Cages for aquaculture

Floating cages for aquaculture are structures used for fish farming in open natural environments, typically in the sea or lakes. They allow fish to be kept in a controlled environment while utilizing the surrounding water for their growth.

Main Features:

Floating Structure:

• Made of plastic, metal, or foam floats to ensure stability and buoyancy.
• Held in place by an anchoring system adapted to local conditions (currents, depth, seabed type).

Nets and Meshes:

• Made of nylon, polyethylene, or materials treated against wear and predator attacks.
• Mesh size varies depending on the species farmed and its growth stage.

Feeding and Monitoring Systems:

• Manual or automatic feeding to optimize growth.
• Sensors to monitor water quality (oxygen, temperature, salinity).

Types of Cages:

• Rigid: Solid frame, used in calm waters.
• Flexible: More suitable for exposed environments (offshore).

Advantages of Floating Cages:

• Efficient use of aquatic space without requiring land-based infrastructure.
• Low environmental impact if properly managed (cage rotation, controlled feeding).
• Optimized production through precise monitoring of growth conditions.

Challenges and Drawbacks:

• Risk of local pollution due to the accumulation of organic waste (feces, uneaten food).
• Exposure to predators and diseases, requiring preventive measures.
• Dependence on weather conditions, especially at sea (storms, strong waves).

These cages are commonly used for farming fish such as salmon, tilapia, sea bass, or sea bream. They provide an efficient solution to meet the growing demand for aquaculture products while preserving natural resources.