AQUACULTUR E DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD

FIELD

[001 ] THIS INVENTION described herein relates generally to an aquaculture device, system and method as well as conditioning and transportation devices, systems and methods for an aquaculture product. In particular, the invention is directed to an aquaculture device, system and method in which a novel conditioning composition is used, although the scope of the invention is not necessarily limited thereto.

BACKGROUND

[002] Natural light has been scientifically proven to control the maturation and development of man species of fish and seafood. It is a key en vironmental factor that synchronizes all stages of many species development, from embryonic growth to maturation.

[003] The con trol of artificial light, or photoperiod manipulation, is widely used in the global aquaculture industry to increase the growth rates, and control the physical and sexual maturation of many farmed species .

[004] Although photoperiod manipulation is being used extensively, it is scientifically proven that in its usual forms of use in the global aquaculture industry, optimal results are not achieved. The use of metal haiide lights and "normal" off the shelf LED lights is the industry norm for photoperiod manipulation. Metal haiide lights cannot deliver the cost efficient, humane, or actual outcomes required by the industry.

[005] Live transport of fish and other aquaculture products requires large volumes of water which adds to cost and is cumbersome.

[006] improved methods of aquaculture and conditioning for transport are required.

SUMMARY

[007] The present invention is broadly directed to an aquaculture device, system and method as well as conditioning compositions,, conditioning devices and transportation devices, systems and methods for an aquaculture product.

[008] A preferred advantage of the device, system and method is that the required amount of light is always provided. [009] Another preferred advantage of the device, system and method of the invention is that the conditions for transport may be controlled so that the aquaculture product arrives in the best condition.

[0010] The lighting of the invention allows the optimal growth and development of an aquacu!ture species.

[0011] in one aspect, although not necessarily the broadest aspect, there is provided an aquaculture device comprising:

a holding tank for holding the species subject of aquaculture;

one or more LED light illuminating the holding tank and emitting light at 480 to 550 nm wavelength and 5.5 to 10 micro watt/cm ^* intensity; and

a power supply for providing power to the LED light.

[0012] In a second aspect there is provided a system for aquaculture comprising:

a holding tank in which the species subject of the aquaculture is held;

one or more LED light illuminating the holding tank and emitting light at 480 to 550 nm wavelength and 5,5 to 10 microwatt/cm ² intensity; and

a power supply providing power to the one or more LED light.

[0013] in a third aspect there is provided a method for aquaculture comprising:

holding the species subject of aquaculture in a holding tank; and

exposing the species in the holding tank to light of 480 to 550 nm wavelength and 5.5 to 10 microwatt/cm ² intensity emitting from one or more LED light.

[0014] in one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the wavelength and'or intensity is selected to be as appropriate for the species subject of aquaculture.

[00.15] In another embodi men t of any one of the first to third aspects, the wa velength and/or intensity is selected to be as appropriate for the stage of the species subject of aquaculture.

[0016] In yet another embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the wavelength and'or intensity is selected to be as appropriate for the advanced growth of the species subject of aquaculture,

[0 17] in one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the wavelength and/or intensity is selected to be as appropriate for the prevention of maturation of the species subject of aquaculture.

[0018] in one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the species subject of aquaculture may be any type offish, crustacean, mollusc and/ or plant.

[0019] In one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the wavelength is 480, 85, 490, 495, 500, 505, 510, 515, 520, 525, 530, 535, 540, 545 or 550 am,

[0020] in one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the intensity is 5,5, 6.0, 6,5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5 or 10 micro watt/cm ² .

[0021 ] in one embodiment of any one of the In st to third aspects, the one or more LED ligh ts comprises I to 10 LED lights, in one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspect the one or more LED lights comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 o 10 LED lights.

[0022] in one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the one or more LED lights comprises 6 LED lights.

[0023] In one embodiment of any one of the first to third aspects, the LED lights -will be controlled by a computer system.

[0024] The computer system according to any of the first to third aspects may receive one or more input comprising an aqiiaciilture factor and alter the light emitted from the one or more LED light based on the recei ed one or more aquaculture factor.

[0025] The one or more aqtiaeulture factor may comprise one or more of light wavelength, light intensity, oxygen concentration, nitrate concentration and nitrite concentration, ammonia concentration, H, water hardness, carbonate hardness, salt concentration, C<¾. concentration, species subject of aquaculture size, species subject of aquaculture growth rate and/or electrolyte concentration.

[0026] In one .embodiment of the first to third aspects, the computer is preprogrammed with a desired wavelength and/or intensity for a variety of aquaculture products.

[0027] The one or more aquaculture factor may be provided continually as feedback to the computer system.

[0028] The altering of the light emitted may include wavelength and/or intensity,

[0029] in one embodiment of the first to third aspects the computer system may receive a value of one or more aquaculture factor; determine from the received aquaculture factor if the light emitted should be altered; when the determination provides that the light emitted should be altered then altering the light emitted; and delive emitted light altered in accordance with the determination.

[0030] The one or more aquaculture factor may be input by a user.

[0031] The one or more aquacultnre factor ma be received from an input device.

[0032] The input device may comprise one or more sensor ,

[0033] The one or more sensor ma comprise one or more of a light sensor, oxyge probe, nitrate meter, nitrite meter, ammonia meter, C02 meter, or pH meter.

[0034] in a fourth aspect there is provided a conditioning composition for conditioning a species subject of aquacultnre comprising: a buffer; a carbonate buffer; a salt; and an electrolyte.

[0035] The buffer may comprise TRiS (tris(hydroxyniethyl.)ai ^' nmomefhane).

[0036] The carbonate buffer may comprise sodium bicarbonate (bicarbonate of soda).

[0037] The salt may comprise one or more of aragonite salts, magnesium sulfate (Epson salt) and/or sodium chloride (kosher salt).

[0038] The electrolyte may comprise one or more of magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate and/or hydrogen carbonate.

[0039] in a fifth aspect there is provided an aquaculture product conditioning device comprising:

a holding unit for holding a aquaculture product;

a cartridge comprising the conditioning composition of the fourth aspect; and a computer for controlling the temperature of the holding unit and for controlling a dosing of the holding unit with the conditioning composition of the fourth aspect.

[0040] In a sixth aspect there is provided an aquaculture product conditioning system comprising:

a holding unit for holding an aquaculture product;

a cartridge comprising the conditioning composition of the fourth aspect; and a computer for control ling the temperature of the holding uni t and for controlling a dosing of the holding unit with the conditioning composition. [0041 ] In a seventh aspect, there is provided an aquaculture product conditioning method, the method including;

holding an aquaculture product in a holding unit;

controlling the temperature of the holding unit and the dosing of the hoi ding unit with the conditioning composition of the fourth aspect with, a computer; and

when the controlling step determines that dosing is required, dosing the holding unit with a controlled dose of the conditioning composition of the fourth aspect.

[0042] in one embodiment of any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, the temperature and/or dosing is selected to be as appropriate for transport of the aquaculture product.

[0043] in one embodiment of any one of tlie fifth to seventh aspects, the temperature and'or dosing is selected to be as appropriate for the stress level of the aquaculture product.

[0044] In one embodiment of any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, the computer is preprogrammed with desired aquaculture factors for a variety of aquaculture products. Through simply typing in the name, and weight, of the subject species, and pressing the start button the fully automated conditionin process begins.

[0045] in one embodiment of any one of the fifth to seventh aspect s , tlie aquacu lture product may be any type of fish, crustacean, mollusc and'or plant,

[0046] in one embodiment of any one of the fifth to seventh aspects, the computer may receive one or more input comprising an aquaculture factor and alter the temperature and ^' or dosing based on the received one or more aquaculture factor.

[0047] The one or more aquaculture factor may comprise one or more of oxygen concentration, rate of water filtering; type of water filtering, nitrate concentration and nitrite concentration, ammonia concentration, pH, water hardness, carbonate hardness, CO? concentration, salt concentration, aquaculture product size, aquaculture product growth rate and'or electrolyte concentration,

[0048] The one or more aquaculture factor may be provided continually as feedback to the computer system.

In one embodiment the computer system may receive a value of one or more aquaculture factor; determine from the received aquaculture factor if the temperature, dosing and'or aquaculture factor should be altered; when the determination provides that the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor should be altered then altering the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor; and deliver dosing, altered temperature or altered aquaculture factor in accordance with the determination,

[0049] The one or more aquaculture factor may be received from an input device.

[0050] The one or more aquaculture factor ma be input by a user.

[0051] The input device may comprise one or more sensor ,

[0052] The one or more sensor may comprise one or more light sensor, oxyge probe, nitrate meter, nitrite meter, ammonia meter, or pH meter.

[0053] According to any one of embodiments five to seven, die computer may further comprise a touch panel.

[0054] According to any one of embodiments five to seven, the holding unit may further comprise a condenser and/or refrigeration unit.

[0055] According to any one of embodiments five to seven, the condenser and/or refrigeration unit may be controlled by ^' the computer.

[0056] Accordmg to any one of embodiments five to seven, one or more of the following may be further comprised: a filter for ^' filtering the solution in the holding tank; an oxygen tank for providing oxygen to the holding tank; a defraetioner for removing protein scum; a heat exchange header tank for controlling the temperature; and one or more chemical tank for storing chemicals to alter the one or more aquaculture factor.

