A system for a seaweed nursery

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for a seaweed nursery comprising one or more cultivation tubes configured to be rotated within the culture media by fluid-actuated means.

Description

[0001] A system for a seaweed nursery

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of algae production, and in particular to seaweed nurseries.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Seaweed nurseries that use tubes with various growth media wound around them offer a versatile approach to cultivating young seaweed plants. In these nurseries, tubes serve as structural support, while different growth media, such as ropes, mesh nets, biodegradable films, natural fibres, and textured plastic sheeting, are wrapped around the tubes to provide surfaces for spore attachment. This approach maximizes the surface area (i.e., the capacity) for young seaweed to settle and grow, while allowing nurseries to select specific substrates that best suit the growth requirements of different seaweed species.

[0006] Ropes are a common choice, as they are durable, easy to handle, and provide an ideal structure for spore or germling attachment. Other options, like fine mesh nets or fabric strips, offer a continuous surface area, making them suitable for seaweed species that thrive on a more uniform substrate. Biodegradable films, made from materials such as alginate or cellulose, provide an eco-friendly alternative that naturally degrades over time, reducing waste once the seaweed is transferred to open-water farms. Natural fibres like hemp or jute are also popular, as they are biodegradable and provide a textured surface that aids in spore adhesion. In areas where durability is essential, synthetic materials, such as coated nylon or polyethylene, may be used. These materials can be designed with specific coatings to enhance spore adhesion and withstand multiple cultivation cycles.In seaweed nurseries, the tubes wrapped with the chosen substrate are nurtured under controlled conditions to optimize light, temperature, and nutrient levels. Once the young seaweed has reached the appropriate size, the entire tube-and-substrate assembly can be transferred to open-water farms, where the seedlings continue to grow until harvest.

[0007] Nonuniform growth of seaweed seedlings on tubes in nurseries is a persistent challenge. When light is unevenly distributed, some parts of the tube may receive optimal light levels, while other areas experience light limitations or even shading, leading to variations in growth rates and plant health along the length of the tube. Especially in organic nurseries where alternative nutrient sources are used, the resulting colour of the water is an issue. Current solutions are: 1) to use small tubes with low diameter to minimize the shading side, 2) to ignore the problem and accept a decrease in the final yield, 3) to use glass aquaria with light from both sides leading to an increased light use per meter line, or 4) to install mechanical motors to turn spools during the nursery period. Another consideration is the flow around the tubes. Creating a sufficient flow in the nursery is crucial to create optimal conditions for light, CO2, and nutrient exchange for the seedlings and to scavenge / minimize fouling issues of e.g., diatoms.

[0008] JP2024167005 (A) discloses a marine forest forming structure comprising a peripheral material made of a braided material substantially in the shape of a cylinder having a laterally directed axis; a core material formed at the axis of the peripheral material to grow seaweeds and marine algae; and a ring material (retainer) retaining the peripheral material and the core material apart from each other.

[0009] Object of the Invention

[0010] The objective of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problem.Summary of the Invention

[0011] In the present context, a seaweed nursery is to be understood as the intermediate stage between a hatchery and full offshore cultivation. A seaweed hatchery is a controlled environment where the initial stages of seaweed life are carefully managed, and where spores or propagules are collected from mature seaweed. The spores or propagules are nurtured to develop into juvenile plants. Seedlings from the hatchery are transferred to the nursery for further growth. The present invention is primarily for use at seaweed nurseries but may also be used at some of the stages at a seaweed hatchery.

[0012] Seaweed requires a certain light intensity and quality (i.e., spectrum) to maximize photosynthesis. In a nursery setting, tubes with seaweed-wrapped substrates are often positioned close to one another to maximize space, which can inadvertently create shading as nearby tubes block or reflect light. Moreover, the shape and orientation of tubes in the water can impact on how light penetrates and how the flow conditions are within the tank. If light comes from only one direction, such as overhead lights in an indoor nursery, one side of the tube may receive significantly more light than the other, leading to asymmetrical growth. Furthermore, the flow within the tank may be unidirectional, thereby resulting in areas with non-optimal flow conditions around the tubes.

