first zone Z1 and second zone Z2. The selectively moveable partition 58 may operate to move across the width of the container 34, or alternatively across the length, or combinations thereof where partitions 57 are used to divide the container 34.

[0455] With the selectively movable partition 58 in a second, open position (shown in the lower left of Figure 39a and the upper right of Figures 39B-D), a passage between the first zone Z1 and second zone Z2 is created. This allows for shellfish to be moved between the two zones. In the open position the selectively movable partition 58 has moved out of the way and opens a passage from the lower portion of the container 34 (eg at the base 54a), below the partition 58, to the upper portion of the container 34 above the partition (eg at the base 54a). This allows shellfish to move between the two zones via the opening of the passage 450 and via the interior aperture 29 of the ring shaped body 7.

[0456] In use, and in the orientation as illustrated in Figure 38a, shellfish contained in the float arrangement will settle toward the base 54b of the container 34. When the selectively movable partition 58 is closed, the shellfish will be trapped in the bottom of the lower container portion 34b in the second zone Z2 of the enclosure 100. Subsequently when float 27 is subsequently rotated upside down, the trapped shellfish will be located substantially above the waterline and be supported on the partition 58 still in second zone Z2.

[0457] When desired, the selectively movable partition 58 can be opened to allow the shellfish to fall back below the waterline (without rotating the float) towards the then first container portion 34a to settle in the first zone Z1. The then upper container portion 34b can stay exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions for a longer duration than the shellfish. Hence providing for independence of exposure regimes.

[0458] This 'partitioned container' system with selective operation of the moveable partition and rotation of the floats, allows the container to be operated in various ways during the aquaculture growth cycle, without the need to empty / remove the shellfish from the container.

[0459] The selective operation of the partition(s) can be achieved while on the deck of a vessel as described earlier or when the float is in the water (eg without needing to lift the float out and onto a vessel. It is envisioned that the selectively moveable partition may take many suitable forms that fulfill the functional requirements of selectively trapping shellfish as described. It is preferred that the selectively movable partition(s) 58, are robust, reliable and / or move sufficiently out of the way (when open) to allow relatively unimpeded travel of the shellfish via the passage between zones of the enclosure. That is, it is preferred that no shellfish become stuck or impeded such that they are unable to move as desired.

[0460] A preferred configuration of selectively movable partition 58 is illustrated in Figures 39A-G, wherein the partition 58 comprises two hinged leaves 59,60 in a bi-fold configuration. Figures 39E-G show the selectively moveable partition 58 in isolation from the rest of the float. Although only 2 leaves are illustrated, it will be appreciated that a bi-fold configuration may include anywhere from 2 leaves up to 5 or 6, or more. It is preferred that the bi-fold configuration operates substantially horizontally.

[0461] Between the bi-fold leaves 59,60 is a hinge 61 allowing each leaf to rotate with respect to one another and a further hinge 62 attaching the bi-fold partition 58 to the container. Preferably the hinge pins are of a suitable material that is corrosion resistant such as stainless steel, or suitable polymer. The bi-fold configuration is advantageous as it allows the selectively moveable partition to be compact, particularly in the vertical direction. This allows the operation of the selectively moveable partition 58 to occur without significant encroachment on the shellfish in the bottom of the container.

[0462] It is also preferred that the selectively moveable partitions 58, can be located and / or moved with respect to the container to allow for differing compartment sizes. For example, the partition 57 may be replaceable with two or more different sizes (i.e. heights), or the selectively moveable partitions 58 may mount at different heights onto the container. This allows for some customisation to suit the intended type of harvest (e.g. shellfish species, or marine life), the amount of shellfish in the container(s), or growth of the shell fish over time.

[0463] The moveable partition may be of a kind to insert and retract via a plurality of apertures in the container wall from exterior of the container 34 into the enclosure 100. A partition with a plurality of fingers, much like a comb, could be used to slide in and out of the enclosure as desired. This can allow for the setting of a partition at different distances from the chassis to allow for different elevations of the shellfish to be set above the waterline. It can allow for the float to be initially used without a partition during early staged of cultivation and for a partition to be added to the float during latter stages of cultivation when a shellfish exposure regime is to be commenced.

[0464] In a preferred form hinged leaves 59,60 of the selectively moveable partitions 58 may be operable by a variety of methods. It is preferred that the mechanism be robust, reliable and preferably easy to replace in the event of breakage and / or failure. As illustrated in Figures 39A-D, the selectively moveable partitions 58 are operable by one more cords 64, attached between the hinged leaves.

[0465] In order to help with smooth operation, the cord 64 may be attached at more than one location (for example to the leading edge of leaf 60 of the bi-fold partition. It will be appreciated that pulling on cord 64, will move the selectively moveable partitions 58 from an open position (shown in the lower left of Figure 39 A and upper right of Figures 39B-D), to a closed position (shown in the upper right of Figure 39A and upper left of Figures 39B- D).

[0466] In order to secure the selectively moveable partitions 58 in either the open and / or closed position, the cord 64 may be secured, clipped, tied, or fastened with cable ties, or clasped in the desired position by any suitable method (not shown). It is preferred that the mechanism is operable from outside the container.