[0057] In a eighth aspect, there is provided an aquaculture product transportation device comprising:

a cartridge comprising the conditionin composition of the fourth aspect, the cartridge connectable to a transport tank for an aquaculture product; and

a computer for controlling a dosing of the ^■ transport tank with the conditioning composition.

[0058] In a ninth aspect there is provided an aquaculture product transportation system comprising:

a cartridge comprising the conditioning composition of the fourth aspect., the cartridge connectable to a transport tank for an aquaculture product: and a computer for controlling a dosing of the transport tank with the conditioning composition.

[0059] In a tenth aspect there is provided an aquaculture product transportation method, the method including:

holding an aquaculture product in a transport tank;

when required dosing the transport tank with a controlled dose of the conditioning composition of the fourt aspect; and

controlling the dosing of the holding unit wit the conditioning composition with a computer.

[0060] hi one embodiment of any one of the eight to tenth aspects, the dosing is selected to be as appropriate for transport of the aquaculture product.

[00 1 ] in one embodiment of any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the dosing is selected to be as appropriate for the stress level of the aquaculture product,

[0062] In one embodiment of any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the computer is preprogrammed with desired aquaculture factors for a variety of aquaculture products. Through simply typing in the name, and weight, of the subject species, and pressing the start button the fully automated conditioning process begins.

[0063] In one embodiment of any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the aquaculture product may be any type of fish, crustacean, mollusc and/or plant.

[0064] hi one embodiment of an one of the eighth to tent aspects, the computer may receive one or more input comprising an aquaculture factor and alter the temperature and/or dosing based on the received one or more aquaculture factor.

[0065] The one or more aquaculture factor may comprise one or more of oxygen concentration, rate of water filtering; type of water filtering, nitrate concentration and nitrite concentration, ammonia concentration, p£L water hardness, carbonate hardness, salt concentration, COj concentration, aquaculture product size, aquaculture product growth rate and/or electrolyte concentration.

[0066] The one or more aquaculture factor may be a reading in the transport tank and/or in the destination of the aquaculture product. [0067] The one or more aquaculture factor may be provided continually as feedback to the computer system.

[0068] In one embodiment the computer system may receive a value of one or more aquaculture factor;

determine from the received aquaculture factor if the temperature, dosing and/or aquaculture factor should be altered;

when the determination provides that the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor should be altered then altering the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor;

delivering dosing, altered temperature or altered aquaculture factor in accordance with the detennination,

[0069] The one or more aquaculture factor may be received from one or more input device.

[0070] The one or more aquaculture factor may be input by a user,

[0071 ] The one or more input device may comprise one or more sensor.

[0072] The one or more sensor may comprise one or more light sensor, oxygen probe, nitrate meter, nitrite meter, ammonia meter, C ⁽ ¼ meter or pH meter.

[0073] The one or more sensor may be in the transport tank or destination.

[0074] According to any one of embodiments eight to ten, the computer may turther comprise a touch panel.

[0075] According to any one of embodiments eight to ten, the transport tank may further comprise a condenser and/or refrigeration unit.

[0076] According to any one of embodiments eight to ten, the condenser and/or refrigeration unit may be controlled by the computer.

[0077] According to any one of embodiments eight to ten, one or more of the following may be further comprised; a filter for filtering the solution in the holding tank, an oxygen tank for providing oxygen to the holding tank; a deftactioner for removing protein scum; a heat exchange header tank for controlling the temperature; and one or more chemical tank for storing chemicals to alter the one or more aquaculture factor.

[0078] According to any one of the above embodiments the CC½ level may comprise less than 15 n g/i; less than 10 mg/1; or less than 5 rng/l. [0079] According to any one of the above embodiments, the salinity for smolts may comprise less than 35 parts per thousand (ppt); less than 30 ppt; less than 25 ppt; less than 10 ppt; less than 2 ppt; or less than 1 ppt,

[0080] According to any one of the above embodiments temperature changes do not exceed 0.5° per hour.

[0081 ] Any one of the above embodiments ma be implemented by a computer program. Such a computer program may e stored on any computer readable medium,

[0082] The invention also provides a computer usable medium and computer readable program code embodied on said computer usable medium for displaying data, the computer readable code comprising:

computer readable program code de ices (i) configured to cause the computer to perform the steps of any one of the third, seventh or tenth embodiments.

[0083] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field.

[0084] As used herein, except where the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" and variations of the term., such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude further additives, components, integers or steps.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0085] I order that the present invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to the accompanying illustrations, wherein like reference numerals refer to like features and wherein:

[0086] FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of an aquacuiture device according to the invention.

[0087] FIG. 2 A shows one embodiment of a computer system according to the invention.

[0088] FIG. 2B shows one embodiment of a computer processor according to the invention.

[0089] FIGS. 3 A, 3B, 3C and 3D show various views of one embodiment of a conditioning unit according to the invention;

[0090] FIGS. 4 A and 4B show embodiments of a unit for conditioning an aquacuiture product according to the invention; [0091] FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of a transportation device according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] The inventor has produced a novel and inventive aquaculture device, method and system. The inventor has also produced a novel and inventive aquaculture product conditioning device, method and system along with a novel and inventive transportation device, system and method.

[0093] As exemplified herein, the aquaculture device, system and method makes use of novel and inventive LED light wavelength and intensity. Surprisingly, as exemplified herein the inventors have discovered that by providing LED light 0080-550 nrn wavelength and 5.5- 10 microwatt/cm. ^'2 intensity, improved aquaculture results are obtained.

[0094] The conditioning device, system and method make use of an improved conditioning composition for conditioning the aquaculture product. Surprisingly, as exemplified herein the inventors have discovered that by providing a conditioning compositio comprising a buffer; a carbonate buffer; a salt; and an electrolyte the condition of the aquaculture product can be controlled so the product arrives in the best possible condition.

[0095] The species subject of aquaculture or the aquaculture product ma be any fish, seafood or marine species or any combination. The fish may be any type of finned fish, any type of crastaceans, any type of mollusc, any type of bivaives. In another embodiment the aquaculture product may be a reptile such as a lizard.

[0096] in one particular embodiment, the species subject of aquaculture or the aquaculture product may comprise a salmon.

[0097] The intensity of the light may be in adiance, which is the power of electromagnetic radiation per unit area (radiative flux) incident, on a surface.

[0098] Some portions of the description which follows are explicitly or implicitly presented in terms of algori thms and functional or symbolic representations of operations on data within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and functional or symbolic representations are the means used by those skilled in the dat processing arts to convey most effectively the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities, such as electrical, magnetic or optica! signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated.

[0099] Unless specifically stated otherwise, and as apparent from the following, it will be appreciated that throughout the present specification, discussions utilizing terms such as "scanning'', "calculating", "determining", "replacing", "generating", "initializing", "outputting", or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical quantities within the computer system into other data similarly represented as physi cal quanti ties wi thin the compute system, or other information storage, transmission or display devices.

[00100] The present specification also discloses apparatus for performing the operations of the methods. Such apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes or may comprise a general purpose computer or other device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer.

[00101] The algorithms and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general purpose machines may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein. Alternatively, the construction of more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps may be appropriate. The structure of a conventional general purpose computer will appear from the description below.

[00102] In addition, the present specification also implicitly discloses a computer program, in that it would be apparent to the perso skilled in the art that the individual steps of the method described herei n may be put into effect by computer code. The computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular programming language and implementation thereof. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages and coding thereof may be used to implement the teachings of the disclosure contained herein. Moreover, the computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular control flow. There are many other variants of the computer program, which can use different control flows without departing from the spirit o scope of the invention.

[00103] Furthermore., one or more of the steps of the computer program may be performed in parallel rather than sequentially. Such a computer program may be stored on any computer readable medium. The computer readable medium may include storage devices such as magnetic or optical disks, memory chips, or other storage devices suitable for interfacing with a general purpose computer. The computer readable medium may also include a hardwired medium such as exemplified in the Internet system, or wireless medium such as exemplified in the GSM mobile telephone system. The computer program when loaded and executed on such a general-purpose compute effectively results in an apparatus that implements die steps of the preferred method.

[00104] The devices, methods and systems of the example embodiments can be implemented on the computer control system 200 shown in. FIG. 2.A. Computer control system 200 is formed by a computer module 201 , input devices such as a keyboard 202, a mouse pointer device 203, a scanner 226, a camera 227, and a microphone 280, and output devices includin a printer 215, a display device 214 and loudspeakers 217. An external Modulator- Demodulator (Modem) transceiver device 216 may be used by the computer module 201 for communicating to and from a communications network 220 via a connection 221. The network 220 may be a wide-area network (WAN), such as the Internet or a private WAN. Where the connection 221 is a telephone line, the modem 216 may be a traditional "dial- up" modem. Alternatively, where the connection 221 is a high capacity (eg: cable) connection, the modem 216 may be a broadband modem. A wireless modem may also be used for wireless connection to the network 220.

