Arnstein Hosaas, Innovation Director at AKVA group, is one of the pioneers behind deep farming, continuously improving the concept based on current operations.
“We have developed an effective methodology and built a high level of expertise to adapt Nautilus to each location and farmer’s needs. The results have been outstanding, and close collaboration with farmers is crucial for further technological development,” says Hosaas.
Focus on fish welfare
Hosaas believes that combining deep farming with waterborne feeding and advanced monitoring technology can address several of the industry’s biggest challenges. New research from NTNU in Trondheim, Norway and feedback from fish farmers suggest that fish growth and health can improve in deep farming, where good water quality and fewer stress factors provide an ideal growth environment.
“Our deep farming technology significantly reduces the risk of sea lice infestations. In many cases, farmers have been able to avoid treatments throughout an entire generation. Precision in all aspects of operations is vital for achieving the best possible results,” says Hosaas.
Development of a new air dome
Through close collaboration with farmers, the new air dome for the Nautilus concept is nearly market-ready. The solution offers increased stability, predictable buoyancy, and smoother feeding in all conditions. Feedback from partners using the new dome has been highly positive.
The dome is both more robust and stable, and its self-righting design ensures the fish have constant access to a stable air pocket, even in the most demanding conditions.
“The feedback from farmers has been essential for development. Great emphasis has been placed on making the dome as simple and safe as possible to work with. Additionally, it is now possible to have a camera inside the dome. Feed distribution has also been significantly improved. Overall, the second generation of the air dome helps make deep farming more efficient and accessible,” says Hosaas.
Optimal control and monitoring
As part of the technological development related to deep farming, AKVA group offers the AKVA smarteye modular feeding camera. This camera, in addition to standard functionality, can be equipped with lights and sensors. The module is a 4-in-1 solution for measuring oxygen, temperature, salinity, and depth, making it highly practical in Nautilus.
“With real-time data, feeding can be adjusted to reduce costs and improve growth,” explains Mirosław Pietrzak, Innovation Engineering Manager at AKVA group.
This technology integrates seamlessly with AKVA connect 4 and the continuous development of the AI-driven AKVA observe platform, providing fish farmers with precise data to optimize operations.
AKVA submerged leads in lice control and biomass measurement, offering highly effective biomass management for both conventional and deep farming.
Enhanced fish health through technology and knowledge
Sustainable growth in the aquaculture industry requires a strong focus on fish welfare. This is achieved through deep farming and using robust smolt, digital solutions, and improved knowledge.
AKVA group works closely with research environments to ensure a sustainable and profitable future for the aquaculture industry.
“Shaping the future of this industry with a focus on sustainability and technology is incredibly rewarding. It benefits both fish and people,” says Hosaas.