[0467] Further, the selectively moveable partition(s) 58 may be biased in one position (such as the open position) by one or more mechanisms, for example an elastic rubber / bungee cord 65, a spring or lever or any other suitable method. It is preferred that the bias mechanism is simple, robust and / or easy to engage / disengage. Similarly, the cord 64 may have sufficient stiffness (i.e. not bendable rope) to hold the selectively moveable partitions 58 in place, and / or be selectively clipped, clamped or clasped into position.

[0468] It will be further appreciated that for a 'mirrored' configuration of the first container portions 34a and second container portion 34b such as that of Figure 38, it may not be required for both the container portions to include a selectively moveable partitions 58. It may be sufficient that when desired, a moveable partition 58 associated with one container portion, is available to trap the shellfish in one of the two zones Z1 and Z2. In some configurations of float 27, a single partition may be located to support the shellfish above the waterline in only one rotational orientation of the float or in both orientations. Other selectively moveable partitions are possible such as:

[0469] • one or more blinds, or

[0470] • one or more rollers.

[0471] The float 27 supporting the container 34 can be combined with one or more mounting formations as described previously. Mounting pegs and main lines are not shown but may be similar to the Figure 18a or 18b mounting configuration, for example. The first container portion 34a and second container portion 34b may include cutouts 63, on opposite sides to allow a main line to pass through the containers if desired. These cut-outs may be presented as 'knock out' features, that are manufactured in place, but can be readily removed if required.

[0472] The first container portion 34a and second container portion 34b on the upper and lower sides of the chassis 300 could be the same type of container, e.g. as illustrated in Figure 38, or could be different types.

[0473] Further, due to the selectively moveable partitions 58 effectively closing a zone in a container portion, a float 27 may be configured with only a container on one side of the chassis 300. This configuration could operate like the configuration of Figure 13 for example.

[0474] With reference to Figures 40A-C and 41 -43 a further configuration will be described. In Figures 40A-C and 41 -43 the float 3 comprises a chassis 300 and a container 34. The porous nature of the container 34 is illustrated in Figures 41 -43.

[0475] Figures 40A-C and 41 -43 illustrate an example in which the container 34 comprises a partition 57 that is a fixed partition, i.e. not selectively moveable. The fixed partition 57 is provided to divide the enclosure 100 into the two zones Z1, Z2 with a passage 450 therebetween. Since the partition 57 is fixed, the passage 450 is permanently open. In normal use of the float 3, the partition 57 extends substantially horizontally as shown.

[0476] The float 3 of Figures 40A-C may otherwise be similar to the float 27 of Figures 38 and 39A-D except that the partition 57 is a fixed partition. For example, in use, the buoyant ring float shaped body 28 may support the container 34 in a condition in which the container 34 is partially submerged with respect to the waterline 25, and the chassis 300 may be connectable to main lines 2a, 2b as discussed previously. The passage 450 extends from the lower portion of the container 34, below the partition 57, to the upper portion of the container 34 above the partition 57. This allows shellfish to move between the two zones Z1, Z2 (eg from one of the zones to the other and back) via the opening of the passage 450 and via the interior aperture 29 of the chassis 300.

[0477] The fixed partition 57 may act as a shelf on which the shellfish rest in certain orientations of the float 3. The partition 57 may support the shellfish above the waterline 25 to allow for periodic exposure of the shellfish to atmospheric conditions, which has the advantages discussed previously.

[0478] In the example shown, the partition 57 extends across a majority of the width of the container 34, but may be longer or shorter as desired. The length of the partition 57 may be selected to balance the size of the passage 450 (to ensure the shellfish can move between zones Z1, Z2 without becoming stuck) with the capacity of the partition 57 as a shelf.

[0479] The float 3 may be rotatable between different orientations that locate the shellfish in the desired zone Z1, Z2. Depending on the direction of rotation of the float 3 (e.g. clockwise vs counterclockwise), the shellfish may either stay in the same zone Z1, Z2 or move through the passage 450 to the other zone. Also, the shellfish may be supported on the fixed partition 57 (e.g. above the waterline) or be submerged in the bottom region of the container 34.

[0480] For example, Figure 40A shows the float 3 in a first orientation, Figure 40B shows the float 3 of Figure 40A after a 180-degree counterclockwise rotation, and Figure 40C shows the float 3 of Figure 40A after a 180-degree clockwise rotation.

[0481] In use, and in the orientation as illustrated in Figure 40A, shellfish contained in the enclosure 100 will naturally settle toward the base of the container 34 in the first zone Z1. If it is desired to rotate the float 3 to expose the submerged parts of the container 34 to the atmosphere, depending on whether it is desired for the shellfish to remain submerged or to be held above the waterline 25, the float 3 can be rotated counterclockwise or clockwise, resulting in the Figure 40B or Figure 40C arrangement respectively.

[0482] When float 3 is rotated upside down (180 degrees) in a counterclockwise direction from the Figure 40A configuration, the shellfish will move under gravity from the first zone Z1 through the passage 450 to the second zone Z2, resulting in the configuration shown in Figure 40B. The shellfish therefore remain submerged below the waterline 25, while the container 34 has rotated to expose the previously submerged portion to the atmosphere.