[00105] The compute module 201 typically includes at least one processor unit 205, and a memory unit 206 for example formed from semiconductor random access memory (RAM) and semiconductor read only memory (ROM). The module 201 also includes an number of in ut/output (I/O) interfaces including an audio- video i nterface 207 that couples to the video display 214, loudspeakers 217 and microphone 280, an I/O interface 213 for the keyboard 202, mouse 203, scanner 226, camera 227 and optionally a joystick (not illustrated), and an interface 208 for the external modem 216 and printer 215. In some implementations,, the modem 2.1.6 may be incorporated within the computer module 201 , for example within the interface 208. The computer module 201 also has a local network interface 21 1 which, via a connection 223, permits coupling of the computer control system 200 to a local computer network 222, known as a Local Area Network (LAN). As also illustrated, the local network 222 may also couple to the wide network 220 via a connection 224, which would typically include a so-called "firewall" device or device of similar functionality. The interface 211 may be formed by an Ethernet circuit card, a Bluetooth wireless arrangement or an IEEE 802.1 1 wireless arrangement.

[00106] The interfaces 208 and 213 may afford either or both of serial and parallel connectivity- the former typically being implemented according to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standards and having corresponding USB connectors (not illustrated). Storage devices 209 are provided and typically include a hard disk drive (HDD) 210. Other storage devices suc as a floppy disk drive and a magnetic tape drive (not illustrated) may also be used. An optical disk drive 212 is typically provided to act as a non-volatile source of data. Portable memory devices, such optical disks (eg: CD-ROM, DVD), USB-RAM, and floppy disks for example may then be used as appropriate sources of data to the system 200.

[00107] The components 205 to 213 of the computer module 201 typically communicate via an interconnected bus 204 and in a manner which results in a conventional mode of operation of the computer control system 200 known to those in the relevant art. In tire embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, processor 205 is coupled to system bus 204 through connection 21 8. Similarly, memory 206 and optical disk drive 21.2 are coupled to the system bus 204 by connection 219. Examples of computers on which the described arrangements can be practised include IBM-PC's and compatibles, Sun Sparc-stations, Apple Mac or alike computer systems evolved therefrom.

[00108] The methods of the invention may be implemented using the computer control system 200 and may be implemented as one or more software application programs 233 executable within the computer control system 200. in particular, the steps of the metliod s are effected by instructions 231 in the software that are carried out within the computer control system 200. The software instructions 231 may be formed as one or more code modules, each for performing one or more particular tasks. The software may also be divided into two separate parts, in which a first part and the corresponding code modules performs the methods and a second part and the corresponding code modules manage a graphical user interface between the first part and the user.

[00109] The software may be stored in a computer readable medium, including the storage devices described below, for example. The software is loaded into the computer control system 200 from the computer readable medium, and then executed by the computer control system 200. A computer readable medium having such software or computer program rec orded on it is a c omputer program product. The use of the computer program product in die computer control system 200 preferably effects an advantageous apparatus for implementing the method.

[001 10 The software 233 is typically stored in the HDD 210 or the memory 206. The software is loaded into the computer control system 200 from a computer readable medium, and then executed by the computer control system 200. Thus for example the software may be stored o an optically readable CD-ROM medium 225 that is read by the optical disk drive 21.2. A computer readable medium having such software or computer program recorded on it i s a computer program product. The use of the computer program product in the computer control system 200 preferably effects an advantageous apparatus for implementing the methods of the invention. In. some instances, the application programs 233 may be supplied to the user encoded on one or more CD-ROM 225 and read via the corresponding drive 212, or alternatively may be read by the user from the networks 220 or 222. Still further, the software can also be loaded into the computer control system 200 from other computer readable media. Computer readable storage media refers to any storage medium that participates in providing instructions and/or data to the computer control system 200 for execution and/or processing. Examples of such storage media include floppy disks, magnetic tape, CD- ROM, a hard disk drive, a ROM or integrated circuit, USB memory, a magneto-optical disk, or a computer readable card such as a PCMCIA card and the like, whether or not such devices are internal or ex ternal of the computer module 201. Examples of computer readable transmission media that may also participate in the provisio of software, application programs, instructions and or data to the computer module 201 include radio or infra-red transmission channels as well as a network connection to another computer or networked device, and the Internet or Intranets including e-mail transmissions and information recorded on Websites and the like.

[001 1 1] The second part of the application programs 233 and the corresponding code modules mentioned above may be executed to implement one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to be rendered or otherwise represented upon the display 214. Through manipulation of typi cally the keyboard 202 and the mouse 203 , a user of the computer control system 200 and the application may manipulate the interface in a functionally adaptable manner to provide controlling commands and/or input to the applications associated with the GUI(s). Other forms of functionally adaptable user interfaces may also be implemented, such as an audio interface utilizing speech prompts output via the loudspeakers 217 and user voice commands input via the microphone 280.

[00112] Fig. 2B is a detailed schematic block diagram of the processor 205 and a "memory" 234. The memory 234 represents a logical aggregation of all the memory modules (including the HDD 209 and semiconductor memory 206) that ca be accessed by the computer module 201 in Fig. 2 A.

[00113] When the computer module 201 is initially powered up, a power-on self-test (POST) program 250 executes. The POST program 250 is typically stored in a ROM 249 of the semiconductor memory 206. A hardware device such as the ROM 249 is sometimes referred to as firmware. The POST program 250 examines hardware within the computer module 201 to ensure proper functioning, and typically checks the processor 205, the memory (209, 206), and a basic input-output systems software (BIOS ) module 251, also typically stored in the RO 249, for correct operation. Once the POST program 250 has run successfully, the BIOS 251 activates the hard disk drive 210, Activation of the hard disk dri ve 210 causes a bootstrap loader program 252 that is resident on the hard disk drive 210 to execute via the processor 205. This loads an operating system 253 into the RAM memory 206 upon which the operating system 253 commences operation. The operating system 253 is a system level application, executable by the processor 205, to fulfil various high level functions, including processor management, memory management, device management, storage management, software application interface, and generic user interface,

[001 14] The operating system 253 manages the memory (209. 206) in order to ensure that each process or application running on the computer module 201 has sufficient memor in which to execute without col iding with memory allocated to another process. Furthermore, the different types of memory available in the system 200 must be used properly so that each process can run effectively. Accordingly, the aggregated memory 234 is not intended to illustrate how particular segments of memory are allocated (unless otherwise stated), but rather to provi de a general view of the memory accessible by the computer control system 200 and how such is used.

[001 1 ] The processor 205 includes a number of functional modules including a control unit 239, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 240, and a local or internal memory 248, sometimes called a cache memory. The cache memory 248 typically include a number of storage registers 244 - 246 in a register section storing date 247. One or more interna! busses 241 functionally interconnect these functional modules. The processor 205 typically also has one or more interfaces 242 for communicating with external devices via the system bus 204, using a connection 218.

[001 16] The application program 233 includes a sequence of instructions 231 that may include conditional branch and loop instructions. The program 233 may also include data 232 which is. used in execution of the program 233. The instructions 231 and the data 232 are stored in memory locations 228-230 and 235-237 respectively. Depending upo the relative size of the instructions 231. and the memory locations 228-230, a particular instruction may be stored in a single memory location as depicted by the instruction shown in the memory locatio 230. Alternately, an instruction may be segmented into a number of parts each of which is stored in a separate memory location, as depicted by the instruction segments shown in the memory locations 228 to 229.

[001 17] In general, the processor 205 is given a set of instructions 243 which are executed therein. The processor 205 then waits for a subsequent input, to whic it reacts to by executing another set of instructions. Each input may be provided from, one or more of a number of sources, including data generated by one or more of the input devices 202, 203, data received from an external source across one of the networks 220, 202, data retrieved from one of the storage devices 206, 209 or data retrieved from a storage medium 225 inserted into the corresponding reader 212. The execution of set of the instructions may in some cases result in output of data. Execution may also involve storing data or variables to the memory 234.

[001 18] The disclosed arrangements use input variables 254 that are stored in the memory 234 in corresponding memory locations 255 to 258. The described arrangements produce output variables 261 that are stored in the memory 234 in corresponding memory locations 262 to 265. Intermediate variables may be stored in memory locations 259, 260, 266 and 267.

The register section 244 to 246, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 240, and the control unit 239 of the processor 205 work together to perform sequences of micro-operations needed to perform "retch, decode, and execute" cycles for every instruction in the instruction set making up the program 233. Each fetch, decode, and execute cycle comprises: a fetch operation, which fetches or reads an instruction 231 from a memory location 228; a decode operatio in which the control unit 239 determines which instruction has been fetched; and an execute operation, in which the control unit 239 and/or the ALU 240 execute the instruction.

[00119] Thereafter, a further fetch, decode, and execute cycle for the next instruction may he executed. Similarly, a store cycle may be performed by which the control unit 239 stores or writes a value to a memory location 232. Each step or sub-process in the metliods of the invention are associated with one or more segments of the program 233, and is performed by the register section 244-1.047, the ALU 240, and the control unit 239 in the processor 205 working together to perform the fetch, decode, and execute cycles for every instruction in the instruction set for the noted segments of the program 233.

[00120] One or more client or server computers 250, 25 may be connected to the communications network 220 as seen in Fig. 2A. Each of the computers 250, 251 may have a similar configuration to the computer module 201 and corresponding peripherals.

[00121] The methods of the invention may alternatively be implemented in dedicated hardware such as one or more integrated circuits performing the functions or sub functions of the described methods. Such dedicated hardware may include graphic processors, digital signal processors, or one or more microprocessors and associated memories.

L Aquaculture Device., System and Method ( Aqua Lurnineti.es):

[001.22] The inventors have provided a novel and inventive aquaculture device, system and method comprising one or more LED (light emitting diode) light. The lighting of the invention allows the optimal growth and development of an aquaculture species.

