Javidpour, Jamileh, Schwarz, Ralf, Gueroun, Sonia K.M., Andrade, Carlos A.P. and Canning-Clode, João (2024) Innovative aquaculture cage “Flow2Vortex” ensures a sustainable biomass delivery for low trophic level aquaculture. Aquacultural Engineering, 104 . Art.Nr. 102390. DOI 10.1016/j.aquaeng.2024.102390.

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Abstract

The increasing global demand for seafood, coupled with the limitations of current fish stocks and aquaculture practices, requires the development of sustainable aquaculture solutions. In this context, this study explores the potential of a novel cage technology - Flow2Vortex - for the cultivation of jellyfish, a low-trophic-level organism with increasing market demand. The unique cage design creates a laminar and circular water flow, providing optimal conditions for cultivating fragile planktonic species. Indoor experiments demonstrated the successful growth of jellyfish in the cage, with growth rates of up to 11.6% per day. In addition, field tests in open waters confirmed the cage's ability to maintain a diffuse and controlled flow inside, even under strong external currents. The cage also maintained significantly higher zooplankton concentrations than the surrounding environment, offering a consistent food source for the cultivated jellyfish. These findings highlight the potential of the Flow2Vortex cage for scalable indoor and outdoor cultivation of low-trophic-level organisms, such as jellyfish, contributing to the diversification and sustainability of aquaculture practices.

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