[0483] Conversely, when float 3 is rotated upside down (180 degrees) in a clockwise direction from the Figure 40A configuration, the shellfish will be retained in the first zone Z1 due to the partition 57, resulting in the configuration shown in Figure 40C. The shellfish are located substantially above the waterline 25 and are supported on the partition 57 still in the first zone Z1.

[0484] Therefore, depending on what direction the float 3 is rotated, when the float 3 is rotated to expose the underside of the container 34, the shellfish can either remain submerged or be held above the waterline 25 to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions. Hence providing for independence of exposure regimes.

[0485] This 'partitioned container' system with a fixed partition 57 and selective rotation of the floats allows the container 34 to be operated in various ways during the aquaculture growth cycle, without the need to empty / remove the shellfish from the container 34.

[0486] The partition 57 may have a sloped end portion 66 to assist in retaining the shellfish on the partition 57. Although shown with a substantially flat horizontal shape in Figures 40A-C (aside from the sloped end portion 66), the partition 57 may alternatively have a concave shape. Figures 41 -43 show a partition 57 having two sloped surfaces forming a concave V shape. This can help cradle or bunch the shellfish together and in a desired location on the partition. This improves stability of the float 3 by distributing the weight of the shellfish towards the centre of the float 3, and assists the shellfish to remain on the partition 57 rather than sliding back to the lower zone.

[0487] The fixed partition 57 may be permanently installed in a container 34 or it may be removable. For example, the partition 57 may be secured to the container 34 using one or more removable fasteners or adhesives (not shown). The partition 57 may be manufactured separately from the container 34, or it may be integrally moulded with the container structure, for example. A removable partition 57 allows flexibility in use, removal for cleaning / maintenance, etc.

[0488] A fixed partition 57 may be more robust than a selectively movable partition 58, with fewer parts (and in particular fewer moving parts which may be more likely to fail). The fixed partition 57 may be easier to install and remove from the container 34. However, the moveable partition 58 has the advantage of not needing to rotate the container 34 to move the shellfish from an exposed to a submerged location, since the partition 57 can be operated to release the shellfish to a lower zone independently of rotation of the container 34. Though potentially the container does not need to be rotated 180 degrees to cause the shellfish on the partition to drop off the partition. A tilting through 90 degrees should be enough for example. Or perhaps tilting to 60 degrees and some degree of shaking may also be sufficient.

[0489] As shown in Figures 40A-C and 43, the container 34 may comprise slosh damper(s) 400.

[0490] Many forms of shellfish aquaculture, especially basket or floating bag systems, expose shellfish such as oysters to a sloshing action — also called tumbling or wave action. This is not only acceptable, but often intentional. It plays an important role in producing high-quality, marketable oysters. Such action can help with:

[0491] 1. Shell shaping

[0492] 2. Shell hardening

[0493] 3. Biofouling control

[0494] 4. Detering clumping

[0495] 5. Encouraging stronger meat condition

[0496] When situated in rough water, the shellfish may excessively slosh inside the container 34. This can be undesirable as it can cause the shellfish to harden too much. The slosh dampers 400 may reduce sloshing by providing obstructions to inhibit movement of the shellfish in the container 34.

[0497] Studies have shown excessive sloshing can damage juvenile oysters or cause stress if not balanced with growth phase. Yet larger oysters can be subjected to more slosh action. However subjecting oysters to too much sloshing can cause their shells to develop unfavorably. This can include there being no visible part line between the two valves of the oyster making them difficult or impossible to shuck.

[0498] Adjustability or control over slosh intensity is may hence also be desirable. This may be achieved by being able to add / remove / adjust the slosh dampers in the enclosure. Provision of two zones in the enclose each with a different degree of slosh dampening can be desirable so that more juvenile shellfish can be held in a zone offering more damping and be moved to a different zone when appropriate to be subjected to less damping.

[0499] The slosh dampers 400 may be located in a part of the enclosure 100 of a or each container 34. It is preferred for the slosh dampers 400 to be located in parts of the container 34 where the shellfish will settle, when submerged under the water and / or above the water (e.g. supported on a partition 57). The slosh dampers 400 may be located in one or both of the first zone Z1 and the second zone Z2.

[0500] A slosh damper 400 may comprise one or more protrusions extending into the enclosure 100, such as pins. Protrusions provide obstructions that limit the movement of shellfish when the container 34 moves (particularly a rocking motion when situated in turbulent water). The slosh dampers 400 may be removable or fixed. Removable slosh dampers 400 provide flexibility in use to adapt the configuration to the shellfish lifecycle. For example, it may be useful to reduce sloshing for young shellfish, whereas some degree of sloshing may help strengthen older shellfish before harvesting. Preferably the slosh dampers 400 can be installed, adjusted and / or removed from outside the container 34 for easy access. For example, they may be insertable from outside the container 34 through holes in the container 34 and secured thereto. The level of damping may be controlled based on the type, position and number / density of slosh dampers 400, for example.

[0501] Where there are multiple zones in the enclosure 100 where the shellfish can be supported, such as a base of the container 34 and a partition 57, different slosh dampers 400 may be provided for each zone depending on the desired level of damping.