[0013] The inventor of the present invention has created a system of rotating cultivation tubes that help distribute light exposure more evenly around the surface, and where an ever-changing flow around the tubes are generated. This rotation exposes all sides of the tube to optimal light levels and flow conditions over time, promoting more uniform growth.

[0014] One aspect relates to a system for a seaweed hatchery or a seaweed nursery comprising:

[0015] - a tank holding a culture media, preferably predominantly comprising water;- one or more light sources, preferably positioned on, within, next to, and / or above said tank;

[0016] - one or more cultivation tubes positioned within the culture media of said tank, wherein each cultivation tube is adapted for being rotated within said culture media; and

[0017] - means adapted for rotating said cultivation tube(s) within said culture media; wherein the cultivation tube(s) are configured as fluid-actuated rotary tubes.

[0018] A second aspect relates to a cultivation tube adapted for being positioned within a culture media, wherein the cultivation tube is adapted to be rotated within said culture media, and wherein the cultivation tube comprises at least one fluid-actuated element configured to convert a fluid flow into rotational movement of the cultivation tube.

[0019] The invention is described in more detail in the following detailed description, including a preferred embodiment with reference to the figures.

[0020] Brief description of the figures

[0021] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a system for a seaweed nursery in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a light source in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a light source in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cultivation tube in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 5 is a bottom view of a cultivation tube in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a fluidic rotor in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a system for a seaweed nursery in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a nozzle system in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] References

[0029] 100 Cultivation tube

[0030] 110 Line

[0031] 120 Wall

[0032] 130 Lumen

[0033] 140 Fluidic rotor

[0034] 142 Vane

[0035] 150 Growth media

[0036] 210 Tank

[0037] 220 Light source

[0038] 222 Arrays of lights

[0039] 224 Elongate tubular housing

[0040] 225 Gas tube

[0041] 226 Tubular housing227 Free end of gas tube

[0042] 228 Cooling apparatus

[0043] 229 Air outlet

[0044] 230 Nozzle system

[0045] 232 Tubular outlet

[0046] 234 Ring

[0047] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0048] In the present context, the term “in general” when used when mentioning a feature relating to the present invention, it must be understood that the feature may be used with all embodiments of the invention, even if the mentioning is made in the detailed part of the document.

[0049] In general, the cultivation tube of the system is adapted for being rotated within the culture media. This rotation exposes all sides of the tube to optimal light levels over time, promoting more uniform growth. Furthermore, the inventor has found that the developing young seaweed plants grow faster when the cultivation tube is in motion, thereby minimizing the time needed for the young seaweed to stay at the nursery. This will increase the production capacity of the seaweed nursery.

[0050] There is a distinct difference between placing cultivation tubes vertically versus horizontally in seaweed nurseries, with each orientation providing unique advantages and limitations that affect growth conditions. Choosing an orientation depends on factors like space efficiency, light distribution, water flow, and the specific needs of the seaweed species being cultivated.

[0051] In a vertical placement, tubes allow for efficient use of space, accommodating a larger number of tubes in a compact area. This arrangement benefits from enhanced water flow dynamics, as water can more easily circulate around eachtube, delivering nutrients and gases uniformly to all parts of the tube, especially if there is steady flow from above or below. Vertical placement also benefits from overhead light penetration, as less surface area overlaps, allowing better light access overall. However, this setup can lead to shading, particularly on the lower sections of the tube, which may receive less light if illumination comes only from above. As a result, growth may be slower in these shaded areas, causing uneven development. Additionally, the lower parts of vertical tubes are more susceptible to sediment accumulation and biofouling in still or low-flow water conditions, as particles may settle near the bottom.

