Aquaculture system connectors and aquaculture systems

Abstract

Aquaculture system connectors and aquaculture systems using the same are described. The aquaculture system connectors provide an efficient and reliable way to transport aquatic animals from one body of water to another within an aquaculture system.

Description

TITLEAquaculture System Connectors and Aquaculture SystemsInventor: Robert HuberRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 706,848 filed under 35 U.S.C. § 111(b) on October 14, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

[0002] This invention was made with no government support. The government has no rights in this invention.BACKGROUND

[0003] Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) are systems for fish farming which utilize a network of interconnected tanks for inflow, where multiple grow-out tanks are arranged in series or parallel configurations, and where biofilter tanks are colonized by beneficial bacteria to break down harmful waste products and improve water quality, sedimentation, protein skimmer, oxygenation systems, and return. RAS systems are commonly arranged as a closed-loop system where water is continuously recycled and treated, minimizing water waste and environmental impact.

[0004] A fundamental limitation of RAS concerns the manual handling of fish themselves as many aquaculture tasks require physical transfers between separate tanks. These include managing tasks for growth and development where growing fish require larger living spaces as fish are moved from smaller nursery tanks to larger grow-out tanks, ensuring they have adequate room to develop and thrive; (2) size sorting of fish in a single tank when fish grow to different sizes due to factors like genetics, health, and feeding habits (manual transfer enables fish are sorted by size, allowing for more efficient feeding and growth management); (3) disease prevention (i.e., when operators identify an individual’s raising biosecurity concerns, the affected individual is captured and isolated to prevent the spread of disease within the facility); and (4) harvesting fish of desired market size, when the fish are manually transferred to finishing tanks and processing facilities.

[0005] Manual transfer remains a common and essential practice in RAS aquaculture, and there is a significant lack of automated systems that can accomplish key tasks in this process. Systems are needed that allow for the selective transfer of fish between tanks, ensuring optimal growth conditions, accomplishcommon management tasks, and minimizing the risk of disease. Therefore, there is a need for new and improved aquaculture system connectors and aquaculture systems.SUMMARY

[0006] Provided is an aquaculture system comprising a first tank; a second tank; and an aquaculture system connector providing a path of travel for an aquatic animal between the first tank and the second tank, the aquaculture system connector comprising a plurality of tubes defining a lumen and extending between a first end disposed in the first tank and a second end disposed in the second tank, and a pump in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to deliver air or water into to the lumen.

[0007] In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a bleed valve in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to remove air from the lumen. In particular embodiments, the bleed valve is connected at a highest point of the plurality of tubes. In particular embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause a blockage within the lumen, wherein the blockage is configured to prevent water from entering the lumen and configured to prevent the aquatic animal from traversing the lumen from the first tank to the second tank. In particular embodiments, the blockage is a gate within the plurality of tubes. In particular embodiments, the stopper is configured to open or close the gate within the plurality of tubes.10008] In particular embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a first stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause or remove a first blockage within the lumen at the first end; and a second stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause or remove a second blockage within the lumen at the second end.

[0009] In particular embodiments, the bleed valve is connected at a highest point of the plurality of tubes; the aquaculture system further comprises a first stopper connected to the plurality of tubes at the first end and a second stopper connected to the plurality of tubes at the second end, wherein the first stopper and the second stopper are each configured to cause a blockage within the lumen; and the aquaculture system further comprises at least one adjustment member configured to rotate and thereby tighten or loosen a connection between two of the plurality of tubes.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises an adjustment member configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between two of the plurality of tubes.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a first spacer disposed between one of the plurality of tubes and a first floor of the first tank. In particular embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a second spacer disposed between another one of the plurality of tubes and a second floor of the second tank.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the plurality of tubes comprises 45 -degree elbow tubes and straighttubes.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen. In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system further comprises a computer and a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen, wherein the water level sensor, the pump, and the bleed valve are communicatively coupled to the computer.

[0014] Further provided is a method of transporting a fish in an aquaculture system described herein, the method comprising opening the bleed valve to remove air from the lumen; pumping water through the pump into the lumen to fill the lumen with water; closing the bleed valve; and allowing the fish to traverse the lumen from the first tank to the second tank.

[0015] Further provided is a method of controlling movement of fish in an aquaculture system described herein, the method comprising actuating the first stopper to cause the first blockage within the lumen at the first end in the first tank, thereby preventing water in the first tank from entering the lumen and preventing fish in the first tank from entering the lumen; actuating the second stopper to cause the second blockage within the lumen at the second end in the second tank, thereby preventing water in the second tank from entering the lumen and preventing fish in the second tank from entering the lumen; and actuating the first stopper to remove the first blockage within the lumen at the first end, thereby allowing fish in the first tank to enter the lumen.10016] In certain embodiments, the method further comprises actuating the first stopper while a fish is in the lumen to cause the first blockage within the lumen at the first end, thereby confining the fish to the lumen and preventing further fish in the first tank from entering the lumen. In particular embodiments, the method further comprises actuating the second stopper while the fish is in the lumen to remove the second blockage within the lumen at the second end, thereby allowing the fish to exit the lumen into the second tank.