[0502] This allows for the container to be rotationally oriented so that when the shellfish are juvenile they may live in a part of the enclosure where a higher degree of slosh damping is provided compared to where the shellfish may live when they are more mature. An aquaculture farm operator can hence configure the floats to suit. Also reconfiguration may occur in such a way if rough conditions are predicted to arrive.

[0503] The floats 3 of Figures 38-43 may be connectable to one or more main lines 2 in a similar manner as described with reference to earlier embodiments (e.g. Figure 1, Figures 18A-24). Figure 44 shows an arrangement of three floats 3 connected to a main line 2. Only one main line is provided as part of the system of the invention in this example. The main line 2 extends in a direction parallel to a short axis of each float 3 and through a central portion of each float 3. The floats 3 may alternatively be connected to two or more main lines 2.

[0504] As described previously, it may be desired to have a different "container exposure regime" and "shellfish exposure regime", to expose parts of the container 34 and / or shellfish above the waterline 25 for cleaning and / or de-fouling for different given or desirable duration and / or frequency. Another component that may again have a different "exposure regime" is the chassis 300. The chassis 300 may require less periodic exposure since fouling of the chassis 300 may be less of a concern than, for example, the container 34 or shellfish. It may be useful to periodically expose the different parts of the chassis 300 above the waterline 25, and it may be useful to do this independently from exposure of different parts of the container 34 and / or shellfish according to the respective exposure regimes. The chassis may for example only come out of the water during harvest time for proactive cleaning whilst out of the water or for rotation to then be returned to the water for passive cleaning.

[0505] In another configuration, the container 34 may be rotatable independently from the chassis 300. Figures 45A-C, 46A-F and 47A-C show an example of such a configuration.

[0506] Figure 45A shows a container 34 supported by a chassis 300. The chassis 300 is connected to a pair of parallel mainlines 2a, 2b e.g. as described previously. The container 34 has a substantially circular cross-section and may be a cylindrical shape. The container 34 is rotatable about an axis B. In this example the rotational axis B is parallel to the main lines 2, but the rotational axis B could be perpendicular to the mainline(s) or in a different direction.

[0507] The container 34 comprises a partition 57. The partition 57 could be fixed or selectively movable as described previously. In the example shown the partition 57 is fixed and extends across the majority of the width of the container 34, dividing the container 54 into first zone Z1 and second zone Z2 with a passage 450 therebetween. The two zones Z1, Z2 are approximately equally sized in the embodiment shown but could be asymmetrical in size.

[0508] Figure 45A shows a first rotational orientation of the float 3 in which the shellfish are settled at the bottom of the container 34 in the first zone Z1 below the partition 57, submerged below the waterline 25. Main line 2a is on the left side of the container 34 and main line 2b is on the right side of the container 34.

[0509] When it is desired to exposure the shellfish and / or the submerged part of the container 34 without exposing the underside of the chassis 300, the container 34 is rotated independently from the chassis 300 about the rotational axis B. The resulting configuration after a 180-degree clockwise rotation of the container 34 is shown in Figure 45B. The container 34 is 180 degrees rotated compared to Figure 45A, whereas the chassis 300 is in the same rotational orientation. The shellfish have remained in the first zone Z1 due to the partition 57, and are supported above the waterline 25 by the partition 57.

[0510] Alternatively, starting from the Figure 45A configuration, if it is desired to simultaneously expose the shellfish, the underside of the container 34 and the underside of the chassis 300, the whole float 3 including the chassis 300 can be rotated. Figure 45C shows the resulting configuration after a 180-degree clockwise rotation of the whole float 3 of Figure 45C. The mainlines 2a, 2b are now on opposite sides since the chassis 300 itself has been rotated along with the container 34.

[0511] The container 34 in the configuration of Figures 45A-C comprises first slosh dampers 400a in first zone Z1 and second slosh dampers 400b in second zone Z2. The first and second slosh dampers 400a, 400b are sized and shaped differently in this example to provide different levels of damping. However, they could be the same size if desired.

[0512] Although not shown, it will be appreciated that a selectively moveable partition 58 could be provided instead of (or in addition to) a fixed partition 57 in configurations with independent rotation of the container 34 and chassis 300.

[0513] The float 3 may comprise a latch (not shown) for preventing relative rotation of the container 34 and chassis 300, i.e. retaining the container 34 in a particular orientation relative to the chassis 300, until it is desired to rotate the container 34 independently from the chassis 300. The latch may be similar to latch 11 described previously.

[0514] It will be appreciated that the float 3 in Figure 45A could instead be rotated counterclockwise (either the container 34 alone or in combination with the chassis 300). This would result in the shellfish passing through the passage 405 and settling in the second zone Z2 after rotation, remaining submerged, rather than supported above the waterline 25 by the partition 57. In this way, the chassis 300, the container 34 and the shellfish can each have independent exposure regimes which are controlled by flipping one of both of the container 34 and the chassis 300, and selecting the desired direction of rotation.

[0515] Figures 46A-F show example sequences of clockwise and counterclockwise rotations of the container 34 of Figures 45A-C which selectively expose the shellfish and / or parts of the container 34. The container 34 is substantially the same as the container 34 of Figures 45A-C except that the partition 57 has a Y shape to provide a concave shaped shelf for the shellfish in various rotational orientations. This helps to support the shellfish on the partition 57 in both first and second zones Z1, Z2 when either zone is in the upper position, as shown in Figures 46B and 46E.