[00123] in a significant development, the device, system and method of the invention may be computer controlled and fully programmable.

[00124] After identifying the problems caused by the current methods of use of LED and metal halide lights in the aquaculture industry, the present inventors have provided LED lights that suitable address the global aquaculture industry requirements for photoperiod manipulation.

[00125] One embodiment of an aquaculture device 100 according to the invention is shown in FIG. 1. Aquaculture device 100 comprises 6 LED lights 1 10 positioned above a holding tank 102.

[00.126] in other embodiments the LED lights 1 10 are positioned. on the side or below holding tank 102. [001.27] la other embodiments there may 1 to 10 LED lights. In still other embodiments there may e 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 LED lights.

[00128] The LED lights 1 10 emit light at 480-550 urn wavelength and 5.5 to 10 microwatt/cm ² intensity. The wavelength may be 480, 485, 490, 495, 500, 505, 510, 515, 20, 525, 530, 535, 540, 545 or 550 ran. The intensity may be 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7,0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5 or 0 micro watt/cm ² .

[00129] The species subject of aquaculture may be held in holding tank 102 for culturing.

[00130] Although not shown, holding tank 102 comprises all other components necessary for aquaculture such as, a filter (not shown) for filtering the solution in the holding tank; an oxygen tank (not shown) for providing oxygen to the holding tank 102; a defractioner (not shown) for removing protein scum; a heat exchange header tank (not shown) for controlling the tem erature; and one or more chemica tank (not shown) for storing chemicals to alter one or more aquaculture factor.

[00131] From the teachings herein a skilled person is readily able to select the addi tional components required for holding tank 102.

[00132] LED lights 1 10 are connected to a power supply 120 (not shown) by power cable 122.

[0 133] LED lights 1 10 are also connected to a computer control system 200 by network 220 and/or 222.

[001 4] The LED lights ma be used at any wavelength, and intensity, in one embodiment the LED fights are used up to full spectrum,

[00135] The wavelength and/or intensity may he selected to be as appropriate for the species subject of aquaculture.

[00136] The wavelength and/or intensity may be selected to be as appropriate for the stage of the species sub ject of aquaculture.

[00.137] The wavelength and or intensity may be selected to be as appropriate for the advanced growth of the species subject of aquaculture,

[00138] The wavelength and/ox intensity may be selected to be as appropriate for the prevention of maturation of the species subject of aquaculture. [00139] la the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the LED lights are controlled by computer system 200. Computer system 200 is connected to one or more LED Hght through network 222

[00140] Computer system 200 may receive one or mor input comprisi ng an aq uacul ture factor and alter the light emitted from the one or ^' more LED light 1 10 based on the received one or more aquaculture factor.

[00141] The one or more aquaculture .factor may comprise one or more of light wavelength, light intensity, oxygen concentration, nitrate concentration and nitrite concentration, ammonia concentration, pH, water hardness, carbonate hardness, salt concentration, C0 ₂ concentration, species subject of aquaculture or aquaculture product size, species subject of aquaculture or aquaculture product growth rate and/or electrolyte concentration.

[00142] The one or more aquaculture factor may be provided continually as feedback to the computer system.

[00143] The one or more aquaculture factor may be input by a user.

[00144] The altering of the light emitted may include wavelength and/or intensity.

[00145] The computer system may receive a value of one or more aquaculture factor. From the received one or more aquaculture factor the computer system may determine if the light emitted should be altered, if the determination provides that the light emitted should be altered then the computer system will alter the light emitted from one or more LED 1 10. The alteration will deliver emitted light altered in accordance with the determination.

[00146] The one or more aquaculture facto may be received from an input device.

[00147] The input device may comprise one or more sensor. The one or more sensor may be one or more light sensor, oxygen probe, nitrate meter, nitrite meter, ammonia meter, C02 meter or pH meter (not shown).

[00148] Advantageously, the aquaculture device, syste and method of the invention (Aqua-Luminetics™) may be: computer controlied so the required amount of light is always present; able to precisely simulate the environment in terms of minutes, hours, day, night and seasons ; species specific - can be "tuned' so as to emit the bandwidth and i ntensity of light that best suits an individual species; energy efficient - would have 7 times the life span of similar metal ha!ide lights and would reduce energy use by over 50%;

[00149] The use of Aqua Lun inetics™ in the salmon industry may result in; sigiiificant cost savings; increase salmon growth rates by 5 to 10%; reduce salmon stress; increase the welfare of salmon ; allow the effective simulation of seasons and natural light; and will offer a solution to OHS issues in hatcheries.

[00150] The Aqua-Lumineties™ system may provide significant ongoing cost savings in comparison to its current use of metal halide and LED lighting. In addition this system may significantly increase productivity and welfare of farmed species.

[00151 J A further advantage of the device, system and method of the in ventioii is that it is cost efficient.

[00152] The salmon industry is but one of the global aquacuiture industries to which Aqua Luniinetics™ can be applied to significantly reduce producers' powe consumption, significantly increase species growth rates and hence producers income, significantly increase the welfare of species and significantly improve O S issues that hatcheries face,

2. Aquacuiture Product Conditioning Device, System and Method ( Active Water and Seafood Management System (AWSM))

[00153] The present inventors have provided a novel and inventive conditioning device, system and met hod which al low seafood to be transported., live "out of water". Surprisingly, the invention improves the welfare of species while alive, decreases the expenses of producers, and increases the qualit of the end product purchased by consumers.

[00154] The method, device and system of the invention is a scientifically tested and fully automated process applied to live fish and aquacuiture products and may result in a significant reduction in the specimen's rate of metabolism, muscular movement and production of lactic acid.

[00155] Advantageously, the conditioning device unit performs the method of the invention by controlled temperature reduction of the core temperature offish and seafood, and automated dosing with a conditioning composition that is held in a replaceable cartridge 350.

[00.156] The conditioning composition held in the replaceable cartridge 350, when added to water, advantageously reduces the effects of stress on live product, and controls the pH and hardness of water, while controlling oxygen levels and removing carbon dioxide from the water. Water is reticulated through a filtration system and U V light, removing bacteria and disease, and ensuring that clean water is moved across the gills of fish and seafood.

[00157] One embodiment of a conditioning device 300 according to the invention is shown in FIGS. 3A-3D.

[00 58] The refrigeration and dosing is controlled by a Touch Panel Computer (TPC) 31.0 interfacing with a variable speed compressor 320 (not shown). The touch panel computer 310 is similar to computer control system 200.

[00159] The TPC 310 is a microprocessor-based control system, designed to provide complete control of compressor 320 and the other components of device 300.

[00160] The other components of device 320 may include on e or more of a condenser 330 (not shown); a pump 340 (not shown) for driving the delivery of the conditioning composition from cartridge 350 (not shown); cartridge 350 (not shown); a refrigeration unit 360 (not shown); conditioning tank 370; a filter 380 (not shown); an oxygen tank 390 (not shown); oxygen pump 391 ; a defractioner 392 (not shown) for removing protein scum; a heat exchange header tank 394 (not shown).

[00161 ] The TPC 310 may include input and output communication boards, remote communication software, sensors and probes (not shown).

[00162] The TPC may be connected to network 220 or 222. When connected to network 200 or 22 programming of the TPC ma be performed by remote computer. The remote access through network 220 or 222 may require an access code.

[00163] Advantageously, the embodiment of device 300 shown in FIG. 3 may fit through doors and be easily displayed or transported to larger bins or storage tanks 372. Although such a small size is of significant advantage, device 300 may be made as large or small as required for the particular circumstances. The device 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D is small enough so it can be easily carried and connected to a bin or storage tank 372 (not shown) containing for example, 350 kg of fish, and effectively applied using the method of the invention (AWSM Process).

[00164] Device 300, without conditioning tank 370 or bi or storage tank 372 is 1.2 by 1.5 meters and includes: refrigeration unit 360; pump 340 for the addition of the composition from the cartridge 350; cartridge 350; suspended solid filter 380, nitrite and nitrate removal membrane 382, ammonia concentration (not shown), carbon dioxide removal filter 384, ti V light tubes and/or LED lights such as LED lights 102; Oxygen injection pump 391 ; defractionator 390; water pump 393; and heat exchange header tank 3 4.

[00165] Conditioning tank 370 is of small size, suitable for I -5 fish. Advantageously device 320 may be connected to a larger bin or storage tank 372 as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In the embodiment shown in FIGS- 4A and 4B, device 300 is connected to a larger bin or storage tank 372 that may hold 1000 litres of water or more.

[00166] FIG.4B shows device 300 to comprise: cartridge or chemical tank 350; dosing pump 340; refrigeration unit 360; air pump 391; wafer pump 393; filter 380; bin or storage tank 372; oxygen tank 390; defractionator 390; and heat exchange header tank 394.

[00167] In the embodiments show the exterior of device 300 comprises Al uminum and high density polyethylene (HDPE).

[00168] In one embodiment the temperature and/or dosing Is selected to be as appropriate for transport of the aquaculture product.

[00169] In one embodiment the temperature and/or dosing is selected to be as appropriate ibr the stress level of the aquaculture product.

[00170] In one embodiment TPC 310 is preprogrammed with desired aquaculture factors for a variety of aquaculture products. Through simply typing in the name, and weight, of the subject species, and pressing the start button the fully automated conditioning process begins.