[0017] Further provided is an aquaculture system connector comprising a plurality of tubes defining a lumen and extending between a first end and a second end; a pump in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to deliver air or water to the lumen; a bleed valve in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to remove air from the lumen, and a stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause a blockage within the lumen.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system connector further comprises an adjustment member configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between two of the plurality of tubes.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the plurality of tubes comprises 45-degree elbow tubes and straight tubes.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and afourth elbow tube; and the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the second tube is connected to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is connected to the third tube, the third tube is connected to the third elbow tube, the third elbow tube is connected to the fourth tube, the fourth tube is connected to the fourth elbow tube, and the fourth elbow tube is connected to the fifth tube. In particular embodiments, the bleed valve is connected to the third tube. In particular embodiments, the pump is connected to the second tube, and the aquaculture system connector further comprises a second pump connected to the fourth tube.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the stopper comprises an actuator and a gate, wherein the gate is configured to be the blockage within the lumen.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the second tube is connected to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is attached to the third tube, the third tube is disposed in the fourth tube, the fourth tube is attached to the third elbow tube, the third elbow tube is connected to the fifth tube, the fifth tube is connected to the fourth elbow tube, and the fifth elbow tube is connected to the sixth tube. In particular embodiments, the fourth tube includes an adjustment member configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the fourth tube and the third tube.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the third tube is disposed in the second tube, the third tube is attached to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is attached to the fourth tube, the fourth tube is connected to the fifth tube, the fifth tube is attached to the fourth elbow tube, and the fourth elbow tube is attached to the sixth tube. In particular embodiments, the second tube includes an adjustment member configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the second tube and the third tube.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a seventh tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the third tube is disposed in the second tube, the third tube is connected to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is connected to fourth tube, the fourth tube is connected to the third elbow tube, the third elbow tube is connected to the fifth tube, the sixth tube is disposed in the fifth tube, the sixth tube connected to the fourth elbow, and the fourth elbow connected to the seventh tube. In particular embodiments, the second tube includes a first adjustment member attached to the second tube thatis configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a first seal disposed between the second tube and the third tube; and the fifth tube includes a second adjustment member connected to the fifth tube that is configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a second seal disposed between the fifth tube and the sixth tube.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system connector further comprises a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen. In certain embodiments, the aquaculture system connector further comprises a computer and a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen, wherein the water level sensor, the pump, and the bleed valve are communicatively coupled to the computer.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

[0027] FIG. 1: Illustration of a non-limiting example embodiment of an aquaculture system.

[0028] FIG. 2: Illustration of another non-limiting example embodiment of an aquaculture system.

[0029] FIG. 3: Illustration of another non-limiting example embodiment of an aquaculture system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Throughout this disclosure, various publications, patents, and published patent specifications are referenced by an identifying citation. The disclosures of these publications, patents, and published patent specifications are hereby incorporated by reference into the present disclosure in their entirety to more fully describe the state of the art to which this invention pertains.

[0031] Provided herein is an aquaculture system connector that provides a path for routing fish or other aquatic animals among otherwise separate aquaculture tanks. The path, akin to a bridge, originates below the water surface of one tank, rises above the water surface of both tanks, and terminates dipping again below the surface of a second tank. This acts as a communicating vessel. A set of control structures is included to allow automated filling of the vessel. The aquaculture system connector described herein is designed to assist in common workflow tasks of a fish farm where movement of fish among tanks is needed or often conducted.

[0032] Referring now to FIG. 1, an embodiment of an aquaculture system 100 is depicted. The aquaculture system includes a first tank 102, a second tank 104, and an aquaculture system connector 106 extending between the first tank 102 and the second tank 104. Each of the first tank 102 and the second tank 104 may be filled with water and define a water level 115.

[0033] The aquaculture system connector 106 includes a plurality of tubes which define a lumen andwhich extend from a first end 108 of the aquaculture system connector 106 to a second end 110 of the aquaculture system connector 106, where a first tube 112 defines the first end 108 and a seventh tube 114 defines the second end 110. The lumen is airtight so as to facilitate holding water. The first tube 112 is substantially parallel to a first tank floor 116, although this is not strictly necessary. The first end 108 and the second end 110 are disposed within the first tank 102 and the second tank 104, respectively. In particular, each of the first end 108 and the second end 110 are disposed within the first tank 102 and the second tank 104 below the water level 115. The first tube 112 is an elongate member having a first stopper 118 that is connected to the first tube 112. The first stopper 118 includes a first actuator 120 that is connected to, and configured to retract and deploy, a first gate 113 within the first tube 112 which blocks water and fish from entering the lumen at the first end 108. The first gate 113 is configured to block water from exiting the lumen through the first end 108, so as to facilitate filling the lumen with water. The first gate 113 is also configured to prevent fish from traveling from the first tank 102 into the aquaculture system connector 106 and into the second tank 104. Though a gate is described as an example, it is understood that any blockage in the lumen can prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 108 and fish from entering the lumen at the first end 108. The ability of the first gate 113 to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 108, in conjunction with the ability of the second gate 117 to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 110, allows for the lumen to be filled with water even though the lumen may be above the water level 115 of either of the first tank 102 or the second tank 104. In alternative embodiments, the gate does not block water but is configured to prevent fish from traveling out of the first end 108. For example, a gate may be created using a plurality of horizontal and vertical elongate members that are substantially evenly spaced apart, so as to make a grid.

[0034] Referring still to FIG. 1, a first spacer 122 is disposed between the first tube 112 and the first tank floor 116. Although the illustrated embodiment depicts a spacer 122, a spacer 122 may not be necessary in other embodiments of the aquaculture system connector 106. The first tube 112 is connected to a first elbow tube 124 at an end opposite of the first end 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the first elbow tube 124 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward a first tank top 126. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. The angle chosen for the first elbow tube 124 can be chosen based on the dimensions of the first tank 102. The first elbow tube 124 can be completely disposed below the water level 115; however, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the first elbow tube 124 is below the water level 115. The first elbow tube 124 can be made from a non-flexible material or a flexible material. The first elbow tube 124 being made from a flexible material allows for the first elbow tube 124 to have variable angles for better fitting the aquaculture system connector 106 to the first tank 102 and the second tank 104. The first elbow tube 124 is connected to a second tube 128 which islonger than the first tube 112. The second tube 128 extends from the first elbow tube 124 in a direction toward the first tank top 126. The second tube 128 is an elongate member that extends partially outside of the first tank 102. The second tube 128 can be substantially disposed below the water level 115. However, in alternative embodiments, approximately 50% of the second tube 128 is below the water level 115 while 50% of the second tube 128 is above the water level 115. In even further embodiments, approximately 25% of the second tube 128 is below the water level 115 while 75% of the second tube 128 is above the water level 115. A first pump 130 is disposed on the first tank floor 116 and below the water level 115, or any suitable location, and is configured to pump water and / or air into a first pump tube 132 that extends into, and is in fluid communication with, the second tube 128. The first pump 130 is configured to pump water into the lumen so as to allow fish to travel into and through the lumen. The first pump 130 is also capable of creating a current within the lumen to direct fish to travel to a desired tank. Although the first pump 130 is illustrated as being on the first tank floor 116, the first pump 130 can be in any suitable position within the first tank 102. Alternatively, the first pump 130 may be disposed outside of the first tank 102.