[0516] The table below shows the corresponding clockwise (C) or counterclockwise (CC) movement depicted in the diagram. For example, going from the position of Figure 46A to the position of Figure 46B corresponds to clockwise movement c1 in the diagram.

[0517]

[0518] It can be seen that many configurations are possible depending on how the container 34 is rotated (degree of rotation and direction). The shellfish can be in the first zone Z1 either submerged at the bottom of the container 34 (Figure 46A) or supported on the partition 57 above the waterline 25 (Figure 46B), or in the second zone Z2 either submerged at the bottom of the container 34 (Figure 46D) or supported on the partition 57 above the waterline 25 (Figure 46E) depending on the sequence of clockwise and counterclockwise movements selected.

[0519] Figures 47A-E show more detailed views of a float 3 according to the configuration of Figures 45A-C. The Figures depict the cylindrical container 34 supported by the chassis 300, with the fixed partition 57 in the enclosure 100. The container 34 has a rotational axis B which allows it to rotate independently of the chassis 300 if desired. The chassis 300 may support the container 34 via an axle 650 / 67 along the rotational axis B. Figures 47A and 47C also show mounting pegs 32 for connecting the float 3 to a main line 2 e.g. in the manner described previously. The chassis 300 may present an axle 650 / 67 (these could be stub axles or other means) to provide for the rotational support of the container 34 relative the chassis.

[0520] Figures 48A-B and 49A-C show example arrangements of an aquaculture system 1 in which main line floats 3000 are separately secured to the main lines 2 to provide appropriate buoyancy to parts of the aquaculture system 1. This means that each float 3 may be attached to and supported by the main lines 2 without self-provision of sufficient buoyancy.

[0521] Figure 48A shows a schematic diagram of a series of main line floats 3000 attached to a pair of main lines 2a, 2b at respective ends of the main line float 3000. Also shown is a chassis 300 of a float 3 (shown without an associated container) connected to the main lines

[0522] 2 at respective ends of the chassis 300. Figure 48B shows a similar schematic diagram in which a series of main line floats 3000 alternates with a series of floats 3. In these examples the main line floats 3000 provide the buoyancy required for the chassis 300 to support the associated container 34, without the chassis 300 itself having sufficient buoyancy. The chassis 300 and container 34 can be of any type described herein.

[0523] Although the depicted examples show the main lines 2 arranged perpendicular to the axes of the main line floats 3000 and the floats 3, the main lines 2 could be parallel, or only one or more main lines 2 could be provided, as described previously.

[0524] Figures 49A and 49B show an example arrangement of a pair of main lines 2, a chassis 300 (with its associated container 34 shown in Figure 49B) and a main line float 3000. The chassis 300 comprises an axle 67 for supporting a container (e.g. in a rotatable manner according to the configuration shown in Figures 45A-C and 47A-C). The main lines 2 connect to the chassis 300 at respective ends of the chassis 300 and the main line float 3000 provides the buoyancy required for the chassis 300 to support the container 34. A series of such floats

[0525] 3 and main line floats 3000 is shown in an alternating arrangement in Figure 49C.

[0526] Providing the required buoyancy via separate main line floats 3000 may simplify the structure, operation and / or maintenance of the floats 3 as compared to a float 3 having a chassis 300 that is itself sufficiently buoyant. For example, the chassis shown in Figure 49A is of a relatively simple construction.

[0527] In some instances of the invention it is envisaged that the container may have the ring shaped body / chassis integrally formed with the container. The chassis is thereby provided as an integral part with the container to provide rigidity to the container and / or other functionality as is herein described. In some instances it is envisaged that there is no chassis as such provided to support the container and the container is connected or secured directly to a main line. Some advantages of the aquaculture system

[0528] • The system allows the aquaculture industry to operate in less populated areas / waterways. Moving aquaculture away from high traffic zones allows these areas to be returned to nature.

[0529] • The system offers better marine ecology environments (less pollution, more food) to potentially grow better / safer species.

[0530] • The float will allow water movement across the species held in the container(s) (baskets, mesh baskets, mesh panels).

[0531] • At more exposed sites, the ring shaped body will protect the species from the significant wave action, while forcing upwelling water energy and food to be carried into the container offering the species more growing and conditioning opportunities.

[0532] • The system can be used sub-tidal in many conditions but can also be used intertidal when pegged to fixed support frames.

[0533] • The float can be adapted to have drainage holes within the structure.

[0534] • The float can be manufactured in several different configurations. Floatation, depth, length, width, and attachment points all can be adapted to meet a range of commercially available, or proprietary cultivation containers baskets, trays, mesh bags, bins, frames, pens, structures etc.

[0535] • Using existing double main line technology means farms and vessels are already well equipped with powerful cranes to place, lift and operate this new technology.

[0536] • These vessels allow the easy rotation and hauling of the floats for attaching, operation conditioning (loading and unloading), strengthen shellfish and rotation for cleaning purposes.

[0537] • These vessels and others are also significant enough to attach sleds and guides to offer the continuous farm practice of moving underpower or hauling along the farm structure to perform fast and efficient operations, not normally possible in open water environments.