[0052] Horizontal tube placement, on the other hand, provides more consistent light exposure across the entire length of the tube. With lights placed on both sides, shading is minimized, encouraging more uniform growth. This orientation also simplifies rotation along the tube’s longitudinal axis, which further promotes even growth by distributing light and nutrients across all sides. Another benefit is the reduction in sediment accumulation; the larger surface area exposed to water flow helps prevent buildup and biofouling. However, horizontally placed tubes occupy a wider footprint, making it more challenging to maximize tube density in limited nursery space. Additionally, if water circulation is not optimized, the underside of horizontally placed tubes may experience slightly different water flow patterns, potentially affecting nutrient and gas distribution unevenly.

[0053] The optimal orientation for cultivation tubes also depends on the natural growth tendencies of different seaweed species and the specific layout of the nursery. For species that grow in a flat or horizontal plane, or where uniform growth is essential, horizontal placement may better mimic natural growth conditions. In space-limited facilities, vertical placement is often the preferred choice for maximizing the number of tubes. Some nurseries adopt a hybrid approach, positioning tubes at an angle or in both orientations, striking a balance between space efficiency and uniform light exposure.When the cultivation tubes according to the present invention are positioned horizontally, a portion of the tube’s outer surface is preferably equipped with shovels, paddles, blades, or similar protrusions designed to interact with an external fluid flow. These features convert the kinetic energy of the fluid into rotational motion, causing the tube to rotate around its longitudinal axis. The shovels or blades are carefully designed and angled to maximize the torque generated when the fluid flows over or against them. When a fluid stream is directed onto these protrusions, the force exerted by the moving fluid induces continuous rotation of the tube.

[0054] To facilitate this motion, the tube is preferably mounted on a support system with bearings or low-friction mounts at each end, allowing it to rotate smoothly while remaining stable in its horizontal position. This configuration ensures that the tube can operate efficiently without unnecessary friction or instability.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, the cultivation tube is adapted for being rotated along its longitudinal center axis.

[0056] Rotating the cultivation tube in ways other than along its longitudinal center axis is possible, although these methods can introduce practical challenges.

[0057] Alternative rotations could be beneficial in addressing specific growth needs or environmental conditions that standard rotations do not fully optimize.

[0058] One alternative is end-to-end rotation, where the tube is flipped 180 degrees periodically. This method repositions each end of the tube so that seaweed on either side experiences varying light, water flow, and nutrient exposure. End-to-end rotation could be particularly useful if one end of the tube consistently receives more favorable conditions than the other. However, implementing this type of rotation would require additional handling or an automated flipping mechanism, which can be more complex to manage than longitudinal rotation.Another approach involves tilted or oscillating rotation, where the tube moves between different angled positions, such as shifting from horizontal to diagonal. This periodic tilting would give all parts of the tube varied exposure to light and nutrients, while also simulating natural wave action found in open-water environments. Such oscillating movement could reduce localized shading and mitigate biofouling by periodically changing the tube’s exposure. While this method doesn’t involve a full rotation, it introduces enough movement to improve uniformity, particularly in indoor nurseries where fixed lighting might otherwise create uneven growth conditions.

[0059] A third approach could combine traditional longitudinal rotation with occasional shifts between horizontal and vertical orientations. By alternating these positions, each side of the tube gains access to different environmental conditions over time, allowing for more consistent growth and even exposure. This combined rotation method could improve light distribution in setups with multiple light sources, although it would require a more complex rotation system and extra space to avoid interference with neighboring tubes.

[0060] Although end-to-end flipping, oscillating tilts, or a mix of horizontal and vertical orientations are technically feasible, they typically necessitate custom-designed systems for reliable automation. For most nurseries, such alternative rotations would only be worthwhile if they significantly improve the uniformity and health of the seaweed or offer specific benefits for certain species or cultivation setups.