[0035] Referring still to FIG. 1, the second tube 128 is connected to a second elbow tube 134 that extends out of the first tank 102 and toward the second tank 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the second elbow tube 134 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward the second tank 104. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45 -degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. A third tube 136 is an elongate member and extends from the second elbow tube 134 such that the third tube 136 is substantially parallel to the first tank floor 116 and the second tank floor 150. The third tube 136 extends towards the second tank 104. The third tube 136 has a bleed valve 138 that is connected to the third tube 136 by a bleed valve tube 140. The bleed valve 138 is in fluid communication with the lumen. The bleed valve 138 has a lever 142 configured to open and close the bleed valve 138 from the external environment. The bleed valve 138 is configured to remove some or all the air from the lumen within the aquaculture connector 106 so that the fish are able to swim completely through the aquaculture connector 106 from the first tank 102 into the second tank 104 or from the second tank 104 to the first tank 102. The bleed valve 138 may be operated in conjunction with the pump 130 and / or the pump 158 to accomplish this. The bleed valve 138 is positioned at the highest point of the aquaculture connector 106.

[0036] Referring still to FIG. 1, the third tube 136 extends into a fourth tube 144 that is also an elongate member and is substantially parallel to the first tank floor 116 and the second tank floor 150. The fourth tube 144 includes a first adjustment member 146 that is configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the fourth tube 144 and the third tube 136. When the first adjustment member 146 is in a first position, the seal forms a sealed connection between the third tube 136 and the fourth tube 144. When the first adjustment member 146 is in a second position, the third tube 136 and the fourth tube 144 can beextended or shortened to change the length of the third tube 136 and the fourth tube 144 to accommodate for different distances between the first tank 102 and the second tank 104. The fourth tube 144 is connected to a third elbow tube 148. In the illustrated embodiment, the third elbow tube 148 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward a second tank floor 150. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees.

[0037] Referring still to FIG. 1, the third elbow tube 148 is connected to a fifth tube 152 that is an elongate member and extends towards the second tank floor 150. The fifth tube 152 includes a second adjustment member 154 connected thereto. A sixth tube 156 is an elongate member and is partially disposed within the fifth tube 152. The second adjustment member 154 is configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156. When the second adjustment member 154 is in a first position, the seal forms a sealed connection between the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156. When the second adjustment member 154 is in a second position, the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156 can be extended or shortened to change the length of the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156 to accommodate for tanks having different dimensions. The fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156, when combined, can be substantially disposed below the water level 115. However, in alternative embodiments, approximately half of the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156 are below the water level 115 while approximately half of the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156 are above the water level 115. In even further embodiments, approximately a quarter of the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156 are below the water level 115 while approximately three-quarters of the fifth tube 152 and the sixth tube 156 are above the water level 115. A second pump 158 is disposed on the second tank floor 150 and below the water level 115, and is configured to pump water and / or air into a second pump tube 160 that extends into the sixth tube 156. The second pump 158 is configured to pump water into the lumen so that fish can swim through the lumen. The second pump 158 is also capable of creating a current within the lumen to direct fish to travel to a desired tank. Although the second pump 158 is illustrated as being on the second tank floor 150, the second pump 158 can be in any suitable position within the second tank 104. Further, the second pump 158 may be disposed outside of the second tank 104.

[0038] A fourth elbow tube 162 is connected to the sixth tube 156. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth elbow tube 162 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction away from the first tank 102. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. The fourth elbow tube 162 can be completely disposed below the water level 115; however, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the fourth elbow tube 162 is below the water level 115. The fourth elbow tube 162 can be made from a non-flexible material or a flexible material. The fourth elbow tube 162 being made from a flexible material allows forthe fourth elbow tube 162 to have variable angles for better fitting the aquaculture system connector 106 to the first tank 102 and the second tank 104. The seventh tube 114 is an elongate member and is connected to the fourth elbow tube 162, and the seventh tube 114 extends away from the fourth elbow tube 162 to the second end 110. The seventh tube 114 is substantially parallel to the second tank floor 150. The seventh tube 114 is an elongate member that has a second stopper 164 connected to the seventh tube 114. The second stopper 164 includes a second actuator 166 that is connected to, and configured to retract and deploy, a second gate 117 within the seventh tube 114 which blocks water and fish from entering the lumen at the second end 110. The second gate can be used to close the lumen at the second end 110 in order to fill the lumen with water. In alternative embodiments, the second gate 117 does not block water but is configured to prevent fish from traveling out of the second end 110. For example, the second gate 117 may be created using a plurality of horizonal and vertical elongate members that are substantially evenly spaced apart, so as to make a grid. The second gate 117 is also configured to prevent fish from traveling from the second tank 104 into the aquaculture system connector 106 and into the first tank 102. Though a gate is described as an example, it is understood that any blockage in the lumen can prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 110 and fish from entering the lumen at the second end 110. A second spacer 168 is disposed between the seventh tube 114 and the second tank floor 150. Although the illustrated embodiment depicts a spacer, a spacer may not be necessary in other embodiments of the aquaculture system connector 106.

[0039] With the lumen blocked off at both the first end 108 and the second end 110, by the first and second gates 113, 117, the pumps 132, 158 can fill the lumen with water while the contained air escapes through the bleed valve 138. Once water completely fills the lumen, the bleed valve 138 is closed and the first and second gates are opened, making the lumen ready for fish to travel through.

[0040] Referring still to FIG. 1, a water level sensor 170 is disposed in the third tube 136 or the fourth tube 144 and is configured to detect the water level 115 within the lumen in the third tube 136 or the fourth tube 144. In this manner, the water level 115 within the lumen in the highest tubes can be sensed so as to detect when water should be added to the lumen and / or air should be vented from the lumen. The water level sensor 170, pumps 130, 158, bleed valve 138, first stopper 118, and second stopper 164 may all be communicatively coupled to a suitable computer or controller in order to automate the function of the pumps 130, 158 and the bleed valve 138 based on readings from the water level sensor 170. The computer can control the first and second gates opening and closing and the bleed valve 138 opening and closing based on readings from the water level sensor 170. If air starts to accumulate at the top of the lumen, then the first and second gates are closed, the bleed valve 138 opens, the pumps 130, 158 fill the lumen up with water, the bleed valve 138 is closed, and then the first and second gates are opened, and all of this can be controlled by the computer for automation.