[00171] In one embodiment the aquaculture product may be any type offish, crustacean, mollusc and/or plant.

[00172] In one embodiment the computer may recei e one or more input comprising an aquaculture factor and alter the temperature and/or dosing based on the recei ved one or more aquaculture factor.

[00.173] The one or more aquaculture factor may comprise one or more of oxygen concentration, rate of water filtering; type of water filtering, nitrate concentration and nitrite concentration, ammonia concentration, C<¾ concentration, pH, water hardness, carbonate hardness, salt concentration, aquaculture product size, aquaculture product growth rate and or electrolyte concentration. [00174] The one or more aquaculture factor may be provided continually as feedback to the computer system.

[00175] In one embodiment the computer system may receive a value of one or more aquaculture factor; determine from the received aquaculture fac tor if the temperature, dosing and/or aquaculture factor should be altered; if the determination provides that the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor should be altered then altering the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor; delivering dosing, altered temperature or altered aquaculture factor in accordance with the determination.

[00176] The one or more aquaculture factor may be received from an input device. The one or more aquaculture factor may be input by a user. The input device may comprise one or more sensor. The one or more sensor may comprise one or more light sensor, oxygen probe, nitrate meter, nitrite meter, ammonia meter, CO meter or pH meter.

[ΟΟΓ77] According to one embodiment the holding unit may further comprise a condenser and/or refrigeration unit.

[ΟΟ Γ78] According to one embodiment, one or more of the following may be further comprised: a filter for filtering the solution in the holding tank, an oxygen tank for providing oxygen to the holding tank; a defxactioner for removing protein scum ; a heat exchange header tank for controlling the temperature: and one or more chemical tank for storing chemicals to alter the one or more aquaculture factor.

[00179] An alarm may sound when the process is completed.

[00180] The commercial advantages of the invention incl ude: substantial reduction in freight costs as fish are transported live without any, or w th a substantially reduced amount of water; substantial reduction in the carbon footprint associated with the transportation of live seafood globally; improved quality of flesh and freshness, by red cing the level of stress and suffering pre-slaughter the appearance of flesh gaping, softness, rigor stiffening, undesirable pH, lactate levels and blood spotting is reduced; humane handling and processing of product, the welfare of fish during handling and processing is becoming increasingly important and the benefits flowing from treating fish using the invention includes a price premium and favourable sentiment from government, industry and, importantly, consumers; reduced mortality rates during handling and transport; decreased mortality rates by reducing each specimeiTs rate of metabolism, movement and lactic acid build up; artificial chemical free process, the process uses naturally occurring, environmentally friendly ingredients that do not harm either the fish or consumers; market expansion, growt in live fis and marine product transport and expansion of routes; the improved economics of live fish and marine product trade resulting from the invention may result in lowering freight costs, increase the amount and variety of seafood air freighted, and may also expand the number of markets; and diseases carried in water are eradicated or greatly reduced. Current methods of transporting live fish and marine product in water create environmental concerns as wate that carries the product can also carry and spread disease between regions.

3. Aquacuhure Product Transportation Device., System and Method (Trans Hiberneti.es)

[00181] The inventors have surprisingly provided a premium conditioning device and system for the transportation of juvenile fish and seafood and other aquacuhure products between hatcheries; grow out facilities and/or distributors or consumers.

[00182] Aquaculrure production of Atlantic Salmon in Tasmania, as with salmon and trout ranching worldwide, begins in fresh water hatcheries. In these hatcheries fingerlings hatch from eggs, and are typically exposed to photoperiod manipulation for six months until fingerlings go through a metamorphism, and become smolts,

[00183] Smolts are fish able to live in salt water. The smolts are now ready to be transported from the hatchery to the sea, where they will be placed in cages and grown out until they become adult Atlantic salmon and ready for harvest. It is during this transportation that the transportation device, system and method of the invention is applied.

[00184] The invention prepares aquacuhure product, for a change in the conditions of the water in which they will live.

[00185] FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of the device 400 according to the invention. The conditioning takes place while the aquacuhure product is in bins or tanks 410 ready to be and/or being transported from one site to another. Following the principles of the au tomated conditioning provided by the inventors, the invention may place a conditioning device 300 on each tank 410. An analysis of each tank' s water may be input into a computer control system 200, and also input the results from an analysis of the salt water at the destination. The destination may be for example, a farm where the smolts are to be relocated. Over the course of the trip, conditions i the tank may be changed to better meet the conditions of the salt water at the smolts' destination. [00186] A cartridge 350 holds the conditioning composition used to condition the water, reduce the stress, and improve the health of the smolts being relocated.

[00187] The cartridge 350 may be one or more of sealed, reusable, reftllable. The carti idge may be a consumable, much like a printer cartridge, and may be available only from one source or a licensed distributor.

[001.88] The transportation, device, system and method may be hard installed and/or fully computerised and may control one or more aquaculture component. The aquaculture component may be comprise one or more of temperature, pH, KH, salinity, DO (dissol ved oxygen), CO ₂ , N¾ and sterilization.

[00189] Of significant advantage the transportation device and system maybe easily and fully fitted to new or existing transport tanks.

[001 0] The dosing may be selected to be as appropriate for transport of the aquaculture product. In one embodiment the dosing is selected to be as appropriate for the stress level of the aquaculture product.

[001 1] In one embodiment the computer is preprogrammed with desired aquaculture f ctors for a variety of aquaculture products. Through simply typing in the name, and weight, of the subject species, and pressing the start button the fully automated conditioning process begins.

[00192] hi one embodiment the aquaculture product may be any -type of fi sh, crustacean, mollusc and/ r plant.

[001 3] In one embodiment the computer may recei ve one or more input comprising an aquacul ture factor and alter the temperature and/or dosing based on the recei ved one or more aquaculture factor.

[001 4] The one or more aquaculture factor may comprise one or more of oxygen concentration, rate of water filtering; type of water filtering, nitrate concentration and nitrite concentration, ammonia concentration, pH, water hardness, carbonate hardness, salt concentration, CO ₂ concentration, aquaculture product size, aquaculture product growth rate and/or electrolyte concentration.

[00.195] The one or more aquaculture factor may be a reading in the transport tank and/or in the destination of the aquaculture product. [001 6] The one or more aquaculture factor may be provided continually as feedback to the computer system.

[00197] In one embodiment the computer system may receive a value of one or more aquaculture factor; determine from the received aquaculture fac tor if the temperature, dosing and/or aquaculture factor should be altered; if the determination provides that tire temperature, dosing o aquaculture factor should be altered then altering the temperature, dosing or aquaculture factor; delivering dosing, altered temperature or altered aquaculture factor in accordance with the determination.

[00198] The one or more aquaculture factor may be received from one or more input device. The one or more aquaculture product may be input by a user. The one or more input device may comprise one or more sensor. The one or more sensor may comprise one or more light sensor, oxygen probe, nitrate meter, nitrite meters, ammonia meter, CO ₂ meter or pH meter. The one or more sensor may be in the transport tank or destination,

[001 9] According to one embodiment the computer may further comprise a touch panel.

[00200] According to another embodiment the transport tank may further comprise a condense and/or ref igeration unit.

[00203 ] According to yet another embodiment the condenser and/or refrigeration unit may be controlled by the computer.

[00202] The benefits of such a system when used with smolts, are scientifically proven and may provide immediate benefits to growers in the form of: significant increases in post transfer growth rates of smolts; immediate increases in post transfer survival rates of smolts; reduced stress, and an increase in the survival rates, and general welfare of smolts during and after transfer; and a significant decrease in disease and infection, during and after the transportation of smolts.

The conditioning composition:

[00203] In any aspect or embodiment the invention may make use of a conditioning composition for conditioning a species subject of aquaculture comprising a buffer; a carbonate buffer; a salt; and an electrolyte.

[00204] In one embodiment the conditioning composition is stored in the cartridge 350, [00205] The buffer may comprise TRIS (tris(hyidroxymethyl)aminomethaiie). TRIS (also known as THAM) is an abbreviation of the organic compound known as tris(iiydroxwiethyl)aniiiiomethane, with the formula (HOC-¾)3CNl¾. TRIS is used as it's biochemistry and molecular biology does not harm the nucleic acids of fi sh and all animals. It is a primary amine and thus undergoes the reactions associated with typical amines, e.g. condensations wit aldehydes.

[00206] TRIS has a pKa of 8.07 at 25 °C _> so as buffer has an effective pH range between 7.1 and 9,0, depending on the species

[00207] The useful buffer range for tris coincides with the physiological pH typical of most living organisms. This, and its low cost, make tris one of the most common buffers in the biology/biochemistry laboratory.

[00208] TRIS is used as alternative to sodium bicarbonate in the prevention of metabolic acidosis. The TRIS is dissolved into distilled deionized ater, 1/3-1 /2 of the desired final volume. Mix in HC1 (e.g., 1 M HO) until the pH meter gives the desired pH for your Tris buffer solution. The buffer is diluted with water to reach the desired final volume of solution.

[00209] The carbonate buffer may comprise sodium bicarbonate (bicarbonate of soda).