[0538] • The float can be pegged securely to double main lines, offering less potential wear from rotating container axis systems. • The float is transferable on and off the double main line, if required. This is not possible with the other farm models (as they may require to cut or disassemble the whole line to change a container or axle or component).

[0539] • The double main line offers more security from potential breaking over single line systems.

[0540] • The float can be used with manually opening and closing container ends or can be configured to assist with automatic opening and closing ends for greater operations efficiency.

[0541] • The float can have as many pegged attachment points as required. Pegs can be replaced with rope lashing to the main lines if required.

[0542] • The modularity of the float by being able to secure to two main lines or to one main line provides flexibility for the end user of the float. In using the float of the present invention a farm operator is not limited to using the float just in two main line set ups but can also use it if they have a single mainline set up. The floats can be interchanged between such set ups.

[0543] • The shellfish can have a different exposure regime to the exposure regime of the container and / or float as a whole.

[0544] • The system of the present invention is able to allow for an aquaculture farm operator to implement independent regimes for exposing parts of the system to ambient atmospheric conditions. This provides enhanced control of species growth and conditioning achieved by being able to independently expose the species above water and reduce biofouling of the species or the chassis and / or the container. For example:,

[0545] 1. The float with its chassis and container may be rotated together, to expose different parts of the container and chassis to the air once every two weeks for two weeks to address biofouling of parts of the container and chassis. The species may remain underwater during the rotation process or may be raised up out of the water during such rotation but only remain above the waterline for say 24 hours. When 24 hours is up, the partition can be moved (either on its own if it's a moveable partition, or by tilting the container to rotate the partition) to allow the species to drop off the partition to be returned to the water. The parts of the container and chassis rotated upwardly 24 hours prior can remain exposed to the air. This process can be repeated 2 weeks (or other interval) later.

[0546] 2. Where the container is mounted to the chassis to be able to rotate relative the chassis, the chassis may not be rotated at all and it is just the container that is rotated from time to time in a manner as described in example 1. This can be less labour / energy intensive than rotating the entire float as such may require the hauling of the array of floats onto the deck of a vessel and causing the floats to be rotated above the waterline. The floats can remain in the water in order for the container to be so rotated. The container exposure regime can hence still be independent of the species exposure regime. It is also independent of what the chassis is doing.

[0547] 3. Where the container is mounted to the chassis to be able to rotate relative the chassis, the chassis can be rotated according to a different regime as that of the container and the exposure regime of the species. For example the species may be exposed once every 2 weeks for 8 hours, the different parts of the container may be exposed every 48 hours for 48 hours by rotation of the container to help remove biofouling to help with waterflow through the container and over the species, and the chassis may be rotated only once every harvest. Like example 2, this can be less labour / energy intensive than rotating the entire float as such may require the hauling of the array of floats onto the deck of a vessel and causing the floats to be rotated above the waterline.

[0548] The foregoing description of the invention includes preferred forms thereof.

[0549] Modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A float for use in marine aquaculture that utilizes at least one main line anchored at the floor of a body of water, said float comprising:(i) a chassis to be held at the waterline of the body of the water attached to the main line, and(ii) a container supported by the chassis, said container defining an enclosure to extend both above and below the waterline and to retain an aquaculture species to be cultivated, the enclosure comprising a first zone and a second zone, and(iii) a partition, located or locatable in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone, wherein the container can be rotated horizontally intermittently to assume at least a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation to selectively expose different regions of the container above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions whilst the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline so that the retained species are able to move towards a bottom region of the enclosure to be held in the enclosure below the waterline, and wherein the first zone defines the bottom region when the container is in the first rotational orientation and the second zone defines the bottom region when the container is in the second rotational orientation, and wherein the partition is operative in the enclosure to selectively restrict the species from being able to move to the bottom region and from one of the first zone to the second zone to enable the species to also be held in the enclosure above the waterline.

2. A float as claimed in claim 1 wherein the partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of thespecies in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

3. A float as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to enable the species to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline when the container is in at least one of (a) the first rotational orientation and (b) the second rotational orientation.

4. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the partition is operative in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to be able to selectively restrict movement of the species in the enclosure between the first zone and the second zone to selectively restrict the species from settling toward the bottom region and hold the species above the waterline when the container is in at least one of (a) the first rotational orientation and (b) the second rotational orientation.

5. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the partition is adapted and configured to be able to hold the species on top of the partition above the waterline.

6. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the partition can selectively restrict the species from settling toward the bottom region dependent on one or both of (a) the rotational orientation of the container and (b) movement of at least part of the partition in the enclosure relative the container.

7. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein a passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone, the passage is at least in part defined by or definable by the partition.

8. A float as claimed in claim 7 wherein the passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone, the passage is selectively closable by the partition to prevent movement of the species between the first zone and second zone.

9. A float as claimed in claims 7 or 8 wherein the passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move between the first zone and second zone, the passage is selectively closable by the partition to prevent movement of the species between the first zone and second zone.

10. A float as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9 wherein the passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to move between the first zone and second zone, the passage is (a) selectively closable by the partition to prevent movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone and (b) selectively openable by the partition to allow movement of the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone.