[0041] The aquaculture system connector 100 can be used for either open transportation of fish between the first tank 102 and the second tank 104, where the fish are permitted to freely traverse the aquaculture system connector 100, or for selective transportation of fish from the first tank 102 to the second tank 104, where the fish are not permitted to return to the first tank 102. Selective transportation can be accomplished by keeping the second gate closed while opening the first gate to allow fish to enter the lumen from the first tank, then closing the first gate 113 before opening the second gate 117 to allow the fish in the lumen to enter the second tank 102 without giving the fish the ability to return through the lumen to the first tank 102. Optionally, baffles and / or currents may be employed to further aid the travel of the fish.

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 2, an embodiment of an aquaculture system 200 is depicted. The aquaculture system includes a first tank 202, a second tank 204, and an aquaculture system connector 206 extending between the first tank 202 and the second tank 204. Each of the first tank 202 and the second tank 204 may be filled with water and defines a water level (not illustrated in FIG. 2).

[0043] Referring still to FIG. 2, the aquaculture system connector 206 includes a plurality of tubes defining a lumen and which extend from a first end 208 to a second end 210. The lumen is airtight so as to facilitate holding water. The first tube 212 defines the first end 208 and a seventh tube 214 defines the second end 210. The first tube 212 is substantially parallel to a first tank floor 216, although this is not strictly necessary. The first end 208 and the second end 210 are disposed within the first tank 202 and the second tank 204, respectively. In particular, each of the first end 208 and the second end 210 are disposed within the first tank 202 and the second tank 204 below the water level. The first tube 212 is an elongate member that has a first stopper 218 connected to the first tube 212. The first stopper 218 includes a first actuator 220 that is connected to, and configured to retract and deploy, a first gate (not illustrated in FIG. 2, but the same as the first gate 113 depicted in FIG. 1) within the first tube 212 which blocks water and fish from entering the lumen at the first end 208. The first gate is configured to block water from exiting the lumen through the first end 208, so as to facilitate filling the lumen with water. Though a gate is described as an example, it is understood that any blockage in the lumen can prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 208 and fish from entering the lumen at the first end 208. The first gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 208, in conjunction with the second gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 210, allows for the lumen to be filled with water even though the lumen may be above the water level of either of the first tank 202 or the second tank 204. The first gate is also configured to prevent fish from traveling from the first tank 202 into the aquaculture system connector 206 and into the second tank 204. In alternative embodiments, the gate does not block water but is configured to prevent fish from traveling out of the first end 208. For example, the gate may be created using a plurality of horizonal and vertical elongate members that are substantially evenly spaced apart, so as to make a grid.

[0044] Referring still to FIG. 2, a first spacer 222 is disposed between the first tube 212 and the first tank floor 216. Although the illustrated embodiment depicts a spacer 222, a spacer 222 may not be necessary in other embodiments of the aquaculture system connector 206. The first tube 212 is connected to a first elbow tube 224 at an end opposite of the first end 208. In the illustrated embodiment, the first elbow tube 224 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward the first tank top 226. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. The angle chosen for the first elbow tube 224 can be chosen based on the dimensions of the first tank 202. The first elbow tube 224 can be completely disposed below the water level; however, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the first elbow tube 224 is below the water level. The first elbow tube 224 can be made from a non-flexible material or a flexible material. The first elbow tube 224 being made from a flexible material allows for the first elbow tube 224 to have variable angles for better fitting the aquaculture system connector 206 to the first tank 202 and the second tank 204. The first elbow tube 224 is connected to a second tube 228 that is longer than the first tube 212. The second tube 228 is an elongate member and extends from the first elbow tube 224 in a direction toward the first tank top 226. The second tube 228 includes a first adjustment member 246 connected thereto. A first pump 230 is disposed on the first tank floor 216 and below the water level, or any suitable location, and is configured to pump water and / or air into a first pump tube 232 that extends into, and is in fluid communication with, the second tube 228. The first pump 230 is configured to pump water into the lumen so as to allow fish to travel into and through the lumen. The first pump 230 is also capable of creating a current within the lumen to direct fish to travel to a desired tank. Although the first pump 230 is illustrated as being on the first tank floor 216, the first pump 230 can be in any suitable position within the first tank 202. Alternatively, the first pump 230 may be disposed outside of the first tank 202.

[0045] Referring still to FIG. 2, a third tube 236 is an elongate member and is partially disposed within the second tube 228. The first adjustment member 246 is configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal which is disposed between the second tube 228 and the third tube 236. When the first adjustment member 246 is in a first position, the seal forms a sealed connection between the second tube 228 and the third tube 236. When the first adjustment member 246 is in a second position, the second tube 228 and the third tube 236 can be extended or shortened to change the length of the second tube 228 and the third tube 236 to accommodate for tanks having different dimensions. The second tube 228 and third tube 236, when combined, can be substantially disposed below the water level. However, in alternative embodiments, approximately half of the second tube 228 and third tube 236 is below the water level while approximately half of the second tube 225 and third tube 236 is above the water level. In even further embodiments, approximately one-quarter of the second tube 228 and the third tube 236 is below the water level whilethree-quarters of the second tube 228 and the third tube 236 is above the water level.

[0046] Referring still to FIG. 2, the third tube 236 is connected to a second elbow tube 234 that extends out of the first tank 202 and toward the second tank 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the second elbow tube 234 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward the second tank 204. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. A fourth tube 244 is an elongate member that extends from the second elbow tube 234 such that the fourth tube 244 is substantially parallel to the first tank 202 and the second tank 204 and extends towards the second tank 204. The fourth tube 244 has a bleed valve 238 that is connected to the fourth tube 244 by a bleed valve tube 240. The bleed valve 238 has a lever 242 configured to open and close the bleed valve 238 from the external environment. The bleed valve 238 is in fluid communication with the lumen. The bleed valve 238 is configured to remove some or all of the air from the lumen within the aquaculture system connector 206 so that the fish are able to swim completely through the aquaculture system connector 206 from a first tank 202 into the second tank 204 or from the second tank 204 to the first tank 202. The bleed valve 238 may be operated in conjunction with the pump 230 and / or the pump 258 to accomplish this. The bleed valve 238 is positioned at the highest point of the aquaculture system connector 206. The fourth tube 244 is connected to a third elbow tube 248. In the illustrated embodiment, the third elbow tube 248 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward a second tank floor 250. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees.