[00210] KH (CARBONATE HARD ESS/PH BUFFERING): KH - bicarbonate of soda may be used as a KH buffer. Maintaining KH buffers pH from drastic swings which can be deadly as once alkaline buffers are depleted sudden and dangerous pH crashes are likely,

[0021 1 ] Adding these carbonate (or bi-carbonate) buffers will raise pH to a point of stability and the continued use of certain carbonate buffer "mixes" may raise pH even more. The rise in pH is related to the ratio of W to OH ^" ions. The CO/ will react with the H ⁺ and eliminate it This reaction will cause more ¾0 to break, up into H ^' and OH ^' ions. Because some OH ^" ions were already present, this shifts the ratio thereby raising pH and making the water base (alkaline).

[00212 ] Putting it another way; KH (carbon ate hardness) is caused by metals combined with a loon of alkalinity: KH (or Alkalinity) is the capaci ty of water to neutralize ac ids and KH is made up of compounds such as carbonate, bicarbonate, hydroxide, and sometimes borate & silicate.

[00213] A higher KH can neutralize more acids produced from fish biological processes than a lower KH.

[00214] More simply put; mahitaining a certain KH does not guarantee a certain pH (As Iris does) due to m any other chemistry aspects. However maintaining a KH appropriate for the fish prevents drastic pH swings,

[00215] In contrast, non-carbonate hardness (OH) forms when metals combine with anything other than alkalinity, which is why calcium does not raise pH directly,

[00216] Baking Soda (Sodium Bi-Carbonate ^' NaHCO _,¾ ^" ) _> may be used for KH ^' . Sodium

Bi-Carbonate will buffer at 8.0 to 8.2. Just a little Sodium Carbonate absorbs free W ions, and this causes alkalinity (which is the lack of H ions).

[00217] To stop th e Sodi um Carbonate ions from con suming too much H ^' and to keep a pH of 7.0 the amount of Baking Soda used is restricted, as it is always looking for H ⁺ ions to consume. Products that not only contain sodium carbonates (or sodium hi carbonates), but the proper ratios of other minor elements such as calcium and magnesium are used.

[00218] Aragonite Salts - may also supply some carbonates as well.

[0021 ] Epson salt and kosher - salt are used to control General Hardness (GH).

[00220] General hardness (GH or dGH) refers to the dissolved concentration primarily of calcium, magnesium and other mineral ions. Both Calcium and magnesium are important for proper internal osmotic processes in fish (and invertebrates). Other ions can contribute to water hardness but are usually insignificant and difficult to measure. When fish are said to prefer "soft" or "hard" water, it is GH, not the KH that is being referred to. GH will generally not directly affect pH although "hard" water is generally alkalme due to some interaction of GH and KH (it should also be noted that GH DOES effect pH when photosynthesis is accounted for.

[00221] The salt may comprise one or more of aragonite salts, magnesium sulfate (Epson salt), sodium chloride (kosher salt).

[00222] Magnesium: Magnesium is important for proper osmotic functions in fish and invertebrates.

[00223] Magnesium is essential for Calcium assimilation, so when magnesium levels are low, the calcium supply becomes exhausted. For this reason, Magnesium is added in the proper balance with calcium (which both are essential to each other for proper utilization). [00224] Magnesium is part of the overall mineral balance of fish and is kept it at a level of 1200 to 1400 ppm in marine aquariums (lower for freshwater).

[00225] Epsom salts that contain magnesium sulfate, are used for therapeutic reasons such as to aid in flushing the system as it aids in and speeds osmotic function, and helps to move fluids out of the body. Sulfates, one of the major components of Epsom Salt, have been shown effective i improving toxin elimination. Magnesium, the other major component of Epsom Salt, plays a role in the activity of more than 325 enzymes. Other needs for magnesium; normal calcium balance in organs; healthy muscles; healthy nerve transduction; and healthy calcium balance in blood vessels

[00226] Calcium carbonate will keep a more stable electrolyte balance (for osmotic function), while magnesium is another important element that works with calcium. The proper amount of Calcium and Magnesium in the transport water affects the fish health positively. Magnesium and calcium have been shown to increase resistance to degenerate diseases by lowering the acidity in the body. This helps with prevention of fungus, and general "wear and tear" of transported fish. Calcium also helps in healing and stress. The presence of correct amounts of calcium in the transport and conditioning water considerably reduce the toxic side effects of many toxins found in water.

[00227] The presence of free (ionic) calcium at relatively high concentrations in transport and conditioning water reduces the loss of other salts (e.g. sodium and potassium) from fish body fluids (i.e. blood). Sodium and potassium are the most important salts in fish blood and are critical for normal heart, nerve and muscle function. In low calcium water fish lost substantial quantities of these salts into the water.

[00228] Calcium and magnesium are kept at 1200- 1400 ppm by the present process as in general is if these important elements are in short supply .

[00229] Other needs for calcium: calcium is a vital component in blood clotting systems and also helps in wound healing; calcium helps to control nerve transmission, and release of neiirotransmitters; calcium is an essential component in the production of enzymes and hormones that regulate digestion, energy, and fat metabolism; calcium helps to transport ions (electrically charged particles) across the membrane; calcium is essential for muscle contraction; and calcium assists in maintaining all cells and connective tissues in tire body.

[00230] The electrolyte may comprise one or more of magnesium, calcium, sodi m, potassium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate and/or hydrogen carbonate.

[00231 ] Electrolytes: are molecular substances containing free ions are added, which behave as an electrically conductive medium.

[00232] In fish (or other living things) the primary ions of electrolytes are sodium (Ha ^' ), potassium (K ^{f )} calcium (Ca ^; ), magnesium (Mg ^+÷ ), chloride (CT), phosphate (P04 ^" ~), and hydrogen carbonate ( HCC. ).

[00233] Fish and other aquatic life forms require a subtle and complex electrolyte balance between the intracellular (inside the cell) and extra cellular (outside the cell such as plasma membranes) environment. In particular, the maintenance of precise osmotic gradients of electrolytes is important. These gradients affect and regulate the hydration oftiie fish, blood H, and disease resistance and are important for proper nerve and muscle function.

[00234] Salt is another type of electrolyte that may be used in freshwater to add some sodium electrolytes- to freshwater.

[00235] Carbon dioxide scrubber; A carbon dioxide scrubber is a device which absorbs carbon dioxide (CCh). The present invention may use activated carbon as a carbon dioxide scrubber.

[00236] Activated carbon used as a carbon dioxide scrubber. Air with high carbon dioxide content created in the transport containers may be blown through beds of activated carbon and the carbon dioxide is absorb onto the activated carbon. Once the bed is saturated it may be returned to be "regenerated" by blowing low carbon dioxide air through the bed. This releases the carbon dioxide from the bed, and it can then be used to scrub again.

[00237] The following non-limiting examples illustrate the device-, system and methods of the invention. These examples should not be construed as limiting; the examples are included for the purposes of illustration only. The device, system and methods discussed in the Examples will be understood to represen t an exemplification of the invention.

Examples

1. Aquaculture Device, System and Method (Aqua Luminetics):

[00238] Discussions have been held with a leading Tasmanian. based salmon hatchery regarding the photoperiod technology. The company is a global leader in the use of cutting technology in aquaculture. The method, device and system will be trialled. The details of the Atpja-Luminefics™ trial, the initial income it will generate and the general operations of the Tasmanian salmon hatcheries are described below.

[00239] The upcoming industry trial of the aquaculture device, system and method will begin with the use of two devices. Each device will contain 6 computer controlled LED lights, with a computer control system 200 assigned to each of the two trial tanks. Each trial tank will hold 60,000 fingerlings.

[00240] The device will emit light at the exact bandwidth and intensity required to maximise fuigerlmg growth rates, effectively control physical and sexual maturation, and maximise fish welfare. The Aqua Liiminetics™ system will not waste power emitting light at bandwidths and intensities that are not required by the fingerlings.

[00241 ] The trial will use 2 control tanks each containing 60,000 fingerliiigs of the same size and maturity as the fingerlings used in the trial tanks. The fingerliiigs in the control tanks will be exposed to the usual methods of photoperiod manipulation using metal halide lights, as used in a majority of salmon, and aquaculture hatcheries around the world.

[00242] After 3-4 months the fish from each of the four tanks containing 60,000 fingerlings will be graded according to length and weight. The largest 30,000 fingerlings from each tank will be separated from the smallest 30,000 fingerlings of each tank. They will both be placed in separate tanks. There will now be eight tanks of 30,000 fingerlings. Four tanks will be the control and continue to be exposed to photoperiod manipulation using metal halide lights. There will be four tanks of 30,000 fingerlings that have been exposed to the method of the invention for 3-4 months. The largest 30,000 fingerlings from each tank will continue to be exposed to the method of the invention. As with the control tanks, the smaller 30,000 fingerlings from each of tire trial tanks become 'spring' smolts and will not be exposed to any further photoperiod manipulation. They follow the natural maturation of .fingerlings and become smolts in and go to sea cages 15 months after they hatched.

[00243] The largest 30,000 fingerlings from each of the trial tanks will now be placed in larger tanks where photoperiod manipulation will continue. At this stage, due to the larger tanks used to hold the larger fish, two Aqua Luminetics™ systems will be used in each of the two larger tanks. These fingerlings due to continuing photoperiod manipulation will be given an artificial winter of reduced light followed by an artificial spring of increased light . They will become smolts and be ready to be relocated to sea cages 10 months after they hatched, 5 months ahead of those smolts that stopped being exposed to photoperiod manipulation at 6 months.