11. A float as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition allows the species to move from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone.

12. A float as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 11 wherein at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition causes the species, when supported on the partition above the waterline, to pass through the passage to allow the species to settled toward the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline.

13. A float as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 12 wherein at least part of the partition is moveable relative to the container and when moved to open the passage, the partition causes the species, when supported on the partition above the waterline, to fall off the partition through the passage from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone to allow the species to settled toward the bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline.

14. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein an open passage, defined at least in part by the partition, exists in said enclosure between the first zone and second zone to allow the species to be moved from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone by horizontal rotation of the container.

15. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein (a) the partition is adapted and configured and (b) a passage in said enclosure exists or can be created between the first zone and second zone, so that when the container is rotated horizontally: i. species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline can be moved relative to the container to the other of the first zone and second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure in the other of said first zone and second zone, and ii. species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure above the waterline.

16. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein (a) the partition is adapted and configured and (b) a passage in said enclosure exists or can be created between the first zone and second zone, so that when the container is rotated horizontally: i. species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline can be moved relative to the container to the other of the first zone and second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure in the other of said first zone and second zone, andii. species held by the partition upwards in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline can be caused to drop (eg slide) off the partition to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure.

17. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein an open passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone and the open passage and partition are adapted and configured so that when the container is rotated horizontally in: i.a first rotational direction, species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline are moved relative to the container to the other of the first zone and second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure in the other of said first zone and second zone, and ii.a second rotational direction, species in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

18. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein an open passage in said enclosure exists between the first zone and second zone and the open passage and partition are adapted and configured so that when the container is rotated horizontally in: i. a first rotational direction, species retained in the bottom region of the enclosure in the first zone below the waterline and corresponding to the container being in the first rotational orientation, are moved relative to the container to the second zone to settle towards the bottom of the enclosure and corresponding to the container being in the second rotational orientation, and ii. a second rotational direction, species retained in the bottom region of the enclosure in the first zone below the waterline and corresponding to the container being in the first rotational orientation are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure by thepartition above the waterline corresponding to the container being in the second rotational orientation.

19. A float as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18 wherein the container is supported by the chassis in a manner to be able to rotate relative to the chassis to allow the container to be rotated horizontally intermittently so that in use, irrespective of whether the container is in the first rotational orientation or the second rotational orientation, some part of the enclosure is below the waterline and some part of the enclosure is above the waterline.

20. A float as claimed in claim 19 wherein the container is mounted for rotation relative to the chassis about a horizontal rotational axis by a horizontal axle about which the container can rotate.

21. A float as claimed in claim 20 wherein the rotational axis extends through a part of the container so that in use, irrespective of whether the container is in the first rotational orientation or the second rotational orientation, some part of the enclosure is below the waterline and some part of the enclosure is above the waterline.

22. A float as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21 wherein the chassis is able to assume a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation by being rotated horizontally intermittently so that different regions of the chassis become exposed above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions yet the enclosure is partly submerged below the waterline.

23. A float as claimed in claim 22 wherein the chassis is able to be rotated horizontally independent of the container being able to be rotated horizontally so that the duration of exposure of different parts of the chassis above the waterline can be the same or different to the duration of exposure different parts of the container above the waterline.

24. A float as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 23 wherein the float is floated at the waterline of the body of water secured to two main lines that are horizontally spaced apart and at the waterline of the body of water in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to the control horizontal rotation of the chassis.

25. A float as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 24 wherein the float is floated at the waterline of the body of water secured to two main lines that are horizontally spaced apart and at the waterline of the body of water in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to control the horizontal rotation of the chassis by (a) keeping the chassis in a first rotational orientation for a duration of time and (b) moving the two main lines to be on opposite sides of each other thereby horizontally rotating the chassis to a second rotational orientation.

26. A float as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 18 wherein the container is supported by the chassis in a fixed manner so that when the container is horizontally rotated intermittently, the chassis will be horizontally rotated with the container, so that different regions of the chassis also become exposed above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions.

27. A method of cultivating a species in a sub-tidal marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored at the floor of a body of water, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a float comprising: a. a chassis configured to float at the waterline of the body of water and attached to the main line; b. a container supported by the chassis, the container defining an enclosure to retain a species to be cultivated in a manner that extends both above and below the waterline; and c. a partition positioned within the enclosure;ii. horizontally rotating the container intermittently between a first rotational orientation and a second rotational orientation, such that different regions of the container become exposed above the waterline to ambient atmospheric conditions while the enclosure remains partly submerged below the waterline yet allowing species retained in the enclosure to settle toward a bottom region of the enclosure below the waterline at a first zone of the enclosure as the bottom region when the container is in the first rotational orientation, and at a second zone of the enclosure as the bottom region when the container is in the second rotational orientation; iii. moving the partition by at least one of (a) horizontally rotating the container and (b) moving at least part of the partition relative to the container, to selectively restrict movement of the species between the first zone and the second zone, thereby enabling the species held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

28. A method as claimed in claim 27 further comprising defining an open passage between the first zone and the second zone, the passage being defined at least in part by a partition within the enclosure and rotating the container horizontally intermittently to move the species from one of the first zone and the second zone to the other of the first zone and the second zone through the open passage.