[0047] Referring still to FIG. 2, the third elbow tube 248 is connected to a fifth tube 252 that is an elongate member and extends towards the second tank floor 250. The fifth tube 252 includes a second adjustment member 254 connected thereto. A sixth tube 256 is an elongate member and is partially disposed within the fifth tube 252. The second adjustment member 254 is configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256. When the second adjustment member 254 is in a first position, the seal forms a sealed connection between the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256. When the second adjustment member 254 is in a second position, the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256 can be extended or shortened to change the length of the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256 to accommodate for tanks having different dimensions. The fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256, when combined, can be substantially disposed below the water level. However, in alternative embodiments, approximately half of the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256 can be below the water level while approximately half of the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256 are above the water level. In even further embodiments, approximately one-quarter of the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256 are below the water level while approximately three-quarters of the fifth tube 252 and the sixth tube 256 are above the water level. A second pump 258 is disposed on the second tank floor 250 and below the water level, and isconfigured to pump water and / or air into a second pump tube 260 that extends into the sixth tube 256. The second pump 258 can be in any suitable location. The second pump 258 is configured to pump water into the lumen so as to allow fish to travel into and through the lumen. The second pump 258 is also capable of creating a current within the lumen to direct fish to travel to a desired tank. Although the second pump 258 is illustrated as being on the second tank floor 250, the second pump 258 can be in any suitable position within the second tank 204. Alternatively, the second pump 258 may be disposed outside of the second tank 204.

[0048] Referring still to FIG. 2, a fourth elbow tube 262 is connected to the sixth tube 256. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth elbow tube 262 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction away from the first tank 202. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. The fourth elbow tube 262 can be completely disposed below the water level; however, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the fourth elbow tube 262 is below the water level. The fourth elbow tube 262 can be made from a non-flexible material or a flexible material. The fourth elbow tube 262 being made from a flexible material allows for the fourth elbow tube 262 to have variable angles for better fitting the aquaculture system connector 206 to the first tank 202 and the second tank 204. The seventh tube 214 is an elongate member and is connected to the fourth elbow tube 262, and the seventh tube 214 extends away from the fourth elbow tube 262 to the second end 210. The seventh tube 214 is relatively parallel to the second tank floor 250. The seventh tube 214 is an elongate member that has a second stopper 264 that is connected to the seventh tube 214. The second stopper 264 includes a second actuator 266 that is connected to, and configured to retract and deploy, a second gate (not illustrated in FIG. 2, but the same as the second gate 117 in FIG. 1) within the seventh tube 214 which blocks water and fish from entering the lumen at the second end 210. The second gate is configured to block water from exiting the lumen through the second end 210, so as to facilitate filling the lumen with water. In alternative embodiments, the gate does not block water but is configured to prevent fish from traveling out of the second end 220. For example, the gate may be created using a plurality of horizonal and vertical elongate members that are substantially evenly spaced apart, so as to make a grid. The second gate is also configured to prevent fish from traveling through the lumen from tire second tank 204 into the first tank 202. Though a gate is described as an example, it is understood that any blockage in the lumen can prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 210 and fish from entering the lumen at the second end 210. The second gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 210, in conjunction with the first gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 208, allows for the lumen to be filled with water even though the lumen may be above the water level of either of the first tank 202 or the second tank 204. A second spacer 268 is disposed between tire seventh tube 214 and the second tank floor 250. Although the illustrated embodimentdepicts a spacer 268, a spacer 268 may not be necessary in other embodiments of the aquaculture system connector 206.

[0049] With the lumen blocked off at both the first end 208 and the second end 210, by the first and second gates, the pumps 232, 258 can fill the lumen with water while the contained air escapes through the bleed valve 238. Once water completely fills the lumen, the bleed valve 238 is closed and the first and second gates are opened, making the lumen ready for fish to travel through.

[0050] Referring still to FIG. 2, a water level sensor 270 is disposed in the fourth tube 244 and is configured to detect the water level within the lumen in the fourth tube 244. In this manner, the water level within the lumen in the highest tube can be sensed so as to detect when water should be added to the lumen and / or air should be vented from the lumen. The water level sensor 270, pumps 230, 258, bleed valve 238, first stopper 218, and second stopper 264 may all be communicatively coupled to a suitable computer or controller in order to automate the function of the pumps 230, 258 and the bleed valve 238 based on readings from the water level sensor 270. The computer can control the first and second gates opening and closing and the bleed valve 238 opening and closing based on readings from the water level sensor 270. If air starts to accumulate at the top of the lumen, then the first and second gates are closed, the bleed valve 238 opens, the pumps 230, 258 fill the lumen up with water, the bleed valve 238 is closed, and then the first and second gates are opened, and all of this can be controlled by the computer for automation.|0051 ] The aquaculture system connector 200 can be used for either open transportation of fish between the first tank 202 and the second tank 204, where the fish are permitted to freely traverse the aquaculture system connector 200, or for selective transportation of fish from the first tank 202 to the second tank 204, where the fish are not permitted to return to the first tank 202. Selective transportation can be accomplished by keeping the second gate closed while opening the first gate to allow fish to enter the lumen from the first tank, then closing the first gate before opening the second gate to allow the fish in the lumen to enter the second tank 202 without giving the fish the ability to return through the lumen to the first tank 202. Optionally, baffles and / or currents may be employed to further aid the travel of the fish.

[0052] Referring now to FIG. 3, an embodiment of an aquaculture system 300 is depicted. The aquaculture system 300 includes a first tank 302, a second tank 304, and an aquaculture system connector 306 extending between the first tank 302 and the second tank 304. Each of the first tank 302 and the second tank 304 may be filled with water and defines a water level (not illustrated in FIG. 3).