[0061] The cultivation tube is configured as a fluid-actuated rotary tube. A fluid-actuated rotary tube is a tubular structure designed to rotate around its longitudinal axis as a result of fluid flow directed through or around it. This rotation is achieved through an internal or external mechanism that converts the kinetic energy of the moving fluid, either liquid or gas, into rotational motion. This tube consists of a lumen, bounded by walls and open at both ends, designed to permit the passageof a fluid, such as gas or liquid, through the lumen from one open end to the other.

[0062] In one or more embodiments, the cultivation tube comprises a lumen defined by walls, is open-ended, and configured to allow fluid, such as gas or culture media, to pass through said lumen via the open ends.

[0063] One example of a fluid-actuated rotary tube, is where a fluidic rotor is mounted to the walls of the cultivation tube and specifically designed to transfer fluid-driven torque directly to the tube’s outer structure, causing the entire tube to rotate.

[0064] In one or more embodiments, a fluidic rotor is positioned within the lumen of the cultivation tube, and wherein said fluidic rotor is adapted to transfer fluid-driven torque directly to the tube’s outer structure, thereby causing the entire tube to rotate. Multiple fluidic rotors may be positioned within the lumen of the cultivation tube, e.g., one in the bottom part and one in the top part of the tube. The fluidic rotor may be configured as a snap-on solution, e.g., with the aid of integrated clips.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, the fluidic rotor comprises a helical vane or spiral channel formed in or mounted to the walls defining said lumen. E.g., the inner surface of the tube could comprise helical or spiral-shaped grooves or vanes that, when fluid flows through, generate torque along the axis of the tube. This torque would then rotate the entire tube. In principle, this embodiment would also be possible to integrate on the outer surface of the tube but is complicated by the continuing growth of the seaweed plants.

[0066] In one or more embodiments, the fluidic rotor comprises angled vanes, preferably being angled 10-60 degrees, such as 15-45 degrees, e.g., 30-40 degrees, relative to the tube’s longitudinal center axis. Angled vanes create a flow pattern as the fluid moves through the tube. When fluid flows against these angled surfaces, it exerts a force on the vanes that produce torque. This torqueis transferred to the tube walls, creating rotational movement. The angle and orientation of the vanes are critical to maximize torque. Vanes set at an optimal angle (typically between 30° and 60° relative to the tube’s axis, depending on fluid viscosity and flow rate) will generate the most efficient rotational force. The vanes might spiral slightly around the lumen to create continuous torque along the length of the tube, enhancing rotation. For the entire tube to rotate smoothly, the vanes should be spaced evenly around the inner wall and aligned in a consistent direction to ensure balanced torque across the tube. This arrangement helps avoid wobbling and maintains steady, controlled rotation as the fluid flows.

[0067] Similar to other fluidic mechanisms, the speed of the tube’s rotation can be controlled by adjusting the fluid flow rate and pressure. A higher flow rate will e.g. exert greater force on the angled vanes, increasing the rotational speed of the tube.

[0068] To facilitate free rotation, the tube should ideally be mounted on bearings or a low-friction support system, reducing resistance against the rotational movement caused by the fluid-driven mechanism.

[0069] In one or more embodiments, the cultivation tube further comprises a swivel or rotary coupling mechanism adapted for allowing the cultivation tube to be suspended in a line and keeping the line untwisted during rotation of the cultivation tube.

[0070] The cultivation tube may in some embodiments incorporate a swivel or rotary coupling mechanism designed to allow it to be suspended in-line while preventing twisting of the suspension line during the tube’s rotation. Examples of such constructs include a standard swivel joint, which enables the tube to rotate freely without transferring torque to the line. Another example is a rotary union or rotary coupling, which facilitates fluid transfer into the rotating tube while keepingthe suspension line stationary, ideal when fluids or air need to be fed directly into the tube without causing line entanglement.