29. A method as claimed in claim 27 or 28 wherein the elevation of the species relative to the waterline can be changed by presenting an open passage between the first zone and the second zone and rotating the container horizontally such that (i) when species are held above the waterline by the partition in the enclosure the species can be caused to slide off the partition and settle toward the bottom of the enclosure and (ii) when species are in the bottom region of the enclosure in one of the first zone and second zone below the waterline the species are moved relative to the container by the partition upwards to be held in the enclosure by the partition above the waterline.

30. A marine aquaculture farming system comprising:i. at least one main line anchored to the floor of a body of water, and ii. a float as claimed in claim 1 or 33 or 36 held, at the waterline of the body of water, by said at least one main line.

31. A marine aquaculture farming system as claimed in claim 30 wherein two main lines are provided that are horizontally spaced apart and at the waterline of the body of water in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to control horizontal rotation of the chassis.

32. A marine aquaculture farming system as claimed in claim 30 or 31 wherein there are two main lines that are horizontally spaced apart in a parallel manner and are respectively attached at opposed ends of the chassis to control rotation of the chassis by (a) keeping the chassis in one rotational orientation for a duration of time and (b) moving the two main lines to be on opposite sides of each other thereby horizontally rotating the chassis.

33. A float for use in a marine aquaculture farm that utilizes at least one main line anchored to the ground in a body of water, the float comprising: a ring shaped body to be floated horizontally at the waterline of the body of the water and defining an interior aperture, and wherein said ring shaped body is buoyant, a container defining an enclosure to retain an aquaculture species and supported by said ring shaped body such that with said ring shaped body in a first horizontal rotational orientation, the container is configured to locate at least partially below the waterline, and at least one main line mounting formation providing an attachment point for a said at least one main line.

34. A float as claimed in claim 33 wherein the container is supported such that in said first horizontal rotational orientation, said container is located substantially below the waterline, and with said ring shaped body horizontally flipped so as to be in a secondhorizontal rotational orientation at the waterline, said container is located substantially above the waterline.

35. A float as claimed in claim 33 wherein the container is supported by the ring shaped body such that (i) with the ring shaped body in the first horizontal rotational orientation, a first zone of the enclosure will be located below the waterline to one side of the ring shaped body and a second zone of the enclosure discrete from the first zone will be located above the waterline on an opposite side of the ring shaped body, and (ii) that with the ring shaped body in the second horizontal rotational orientation, at least part of (and preferably entirely) the first zone of the enclosure will be located above the waterline to one side of the ring shaped body and the second zone of the enclosure will be located below the waterline on an opposite side of the ring shaped body.

36. A float for shellfish aquaculture to control growth and conditioning of a cluster of shellfish and control biofouling of the float, said float comprising of(i) a chassis to be supported at the waterline of the body of the water, and(ii) a container supported by the chassis extending both above and below the waterline, said container defining an enclosure to be able to retain the cluster of shellfish above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions and below the waterline, wherein the container is supported to be intermittently rotated horizontally so that the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:(a) different regions of the container, and(b) the cluster of shellfish, that are otherwise below the waterline, can be independently controlled.

37. A float as claimed in claim 36 wherein the container is supported to be intermittently rotated horizontally so that the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:(a) different regions of the container, and(b) the chassis, and(c) the cluster of shellfish,that are otherwise below the waterline, can be independently controlled.

38. A method of controlling the growth and conditioning of a cluster of shellfish and managing biofouling in an inter-tidal marine aquaculture environment, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a float comprising: i. a chassis configured to float at the waterline of a body of water; and ii. a container supported by the chassis, said container defining an enclosure extending both above and below the waterline to be able to retain the cluster of shellfish above the waterline to be exposed to ambient atmospheric conditions and below the waterline; b) intermittently rotating the container horizontally to independently control the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:(i) different regions of the container, and(ii) the cluster of shellfish.

39. A method of claim 38 wherein the method comprises intermittently rotating horizontally at least one of (a) the container and (b) the chassis to be able to independently control the exposure to ambient atmospheric conditions of:(a) different regions of the container, and(b) different regions of the chassis, and(c) the cluster of shellfish.

40. For a container containing a plurality of shellfish being cultivated, a method of independently controlling bio-foul of the container and cultivation of said shellfish, said method comprising:(d) floating a porous container, that defines an enclosure comprising a first zone separated by a partition from a second zone and at least one passage (whether selectively closable or always open) between the first zone and second zone, at the surface of a body of water with the container in a first rotational orientation where a part of the container including the secondzone is above the waterline and at least a part of the container including the first zone, is below the waterline,(e) horizontally rotating the container to a second rotational orientation, where a part of the container including the first zone is above the waterline and at least a part of the container including the second zone is below the waterline, to cause shellfish located at the bottom of the first zone and below the waterline to be moved upwardly by the partition to elevate the shellfish, supported on / by the partition up and above the waterline,(f) causing the selfish to move, through the passage, from being supported on / by the partition above the waterline for a first duration to below the waterline, to return the shellfish below the waterline and into the second zone whilst keeping or returning the container to its second rotational orientation so that parts of the container at the first zone remain above the waterline for a second duration that is longer than the first duration.

Images