[0053] Referring still to FIG. 3, the aquaculture system connector 306 includes a plurality of tubes which defines a lumen and extends from a first end 308 to the second end 310. The lumen is airtight so as to facilitate holding water. A first tube 312 defines the first end 308 and a fifth tube 314 defines the second end 310. The first tube 312 is substantially parallel to a first tank floor 316, although this is not strictly necessary. The first end 308 and the second end 310 are disposed within the first tank 302 and the secondtank 304, respectively. In particular, each of the first end 308 and the second end 310 are disposed within the first tank 102 and the second tank 104 below the water level. The first tube 312 is an elongate member having a first stopper 318 that is connected to the first tube 312. The first stopper 318 includes a first actuator 320 that is connected to, and configured to retract and deploy, a first gate (not illustrated in FIG. 3 but the same as the first gate 113 in FIG. 1) which blocks water from exiting, and fish from entering, the lumen at the first end 308. The first gate is configured to block water from exiting the lumen through the first end 308, so as to facilitate filling the lumen with water. The first gate is also configured to prevent fish from traveling from the first tank 302 into the aquaculture system connector 306 and into the second tank 304. Though a gate is described as an example, it is understood that any blockage in the lumen can prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 308 and fish from entering the lumen at the first end 308. The first gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 308, in conjunction with the second gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 310, allows for the lumen to be filled with water even though the lumen may be above the water level of either of the first tank 302 or the second tank 304. In alternative embodiments, the gate does not block water but is configured to prevent fish from traveling out of the first end 308. For example, the gate may be created using a plurality of horizontal and vertical elongate members that are substantially evenly spaced apart, so as to make a grid.

[0054] Referring still to FIG. 3, A first spacer 322 is disposed between the first tube 312 and the first tank floor 316. Although the illustrated embodiment depicts a spacer, a spacer may not be necessary in other embodiments of the aquaculture system connector 306. The first tube 312 is connected to a first elbow tube 324 at an end opposite of the first end 308. In the illustrated embodiment, the first elbow tube 324 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward the first tank top 326. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. The angle chosen for the first elbow tube 324 can be chosen based on the dimensions of the first tank 302. The first elbow tube 324 can be completely disposed below the water level; however, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the first elbow tube 324 is below the water level. The first elbow tube 324 can be made from a non-flexible material or a flexible material. The first elbow tube 324 being made from a flexible material allows for the first elbow tube 324 to have variable angles for better fitting the aquaculture system connector 306 to the first tank 302 and the second tank 304. The first elbow tube 324 is connected to a second tube 328 that is longer than the first tube 312. The second tube 328 extends from the first elbow tube 324 in a direction toward the first tank top 326. The second tube 328 is an elongate member that extends partially outside of the first tank 302. The second tube 328 can be substantially disposed below the water level. However, in alternative embodiments, approximately half of the second tube 328 is below the water level while approximately half of the second tube 328 is above the water level. In even further embodiments, approximately one-quarter of the second tube 328 is below thewater level while approximately three-quarters of the second tube 328 is above the water level. A first pump 330 is disposed on the first tank floor 316 and below the water level, or any suitable location, and is configured to pump water and / or air into a first pump tube 332 that extends into the second tube 328. The first pump 330 is configured to pump water into the lumen so as to allow fish to travel into and through the lumen. The first pump 330 is also capable of creating a current within the lumen to direct fish to travel to a desired tank. Although the first pump 330 is illustrated as being on the first tank floor 316, the first pump 330 can be in any suitable position within the first tank 302. Alternatively, the first pump 330 may be disposed outside of the first tank 302.

[0055] Referring still to FIG. 3, the second tube 328 is connected to a second elbow tube 334 that extends out of the first tank 302 and toward the second tank 304. In the illustrated embodiment, the second elbow tube 334 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward the second tank 304. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45 -degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. A third tube 336 is an elongate member and extends from the second elbow tube 334 such that the third tube 336 is substantially parallel to the first tank 302 and the second tank 304 and extends towards the second tank 304. The third tube 336 has a bleed valve 338 that is connected to the third tube 336 by a bleed valve tube 340. The bleed valve 336 has a lever 342 configured to open and close the bleed valve 338 from the external environment. The bleed valve 338 is in fluid communication with the lumen. The bleed valve 338 is configured to remove some or all of the air from the lumen within the aquaculture system connector 306 so that the fish are able to swim completely through the lumen in the aquaculture system connector 306 from the first tank 302 into the second tank 304 or from the second tank 304 into the first tank 302. The bleed valve 338 may be operated in conjunction with the pump 330 and / or the pump 358 to accomplish this. The bleed valve 338 is positioned at the highest point of the aquaculture system connector 306. The third tube 336 is connected to a third elbow tube 348. In the illustrated embodiment, the third elbow tube 348 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction toward a second tank floor 350. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45- degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees.

[0056] Referring still to FIG. 3, the third elbow tube 348 is connected to a fourth tube 344 that is an elongate member and extends towards the second tank floor 350. The fourth tube 344 can be substantially disposed below the water level. However, in alternative embodiments, approximately half of the fourth tube 344 is below the water level while approximately half of the fourth tube 344 is above the water level. In even further embodiments, approximately one-quarter of the fourth tube 344 is below the water level while approximately three-quarters of the fourth tube 344 is above the water level. A second pump 358 is disposed on the second tank floor 350 and below the water level and is configured to pump water and / or air into a second pump tube 358 that extends into the fourth tube 344. The second pump 358 can be in anysuitable location. The second pump 358 is configured to pump water into the lumen so as to allow fish to travel into and through the lumen. The second pump 358 is also capable of creating a current within the lumen to direct fish to travel to a desired tank. Although the second pump 358 is illustrated as being on the second tank floor 350, the second pump 358 can be in any suitable position within the second tank 304. Further, the second pump 358 may be disposed outside of the second tank 304.