[00244] The 60,000 smolts from the trial tanks that have been constantly exposed to Aqua Luminetics™ will be relocated into the one sea cage where they will be grown out before harvesting. The growth rates and condition of the fish from both the control and trial tanks will be monitored until they are harvested.

[00245] At the end of the trial of the aquacuUure device, system and method, it will be clearl shown that the invention used on the trial tanks consumed far less power than the metal halide lights used on the control tanks. More importantly, fish exposed to the invention will be in optimal condition when they are transported trorn the hatchery to sea cages, to be grown out and then harvested. Scientific studies have shown that there will be a 5 - 10% increase in the harvested weight of Atlantic salmon that have been exposed to photoperiod manipulation using the invention.

[00246] The financial significance of a 5 to 10% increase in salmon growth rates attributable to the invention is easily seen when the large sales in the salmon industry are considered. A 5 to 10% increase in harvested weight may equate to a multimillion dollar increase i n annual income for individual suppliers. The potential of Aqua Lumi neties™ is seen when the Tasmanian salmon industry's annual production of 34,000 tonnes is considered which represents only 1.88% of the annual global salmon production of 1 ,800,000 tonnes, is .

[00247] It is expected the first trials will be undertaken for species other than salmon shortly. The success of the salmon trials and the results of the scientific experiments which have identified the light bandwidth and intensity required to be used with a majority of the commercial species exposed to photoperiod manipulation will be used. There may be sales in this market segment shortly,

2, Aquaculture Product Conditioning Device, System and Method (Bibemetics)

[00248] A fully operational, fully automated, small scale, Hibemetics™ Unit prototype was designed, engineered and constructed. The unit performs the Hibemetics™ process by controlled temperature reduction of the core temperature offish and seafood, and automated dosing of from a replaceable cartridge designed and manufactured by the Applicant. [00249] The Applicant is finalising plans for the introduction of the AWSM system to commercial conditions. Collection and analysis of the AWSM systems trial results will he performed.

[00250] In Tasmania, between 10 and Ϊ2 million smolts are grown each year. Each sniolt is valued at $2.50, The smolts are transported, 18,000 on eac truckload, from freshwater hatcheries to saltwater farms. Each truck carries 6 tanks, with each tank holding 3,000 smolts. Currently in Tasmania little effort is made to ensure conditions during the smolts' relocation both limit the stress suffered by smolts, and provide the conditions where smolts are best able to cope with the change m conditions between hatchery and sea farm.

[00251 J Research of scienti tic institutes from around the world has proven that mortality rates, and post transfer growth rates, of smolts in the week following relocation are significantly affected by the conditions in which they are transferred. To this point, no publis hed research has been un derta ken on the long term effects o f relocation, on the growth rates and general welfare of smolts. Anecdotal evidence, in the form of discussions with the management of Tasmani an salmon farmers, suggest the effects are likely to be exponential, and results in a 5 to 10% reduction in the harvest weight, and therefore value, of the global salmon industry. In the Tasmanian salmon industry this 5 to 10% represents a $15 to $30 million reduction in the sectors ^" income.

[00252] The AWSM device, system and method will be triailed in the transport of smolts and the smolts will be grown out and then harvested. Collection and analysis of scientific data relating to the smolts prior to transport until after they are harvested as adult salmon will be performed.

[00253] In the commercial trials, three or half the tanks holding salmon on a truck, will be fitted with a. AWSM system. Overthe trip to the sea farm, the water in these 3 tanks will be treated by the AWSM system so the water and the smolts cairied in it, are conditioned. This will acclimatize the smolts ready for the saltwater environment at the sea farms, while minimizing their stress, and decreasing the likelihood that they will contract disease.

[00254] Numerous studies carried out by research institutes from around the globe have found that the growth rates and general heal th of salmon, and other species, are affected by the manner in which they transported during relocation. The monitoring of the experimental and control sea cages will able to verify both the short and Song term positive effects of the invention.

[00255] The AWSM system may comprise reusable cartridges, holding the composition of the invention used to condition the water, reduce the stress suffered by sraolts, and generally ensure the sraolts. are in premium condition when they enter a saltwater environment for the first time. This cartridge, much like a printer cartridge, will be a consumable. The cartridges will be supplied by the Applicant. This cartridge is expected to deliver significant benefits to the global aquaculture industry ^' when used in conjunction with the remainder of the invention.

[00256] In the Tasmanian A tlantic salmon industry there are 4,000 individual tank toads of smoits that are transported between freshwater hatcheries and saltwater sea farms each year and each one will require a cartridge according to the invention. The benefits of the AWSM system are apparent when the amount of seafood that is relocated globally is considered. ^' Every day, of every year, the significant positive difference that the invention will make to the welfare, comfort and growth rates of all species being transported may be substantial.

4. Species specific conditions for 1. 2. and 3.

[00257] Species specific conditioning protocols have been developed. For example, species specific protocols have been developed for Atlantic Salmon, Wrasse, Barramundi, coral trout and grouper. All are different in requirements of temperature and buffering as is the water they are found in. The buffering is controlled by probes and a meter in the unit.

[00258] In all test cases, the pH of the water and blood may be monitored to prevent stress.

5. Smolt Transfers:

[00259] There are many variables to consider in smolt transfers, including the size of individual smolt, water temperature, length of transfer and water conditions at the destination, the saltwater grow out farm. Of prime importance is the quality of smolt pre transfer. Smolt should be of good health, and any injured or sick smolt should not be transferred.

[00260] It is important to minimise the stress responses of smolt during loading in transfer tanks, in the 4 weeks leading up to, and following, smolt transfers, there should be full record keeping of mortality rates, food intake, behavioural issues, disease, etc.

[00261 ] Smolt should be starved for a minimum of 72 hours before transfers to clear the gut and reduce metabolic activity (excretions etc) . [00262] Stocking density in a transport system -when ^' there is limited control of water qualities should not exceed 70kg per 1 ,000 litres. Using the AWSM system stocking density can be increased. The size of the increase is dependent on the length of transfer and water temperature etc,

[00263] The water smolt are transferred in should be free of pathogens and solids etc. and filtered using mechanical filtration systems and ultra violet light etc,

[00264] Oxygen supply to smolt daring transfer is of extreme importance and it should remain at approximately 100%. This reduces the toxicity of CO; and nitrogenous wastes.

[00265] An air blower will be used to inject pure oxygen at a rate of approx.2 litres and up to 4 litres (larger biomass) per minute per 300kg of smolt, to keep oxygen supply at required levels.

[00266] Transfers should take place in winter and early spring when temperatures are lower. The use of the AWSM system to control water temperature wilt widen the envelope for smolt transfers.

[00267] The heat and ehi 11 system will have a range of 4 °C to 28 °C, with a differentia! ofO.SC.

[00268] The transfer water should be chilled prior to transfers so it is between 7 and 1 degrees. The cooler the better as this slows smolt metabolism but the point below is a limiting factor on the amount of cooling that can take place.

[00269] Smolt should not experience temperature changes of more than 0,5 degrees per hour. Hence, the length of transfers and the temperature at the transfer's destination should be taken account of when chilling water.

[00270] During smolt transfers keep the C<½ level may be kept below 15 nig/1. In preferable embodiments, the CO ₂ evel is kept below 30 mg/1; below 5 mg/1; or below 2 mg 1.

[00271 ] Aeration may be used to remove carbon dioxide from transfer water. The pH buffer TRIS may be used at an approximate rate of 2g per litre of transfer water. The pH may be buffered to remain at 7.6 to 7.8, To achieve the desired pH, HCL may be mixed with the TRIS solution until the desired pH is reached. Tire pH at this level is generally stable but may- reduce the effect of Total Ammonia Nitrates (TAN) on smolt.

[00272] The conditioning fluid may contain 1000 to 1400 ppm magnesium and calcium. This will be administered i the form CaCl? and MgCQH)?.

[00273] A commercial sea salt mix ma be used to increase salinity of transfer water to between 1 ppt (parts per thousand) prior to smolt being transferred to full strength seawater (32 ppt). The saline solution will be kept in a separate tank and injected into transfer tank (water) through a computer controlled dosage pump. It is preferable, but not essential, that acclimatisation to salt water is carried out at the hatchery prior to transport.

[00274] I the case of saltwater transfers a protein sk immer/Foam Fractioner may be used with ozone gas injection to remove organics, gas off C0 ₂ and increase oxygenation of the water.

[00275] The water temperature ma be controlled, allowing for 1 to 1.5 degree changes per hour for smolt transfers.

6, Control of Ammonia:

[00276] To control the build up of ammonia a combination of the following will be used. In freshwater a zeolite or Activated-Carbon may be used. The biomass to water ratio may be calculated and the amount of time of travel to ensure there is enough water dilution. As part of the methods of the invention, the fish may be purged before transport. The purge time may be 48 hours or more . The temperature of the water may be reduced to reduce metabolic rate to reduce fish output of ammonia.

[00277] The salinity of seawater may be dr opped to change the pH of the water, and reduce the osmotic exchange taking place in the fish, that in turn reduces the ammonia output. The fish may be anesthetised by temperature or chemically to reduce metabolic rate and ammonia output. Light in the water may be reduced by restricting the transparency of fibreglass tanks. LED lighting may be used to view and/or to calm smolt during transfers, in transfers over six hours probiotics may be used to put aerobic bacteria in the water and to inhibit pathological bacteria that cause fin rot or other diseases or conditions. The tanks may be lightly pressurised to assist oxygen diffusion in water and condition smolt to swim below the surface. It is important to minimise stress responses in smolt during unloading.