[0071] A ball-bearing swivel mount is also effective; it supports both rotation and load bearing, making it suitable for suspending heavier tubes in a line. This type of mount minimizes friction, allowing smooth, unrestricted rotation. Additionally, specialized anti-twist swivel connectors are designed specifically to keep the suspension line from twisting, ensuring stable alignment of the line during rotation. Each of these mechanisms is selected based on load capacity, required rotational freedom, and any specific fluid transfer needs of the system.

[0072] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a system for a seaweed nursery according to the present invention. A tank 210 is shown with a centrally positioned light source 220, and six cultivation tubes 100 are shown rotating along their longitudinal centre axis. The number of cultivation tubes and light sources depend on the capacity of the tank. Arrows indicate the flow of fluid through each cultivation tube 100. Each cultivation tube 100 is suspended from a line 110.

[0073] In one or more embodiments, the one or more light sources are positioned above the tank, such that light is directed downwardly into the culture media. Overhead positioning of the light sources may be advantageous in indoor nursery environments, where ceiling-mounted or suspended luminaires provide uniform illumination across multiple cultivation tubes. In such embodiments, rotation of the cultivation tubes is particularly beneficial, as it compensates for directional lighting by ensuring substantially uniform light exposure around the circumference of each tube.

[0074] In an alternative embodiment of a seaweed hatchery system, the light source is positioned adjacent / next to the cultivation tank, rather than directly above it. In this configuration, light enters the tank laterally through its side walls, which are constructed from a light-transmissive material such as clear acrylic or temperedglass. This side-illumination design offers a distinct advantage for addressing nonuniform growth in systems where cultivation tubes are placed vertically or horizontally and where conventional overhead lighting may not evenly illuminate all surfaces.

[0075] By introducing light through the walls, the system ensures that the lateral surfaces of the cultivation tubes, particularly the sides that would otherwise be shaded, receive sufficient exposure to light, thus promoting more uniform photosynthetic activity and balanced seaweed development.

[0076] The lateral light source may consist of LED panels or fluorescent lamps placed along one or more sides of the tank, and can be designed to emit specific light spectra optimized for seaweed growth. In some cases, multiple side-mounted light sources may be used to ensure uniform distribution from opposing directions. The intensity, duration, and spectral composition of the lateral lighting can be finely controlled to match the physiological requirements of the particular seaweed species under cultivation.

[0077] This embodiment may be further enhanced by incorporating reflective surfaces on the interior walls of the tank opposite the light sources, thereby increasing light efficiency and minimizing energy loss. The combination of lateral lighting and controlled internal reflection creates a more evenly distributed light environment within the tank, reducing shadow zones and supporting more homogeneous growth across all surfaces of the cultivation tubes.

[0078] Overall, positioning the light source beside the tank and utilizing the lighttransmitting properties of the tank walls represents a practical and effective design variation that improves light distribution and enhances the uniformity of seaweed growth in controlled hatchery environments.In general, any light source may be used. Different macroalgae species may grow the best at different specific wavelengths. Such a wavelength will be covered within the wavelength range of 400-800 nm, preferably 500-700 nm. Hence, the light is distributed within the tank (bioreactor) via the one or more light sources.

[0079] In general, the light sources may preferably be turned on and off in cycles. The off period is to allow for re-oxidation of the electron transporters of the algae or underwater plants’ photosynthetic apparatus, while the on period provides all the energy necessary to support metabolism but, if present in excess, may lead to the formation of harmful reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. The off period could e.g., be 12 hours and the on period could e.g., be 12 hours. Other intervals may also be suitable, but it is speculated that the on and off periods should be at least 30-60 minutes and at most 20 hours, e.g., 1-18 hours, preferably 2-16 hours, and more preferably 3-12 hours in order to mimic natural conditions. The light intensity may also vary depending on the specific type of algae or underwater plant to be grown. Exemplary, but non-limiting, light intensities may e.g., be light intensities from 5 to 1000 pE nr2s-1.