[0057] Referring still to FIG. 3, a fourth elbow tube 362 is connected to the fourth tube 344. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth elbow tube 362 has an angle that is approximately 45 degrees and extends in a direction away from the first tank 302. Although the angle is illustrated as a 45-degree angle, the angle can be any suitable angle including, but not limited to, 22.5 degrees or 90 degrees. The fourth elbow tube 362 may be completely disposed below the water level; however, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the fourth elbow tube 362 is below the water level. The fourth elbow tube 362 can be made from a non-flexible material or a flexible material. The fourth elbow tube 362 being made from a flexible material allows for the fourth elbow tube 362 to have variable angles for better fitting the aquaculture system connecter 306 to the first tank 302 and the second tank 304. The fifth tube 314 is an elongate member and is connected to the fourth elbow tube 362, and the fifth tube 314 extends away from the fourth elbow tube 362 to the second end 310. The fifth tube 314 is substantially parallel to the second tank floor 350. Also, the fifth tube 314 is an elongate member that has a second stopper 366 connected to the fifth tube 314. The second stopper 364 includes a second actuator 366 that is connected to, and configured to retract and deploy, a second gate (not illustrated in FIG. 3 but the same as the second gate 117 in FIG. 1) which blocks water from exiting, and fish from entering, the lumen at the second end 310. The second gate is configured to block water from exiting the lumen through the second end 310, so as to facilitate filling the lumen with water. In alternative embodiments, the gate does not block water, but is configured to prevent fish from traveling out of the second end 310. For example, the gate may be created using a plurality of horizontal and vertical elongate members that are substantially evenly spaced apart, so as to make a grid. The second gate is also configured to prevent fish from traveling through the lumen from the second tank 304 into the first tank 302. Though a gate is described as an example, it is understood that any blockage in the lumen can prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 310 and fish from entering the lumen at the second end 310. The second gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the second end 310, in conjunction with the first gate’s ability to prevent water from exiting the lumen at the first end 308, allows for the lumen to be filled with water even though the lumen may be above the water level of either of the first tank 302 or the second tank 304. A second spacer 368 is disposed between the fifth tube 314 and the second tank floor 350. Although the illustrated embodiment depicts a spacer, a spacer may not be necessary in other embodiments of the aquaculture system connector 306.

[0058] With the lumen blocked off at both the first end 308 and the second end 310, by the first andsecond gates, the pumps 332, 358 can fill the lumen with water while the contained air escapes through the bleed valve 338. Once water completely fills the lumen, the bleed valve 338 is closed and the first and second gates are opened, making the lumen ready for fish to travel through.

[0059] Referring still to FIG. 3, a water level sensor 370 is disposed in the third tube 336 and is configured to detect the water level within the lumen in the third tube 336. In this manner, the water level within the lumen in the highest tube can be sensed so as to detect when water should be added to the lumen and / or air should be vented from the lumen. The water level sensor 370, pumps 330, 358, bleed valve 338, first stopper 318, and second stopper 364 may all be communicatively coupled to a suitable computer or controller in order to automate the function of the pumps 330, 358 and the bleed valve 338 based on readings from the water level sensor 370. The computer can control the first and second gates opening and closing and the bleed valve 338 opening and closing based on readings from the water level sensor 370. If air starts to accumulate at the top of the lumen, then the first and second gates are closed, the bleed valve 138 opens, the pumps 330, 358 fill the lumen up with water, the bleed valve 338 is closed, and then the first and second gates are opened, and all of this can be controlled by the computer for automation.

[0060] The aquaculture system connector 300 can be used for either open transportation of fish between the first tank 302 and the second tank 304, where the fish are permitted to freely traverse the aquaculture system connector 300, or for selective transportation of fish from the first tank 302 to the second tank 304, where the fish are not permitted to return to the first tank 302. Selective transportation can be accomplished by keeping the second gate closed while opening the first gate to allow fish to enter the lumen from the first tank, then closing the first gate before opening the second gate to allow the fish in the lumen to enter the second tank 302 without giving the fish the ability to return through the lumen to the first tank 302. Optionally, baffles and / or currents may be employed to further aid the travel of the fish.

[0061] The aquaculture system connectors described herein are useful for transporting fish or other aquatic animals between tanks or other locations in an efficient and reliable manner, and can be easily assembled or disassembled at aquaculture systems. Existing aquaculture systems can be modified with an aquaculture system connector, or new aquaculture systems can be fabricated with an aquaculture system connector connecting adjacent tanks, ponds, or other bodies of water.

[0062] The aquaculture system connector offers a method to fill a communicating vessel by opening a connecting path between tanks. In one non-limiting example use of the aquaculture system connector, the ends of the aquaculture system connector are submerged in separate tanks. Gates on either end are closed and the lumen of the aquaculture system connector is filled with water from a pump. The bleed valve is opened at the highest point of the aquaculture system connector allowing the air contained in the lumen to escape as the lumen is being filled. Once the lumen is completely filled with water, the bleed valve is closed and the gates at the end of the aquaculture system connector are opened, providing an aquatic paththat originates below the surface of one tank, rises above the first tank’s containment walls, continues through a horizontal member spanning to a new location, and clipping back down to below the second tank’ s surface. When the water level sensor detects air accumulating in the aquaculture system connector, the bleed valve is opened to refill the aquaculture system connector again in its entirety. When the water level sensor detects a lack of water in the aquaculture system connector, the gates can be closed in order to refill the connector. Computer control of these elements can be combined with additional water level sensors which detect water levels in different sections of the structure of the aquaculture system connector.

[0063] A non-limiting example method of transporting a fish may include opening the bleed valve to remove air from the lumen within the aquaculture system connector, pumping water through the pump into the tube in order to fill the lumen with water, closing the bleed valve, and allowing the fish to traverse the lumen from the first tank to the second tank. Many other methods of transporting a fish are possible and encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0064] A non-limiting example method of controlling movement of fish may involve actuating the first stopper to cause a first blockage within the lumen at the first end in the first tank, thereby preventing fish in the first tank from entering the lumen, actuating the second stopper to cause the second blockage within the lumen at the second end in the second tank, thereby preventing fish in the second tank from entering the lumen, and actuating the first stopper to remove the first blockage within the lumen at the first end, thereby allowing fish in the first tank to enter the lumen. Many other methods of controlling movement of fish are possible and encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0065] Certain embodiments of the devices and methods disclosed herein are defined in the above examples. It should be understood that these examples, while indicating particular embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only. From the above discussion and these examples, one skilled in the art can ascertain the essential characteristics of this disclosure, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications to adapt the devices and methods described herein to various usages and conditions. Various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the essential scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An aquaculture system comprising: a first tank; a second tank; and an aquaculture system connector providing a path of travel for an aquatic animal between the first tank and the second tank, the aquaculture system connector comprising a plurality of tubes defining a lumen and extending between a first end disposed in the first tank and a second end disposed in the second tank, and a pump in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to deliver air or water into to the lumen.