7. Tank Design

[00278] When constructing from fibreglass, there should be no metals inside the wails of the tank other than embedded brass or 316 stainless. These metals should be covered by at least 5mm of fibreglass. inside and out must be smooth and free of glass fibres that could rip a fish or hand. The .ID measurements of the tank should be so that an off the shelf plastic ventilated trays will stack inside. Like the Nelly Fish bins with lids, or Prawn or Chicken baskets, that are no less than lOOrara depth, preferably 130mm.

[00279] The comers of the inside may be no more than a 1.00mm radius, so the baskets do not sit out to the edge and wate and ai may bypass the baskets. Preferably., no attachments are installed on the bottom of the tank that cannot be removed for cleaning, ex. no Heat exchangers. The bottom of the tank can have a l oop or ring secured to a laminated separate block to the floor, never fibreglass security loops or anchor points direct to a tank wall or bottom.

[00280] The drain pipe or threaded hole should be of an ID size that the Salmon farmers typically use, either 100mm or 150mm ID, with a BSP pipe thread to take a P VC male valve socket, if manufacturing in plastic ABS should not be used, unless it is for a Lloyds Ship specification, PVC or Polyethylene should be used instead,

[00281] The lid should be where it can secured down to an internal flange, so any leaks will come out on the inside of the bin. The Japanese live fish trucks have a very deep internal flange (80mm to 100mm) and have a 15mm to 20mm drain ipe going from the internal flange outside of tank and connected to a hose pipe that will take spilt seawater away from the transport truck or trailer. Lid gaskets should be on the iid flange not the actual tank flange or it will get damaged over tune from when loading fish bins or persons standing on tank flange. Put the gasket on the lid.

[00282] Some transport tanks have windows in the lid, but these are only practical to see dead fish floating on the surface of the water. The foam and sunlight reflecting back makes seeing through a top lid almost impossible. The strong sunlight in the top also will upset the live fish inside and cause a flight response. When included side windows may comprise securing clear acrylic or toughened glass on the inside going into compression from weight of water. There may be provision for a blind/black to go over the window to block out the light and insulate.

[00283] Securing lugs on the outside of the tanks, designed by an engineer, and satisfying even aviation standards for lifting by helicopter or securing in aircraft, may be comprised on the tank. Inside of tank on the walls maybe make convex grooves to take netting dividers to keep different size fish or sizes apart.

[00284] Built in LED lights may be used to help control of flight response and to help inspect tank through window at night Tank walls and base (Lid can be thinner) may be insulated to provide an value equal to 50mm stymie foam (typically water at 3 °C and outside temperature 40 °C).

[00285] Fibreg!ass of the same specifications as used for drinking water tanks, and preferably fast curing with steam or other means is used before using for live fish. Or heat seawater using onboard heatpump to 30 °C and leave recirculating, in tank for 3 days, then dumping to waste -

[00286] For installatio of filtration, heat exchangers, aeration systems the following may be used. Install airline pipes/Tank connector fittings (typical 10mm to 15mm) as high as possible in tank walls to reduce head pressure on the waterproof fittings. Any electrical compression glands should have full approval for IP68 and the rubber glands must be of Viton or similar material for protection from damage from Ozone/pure oxygen, & Chlorine/Chlorides. Heatexeb angers are preferably made of Titanium, and always allow 100mm of fee end outside, if needing to do any repairs, on j oining to the refrigeration copper pipes. Themiostat probe pockets into the tank should be at least 10mm ID best is 12mm and made of Titanium. The internal tank ends can be crimped and welded. In one embod iment, one or more Titanium Heat exchanger is installed, on the internal side wall, either as a small 120mm OD max coil or flat coils with a removable plastic pipe or side wall so airlifts can pump water up from the bottom of the tank past the Heat exchanger coils.

[00287] Built into these airlifts may be a foam fractionators/Protein skimmer design, so as to scrub organics from the water and gas off excess ozone and CO2.

[00288] There may also be vertical airlifts that pump water up through medium in netted bags of Zeolite & acti vated carbon. Preferably, the devices of the invention are suitable for approval to be used on international aircraft as to the same specifications as the live fish transport of those used to transport live Coral Trout. That is use electric motors that are brushless and they won't produce RF interference. For instance use the AC magnetic drive air pumps for aeration, but they do have a disadvantage of having only a 5 psi (33.5kpa) maximum pressure. [00289] Any aeration pipes into the tank must have inline non-return check valves, as a full tank of water, and air pushing down into the bottom of the tank will on stopping cause a bounce of water back up the air pipe which will go back into the air pumps with disastrous results. The diaphragm magnetic type air pumps are actual are not susceptible

[00290] Note, live fish transport tanks for aircraft, must be able to be at a 45% degree angle and not leak water from vents in the lid for air etc. As mentioned before one can put a pressure relief valve in the lid (must vent the air from aerating the tank) as used, new on a divers BC floatation devise or dry dive suit. Then can pressurise the tank system to artificially produce a 1.5 meter head. The tank lid flange gasket system preferably can tolerate 3 to 5 meters head.

[00291 ] The air diffusers/air stones used in the present invention may be selected with care as while one wants fine aeration, when the air is off, the water goes back into the diffiiser taking detriti /fine matter back into the pores and blocking the diffuser. Diffusers used in sewage treatment and in live eel transport that have the perforated rubber membrane that expands to release air but in an off air situation closes back up and acts as a non-return valve to the water may be suitable,

[00292] Preferably the plastic pipes down hard on the floor of a tank are not comprised of fibreglass, as it is near impossible for the fibreglasser to use their roller to remove all the air pockets and so a leak can occur at that interface,

8. Parameters fo Example Sroolt transfer

[00293] Test parameters; Temperature over time to 0, 1 c increments, Down to 3 °C up to 30 °C. Ph-4 to 1.0. Oxygen 0 to 1.50 ppt, temperature compensating. C(¾ le el .between 2 and 15 mg/L. Redox Potential (oxygen demand of pollutants in the water) used to also control ozone injection systems. Salinity, temperature compensating in. pt (may be actuall recorded as raicro/S) then converted for user/operator on interface. Separate hour meter that can be manually started and stopped to record actual journey eg. Trip meter. Also equipment hour meter for service records, as demanded by airlines for live fish transport systems. Filtration recommended. Passive foam fractionation/protein skimmer by action of aeration via designed chamber wit waste box,(For use on aircraft may have to be designed into centre of lid. ) [00294] Aeration water pump via netted bags of Zeolite and activated carbon. Note Zeolite is 98% calcium based, osmotic stone so will help buffer pH. Possibly using artificial seasalt to increase salinity as it has a huge buffering agent to control pH.

9. Testing of Devices

[00295] A working system prototype was built. The working system is believed to be more effective at controlling, recording and monitoring water qualities than any live seafood transportation system commercially available today.

[00296] Two fully functional, system tanks are being built for the Applicant. The 4,000 litre fiberglass seafood tanks are being custom built.

[00297] The two tanks will incorporate the software and technolog of the invention , and display all features of the invention. The -two system tanks will be used in scientific research and commercial smolt transfers.

[002 8] T e tanks will be used in laboratory trials that simulate smolt transfers between freshwater hatcheries and saltwater grow out farms. The tanks will be used in commercial trials to transfer smolt from freshwater hatcheries to their saltwater farms. The trials will be overseen by an independent body who will collect and analyse data.

[00299] The commercial trial is expected to prove transfers using the present invention allows more smolt to be transferred per litre of water, while increasing smolt welfare, decreasing smolt mortality, and increasing post transfer growth rates.

[00300] Advantageously, the present invention may reduce smolt mortality after transfer. The present invention achieves this be acclimatising smolt for an expected change in environmental conditions. This may reduce the post transfer mortality rate from 10% to 2%.

[00301 ] The present invention may also increase the post transfer growth rates of smolt. Currently it is usual for smolt to not feed for approximately two to four weeks after transfer. It is expected that the use of the present invention will reduce this period to an average of one week.

[00302] Another advantage of the present invention is that it may increase smolt (in weight) per litre of water in transfers. The present invention's filtration and water control components may ensure water qualities remain at levels beneficial to the health and welfare of smolt. As a result more smolt ma be transferred per litre of water in AWSM fitted tanks. [00303] Additionally, the present invention will create positive consumer sentiment. The use of the present invention will create positive consumer sentiment. The welfare of live seafood is a consideration for consumers, especially at the premium end of the market.

[00304] Also of significant advantage is that the present invention will allow smolt transfers to occur in wanner months of the year. The present invention will acclimatise smoit for expected changes in water temperature. This will prevent themial shock and a! low transfers to take place in warmer months.

[00305] Throughout the specification the aim has been to describe the preferred embodiments of the invention without limiting the inventio to any one embodiment or specific collection of features. It will therefore be appreciated by those of skill i the art that, in light of the instant disclosure, various modifications and changes can be made in the particular embodiments exemplified without departing fromthe scope of the present invention.

[00306] Ail computer programs, algorithms, patent and scientific literature referred to herein is incorporated herein by reference.