[0080] A particularly preferred light source may be seen in Figures 2-3. The light source 220 comprises four plates (only one is visible) with arrays of lights 222, an elongate tubular housing 224 made from a material that is transparent, or at least partly transparent to the wavelength of the one or more arrays of lights 222, an elongate tubular support structure 226 positioned within the lumen of the housing 224 and configured as a support for the one or more arrays of lights 222, and a cooling apparatus 228 adapted for exchanging the air within the lumen of the housing 224.

[0081] Obviously, in general, the elongate housing 224 must be made from a material that is transparent or at least partly transparent to the wavelength of the used arrays of lights. By looking up commercially available wavelength absorptioncharts for a specific material, it is possible for the skilled person to identify the proper material for a given situation, and a material with as little absorption as possible in the given wavelength spectrum may be chosen. For many applications according to the present invention, a suitable material could, e.g., be polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, silicate glass, or the like. The reason for choosing an elongate housing is to cover the entire depth of the bioreactor, thereby providing an equal light treatment to the majority of the bioreactor’s lumen. Furthermore, the use of multiple devices also contributes to an optimal light distribution.

[0082] The cooling apparatus 228 is shown configured as an air fan unit adapted for exchanging the air within the lumen of the housing 224. This is performed by blowing air through the elongate tubular support structure 226, and out of air outlets 229 formed therein, thereby forcing air up and out of the open end of the housing 224. The shown tubular support structure 226 is made from aluminum (could e.g., also be made from cobber, or from alloys of aluminum and cobber) and functions as a heat sink for the heat generated from the multiple arrays of lights 222. In general, an ideal heat sink material exhibits high thermal conductivity, low coefficient of thermal expansion, low density, and low cost.

[0083] The light source 220 is preferably configured as a modular unit that allows components to be replaced or exchanged. The four plates (only one is visible) with arrays of lights 222 may each be releasably fastened to the support structure 226. The tubular support structure 226 may also be releasably fastened to the tubular housing 224.

[0084] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a similar light source 220 as the one shown in Figure 2. The lumen of the tubular housing 224 is provided with a gas tube 225 being part of a gasification unit. The gas tube has a first end connected to a gas supply (not shown) being part of the gasification unit, and a second free end 227. The free end 227 of the gas tube 225 exits a gas outlet at the bottom of thetubular housing 224 and into the bottom of the tank (not shown) to inject gas bubbles into the culture media held by the tank. Hence, in this embodiment, the gas outlet in the bottom of the tubular housing 224 is merely a hole allowing the free end 227 of the gas tube to exit through the walls of the housing 224.

[0085] Preferably, the free end 227 of the gas tube 225 is placed below a cultivation tube 100 or is branched out to be placed under multiple cultivation tubes 100. Multiple gas tubes may also or alternatively be implemented to provide gas for multiple cultivation tubes 100.

[0086] In general, to rotate the cultivation tubes 100 within the culture media using a fluid-driven mechanism, a nozzle system may be embedded in the tank floor and designed to direct a fluid (either gas or liquid) towards a fluidic impeller (e.g., vanes) integrated into or onto each cultivation tube 100, creating the necessary torque to rotate the tube. A fluid delivery nozzle, whether a gas or liquid jet, directs a controlled flow of fluid (such as air, water, or culture media) into the lumen of each cultivation tube. This nozzle is preferably positioned near or at the entrance of the tube, aimed at maximizing contact with the impeller mechanism inside or outside the tube.

[0087] The nozzle is preferably angled precisely to direct the flow in a manner that aligns with the design of the fluidic impeller (such as angled or helical vanes). The angle is critical, as it ensures that the incoming fluid stream effectively engages the impeller, creating sufficient torque to rotate the tube.

[0088] The nozzle can e.g., be positioned slightly off-center or at an angle that corresponds to the orientation of the internal vanes, directing the flow in a spiraling or tangential path along the inner wall of the tube to maximize rotational force.