2. The aquaculture system of claim 1, further comprising a bleed valve in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to remove air from the lumen.

3. The aquaculture system of claim 2, wherein the bleed valve is connected at a highest point of the plurality of tubes.

4. The aquaculture system of claim 2, further comprising a stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause a blockage within the lumen, wherein the blockage is configured to prevent water from entering the lumen and configured to prevent the aquatic animal from traversing the lumen from the first tank to the second tank.

5. The aquaculture system of claim 4, wherein the blockage is a gate within the plurality of tubes.

6. The aquaculture system of claim 5, wherein the stopper is configured to open or close the gate within the plurality of tubes.

7. The aquaculture system of claim 1 , further comprising an adjustment member configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between two of the plurality of tubes.

8. The aquaculture system of claim 2, further comprising:a first stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause or remove a first blockage within the lumen at the first end; and a second stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause or remove a second blockage within the lumen at the second end.

9. The aquaculture system of claim 2, wherein: the bleed valve is connected at a highest point of the plurality of tubes; the aquaculture system further comprises a first stopper connected to the plurality of tubes at the first end and a second stopper connected to the plurality of tubes at the second end, wherein the first stopper and the second stopper are each configured to cause a blockage within the lumen; and the aquaculture system further comprises at least one adjustment member configured to rotate and thereby tighten or loosen a connection between two of the plurality of tubes.

10. The aquaculture system of claim 1, further comprising a first spacer disposed between one of the plurality of tubes and a first floor of the first tank.

11. The aquaculture system of claim 10, further comprising a second spacer disposed between another one of the plurality of tubes and a second floor of the second tank.

12. The aquaculture system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of tubes comprises 45-degree elbow tubes and straight tubes.

13. The aquaculture system of claim 1, further comprising a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen.

14. The aquaculture system of claim 1, further comprising a computer and a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen, wherein the water level sensor, the pump, and the bleed valve are communicatively coupled to the computer.

15. A method of transporting a fish in the aquaculture system of claim 2, the method comprising: opening the bleed valve to remove air from the lumen; pumping water through the pump into the lumen to fill the lumen with water; closing the bleed valve; andallowing the fish to traverse the lumen from the first tank to the second tank.

16. A method of controlling movement of fish in the aquaculture system of claim 8, the method comprising: actuating the first stopper to cause the first blockage within the lumen at the first end in the first tank, thereby preventing water in the first tank from entering the lumen and preventing fish in the first tank from entering the lumen; actuating the second stopper to cause the second blockage within the lumen at the second end in the second tank, thereby preventing water in the second tank from entering the lumen and preventing fish in the second tank from entering the lumen; and actuating the first stopper to remove the first blockage within the lumen at the first end, thereby allowing fish in the first tank to enter the lumen.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising actuating the first stopper while a fish is in the lumen to cause the first blockage within the lumen at the first end, thereby confining the fish to the lumen and preventing further fish in the first tank from entering the lumen.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising actuating the second stopper while the fish is in the lumen to remove the second blockage within the lumen at the second end, thereby allowing the fish to exit the lumen into the second tank.

19. An aquaculture system connector comprising: a plurality of tubes defining a lumen and extending between a first end and a second end; a pump in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to deliver air or water to the lumen; a bleed valve in fluid communication with the lumen and configured to remove air from the lumen, and a stopper connected to the plurality of tubes and configured to cause a blockage within the lumen.

20. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, further comprising an adjustment member configured to be rotated to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between two of the plurality of tubes.

21. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, wherein the plurality of tubes comprises 45-degree elbow tubes and straight tubes.

22. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, wherein the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the second tube is connected to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is connected to the third tube, the third tube is connected to the third elbow tube, the third elbow tube is connected to the fourth tube, the fourth tube is connected to the fourth elbow tube, and the fourth elbow tube is connected to the fifth tube.

23. The aquaculture system connector of claim 22, wherein the bleed valve is connected to the third tube.

24. The aquaculture system connector of claim 22, wherein the pump is connected to the second tube, and the aquaculture system connector further comprises a second pump connected to the fourth tube.

25. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, wherein the stopper comprises an actuator and a gate, wherein the gate is configured to be the blockage within the lumen.

26. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, wherein the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and wherein the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the second tube is connected to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is attached to the third tube, the third tube is disposed in the fourth tube, the fourth tube is attached to the third elbow tube, the third elbow tube is connected to the fifth tube, the fifth tube is connected to the fourth elbow tube, and the fifth elbow tube is connected to the sixth tube.

27. The aquaculture system connector of claim 26, wherein the fourth tube includes an adjustment member configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the fourth tube and the third tube.

28. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, wherein the plurality of tubes comprises afirst tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and wherein the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the third tube is disposed in the second tube, the third tube is attached to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is attached to the fourth tube, the fourth tube is connected to the fifth tube, the fifth tube is attached to the fourth elbow tube, and the fourth elbow tube is attached to the sixth tube.

29. The aquaculture system connector of claim 28, wherein the second tube includes an adjustment member configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a seal disposed between the second tube and the third tube.

30. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, wherein the plurality of tubes comprises a first tube, a second tube, a third tube, a fourth tube, a fifth tube, a sixth tube, a seventh tube, a first elbow tube, a second elbow tube, a third elbow tube, and a fourth elbow tube; and wherein the first tube is connected to the first elbow tube, the first elbow tube is connected to the second tube, the third tube is disposed in the second tube, the third tube is connected to the second elbow tube, the second elbow tube is connected to fourth tube, the fourth tube is connected to the third elbow tube, the third elbow tube is connected to the fifth tube, the sixth tube is disposed in the fifth tube, the sixth tube connected to the fourth elbow, and the fourth elbow connected to the seventh tube.

31. The aquaculture system connector of claim 30, wherein: the second tube includes a first adjustment member attached to the second tube that is configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a first seal disposed between the second tube and the third tube; and the fifth tube includes a second adjustment member connected to the fifth tube that is configured to rotate to loosen or tighten a second seal disposed between the fifth tube and the sixth tube.

32. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, further comprising a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen.

33. The aquaculture system connector of claim 19, further comprising a computer and a water level sensor configured to detect a water level within the lumen, wherein the water level sensor, the pump, and the bleed valve are communicatively coupled to the computer.

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