[0089] In applications where air or gas is used, a jet nozzle would inject air into the tube, creating a high-velocity stream that acts on the fluidic impeller. This approach issuitable when the setup is underwater but isolated from direct water flow into the tube. Alternatively, a water jet nozzle could be used if direct contact with water or culture media is preferred. Water or culture media injected into the tube would drive the impeller with greater force than air due to its higher density, generating stronger torque and thus a more substantial rotational effect.

[0090] To control the speed of rotation, the fluid delivery nozzle would be connected to an adjustable flow control valve and pressure regulator. By increasing or decreasing the flow rate and pressure of the gas or liquid, the rotational speed of the tube can be finely tuned. This feature allows for controlled, variable rotation depending on the specific requirements of the cultivation process.

[0091] One exemplary nozzle system 230 (see also Figures 7 and 8) may be described as a radial fluid distribution manifold or a ring-shaped manifold with vertical outlets, designed to evenly distribute fluid to multiple points, preferably one point below each cultivation tube. It may, e.g., comprise a closed circular ring 234 that serves as the primary conduit for fluid flow. From this ring 234, multiple tubular outlets 232 extend vertically upwards and are evenly spaced along the circumference. This symmetrical arrangement ensures that fluid is delivered uniformly to all outlets, making it suitable for applications where consistent distribution is essential, and where the cultivation tubes are arranged in the same way. In the embodiment shown, the tubular outlets 232 extend vertically upwards and through a central channel in the fluidic rotor 140 (see the central channel in Figure 6). Hence, the delivered fluid does not itself act on the fluidic rotor’s vanes 142. Rather, the flow generates a reduced pressure on the delivery side of the fluidic rotor, thereby forcing the growth media to pass through the fluidic rotor and thereby act on the vanes 142. In general, the tubular outlet may serve as support for the cultivation tube, e.g., configured such that the cultivation tube can rotate around it. Here, a central channel in the fluidic rotor may be present for the tubular outlet to fit into.A key feature of this manifold is its inlet configuration, which is engineered to promote equal fluid distribution throughout the ring. Depending on the specific application requirements, the inlet may be designed in various ways, such as a tangential entry point for inducing a balanced flow, an axial entry for a central distribution approach, or multiple inlet points for systems requiring redundancy or enhanced uniformity. Additionally, internal flow-balancing mechanisms, such as baffles or flow restrictors, may be integrated into the design to mitigate pressure imbalances and ensure that the flow rate to each tubular outlet remains consistent.

[0092] The circular geometry of the manifold plays a crucial role in achieving uniform distribution, why the cultivation tubes also need to be arranged in the same way. By eliminating sharp corners or uneven flow paths, the ring design minimizes pressure drops and flow inconsistencies, even under varying operational conditions. The tubular outlets, extending vertically from the ring, allow the fluid to be efficiently delivered to specific locations.

[0093] In one or more embodiments, the cultivation tube(s) are configured as fluid-actuated rotary tubes, and wherein said means adapted for rotating said cultivation tube(s) within said culture media comprises a nozzle system designed to direct a fluid (either gas or liquid) towards an internal fluidic impeller integrated into the cultivation tube.

[0094] Figures 4 and 5 show a preferred embodiment of a cultivation tube 100 in accordance with the present invention. Here, a rope is used for the growth media 150. As said, ropes are a common choice, as they are durable, easy to handle, and provide an ideal structure for spore attachment. Other options, like fine mesh nets or fabric strips, offer a continuous surface area, making them suitable for seaweed species that thrive on a more uniform substrate. Biodegradable films, made from materials such as alginate or cellulose, provide an eco-friendly alternative that naturally degrades over time, reducing waste once the seaweedis transferred to open-water farms. Natural fibres like hemp or jute are also popular, as they are biodegradable and provide a textured surface that aids in spore adhesion.

[0095] As used herein, the term “fluidic impeller” is to be understood as a generic term referring to any fluid-driven element capable of converting a fluid flow into rotational movement of the cultivation tube. A “fluidic rotor” is one example of such a fluidic impeller and represents a specific embodiment thereof. Other configurations of fluidic impellers may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0096] In this specific embodiment, the fluidic impeller is configured as a fluidic rotor 140 comprising four angled vanes 142. In general, the number of vanes may vary.

[0097] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" one particular value and / or to "about" or "approximately" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about", it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment.

[0098] It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present invention also apply to the other aspects of the invention.

Claims

Claims1. A system for a seaweed hatchery or seaweed nursery comprising:- a tank (210) holding a culture media, preferably predominantly comprising water;- one or more light sources (220), preferably positioned on, within, next to, and / or above said tank (210);- one or more cultivation tubes (100) positioned within the culture media of said tank (210), wherein each cultivation tube (100) is adapted for being rotated within said culture media; and- means adapted for rotating said cultivation tube(s) (100) within said culture media;wherein the cultivation tube(s) (100) are configured as fluid-actuated rotary tubes.

2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said means adapted for rotating said cultivation tube(s) within said culture media comprises a nozzle system designed to direct a fluid towards an internal fluidic impeller integrated into the cultivation tube.

3. The system according to any one of the claims 1-2, wherein the cultivation tube (100) is adapted for being rotated along its longitudinal center axis.

4. The system according to any one of the claims 1-3, wherein the cultivation tube (100) comprises a tube part with a lumen (130) defined by walls (120), is open-ended, and configured to allow fluid, such as gas or culture media, to pass through said lumen (130) via the open ends.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein a fluidic rotor (140) is positioned within said lumen (130), wherein said fluidic rotor (140) is adapted to transfer fluid-driven torque directly to the tube part, thereby causing the entire tube part to rotate.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the fluidic rotor (140) comprises a helical vane or spiral channel formed in or mounted to the walls defining said lumen.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein the fluidic rotor (140) comprises angled vanes, preferably being angled 10-60 degrees relative to the tube’s longitudinal center axis.

8. The system according to any one of the claims 1-7, wherein the cultivation tube (100) further comprises a swivel or rotary coupling mechanism adapted for allowing the cultivation tube to be suspended in a line and keeping the line untwisted during rotation of the cultivation tube.

9. The system according to any one of the claims 1-8, wherein at least one of said light sources (220) is positioned above the tank (210).

10. A cultivation tube (100) adapted for being positioned within a culture media, wherein the cultivation tube (100) is adapted to be rotated within said culture media, and wherein the cultivation tube (100) comprises at least one fluid-actuated element configured to convert a fluid flow into rotational movement of the cultivation tube.

11. The cultivation tube (100) according to claim 10, wherein the cultivation tube (100) is adapted for being rotated along its longitudinal center axis.

12. The cultivation tube (100) according to any one of the claims 10-11, wherein the cultivation tube (100) comprises a tube part with a lumen (130) defined by walls (120), is open-ended, and configured to allow fluid, such as gas or culture media, to pass through said lumen (130) via the open ends.

13. The cultivation tube (100) according to claim 12, wherein a fluidic rotor (140) is positioned within said lumen (130), wherein said fluidic rotor (140) is adapted to transfer fluid-driven torque directly to the tube part, thereby causing the entire tube part to rotate.

14. The cultivation tube (100) according to claim 13, wherein the fluidic rotor (140) comprises a helical vane or spiral channel formed in or mounted to the walls defining said lumen.

15. The cultivation tube (100) according to claim 13, wherein the fluidic rotor (140) comprises angled vanes, preferably being angled 10-60 degrees relative to the tube’s longitudinal center axis.

16. The cultivation tube (100) according to any one of the claims 10-15, wherein the cultivation tube (100) further comprises a swivel or rotary coupling mechanism adapted for allowing the cultivation tube to be suspended in a line and keeping the line untwisted during rotation of the cultivation tube.

17. The cultivation tube (100) according to any one of the claims 10-16, wherein the fluid-actuated element is arranged inside the lumen of the cultivation tube.

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