WO2024115526A1 - Process for breeding crustaceans - Google Patents

Process for breeding crustaceans Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024115526A1
WO2024115526A1 PCT/EP2023/083442 EP2023083442W WO2024115526A1 WO 2024115526 A1 WO2024115526 A1 WO 2024115526A1 EP 2023083442 W EP2023083442 W EP 2023083442W WO 2024115526 A1 WO2024115526 A1 WO 2024115526A1
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WIPO (PCT)
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hours
reproduction
tank
growth
period
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PCT/EP2023/083442
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French (fr)
Inventor
Sebastian FERRAZ
Christophe Maier
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Lagosta Sa
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Publication of WO2024115526A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024115526A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K61/00—Culture of aquatic animals
    • A01K61/50—Culture of aquatic animals of shellfish
    • A01K61/59—Culture of aquatic animals of shellfish of crustaceans, e.g. lobsters or shrimps

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a process for breeding crustaceans, such as lobsters. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • Crustaceans are an important subphylum that includes different animals, which are caught for different reasons, including as seafood and as raw material for different purposes. Many crustaceans are caught fresh from the open sea before they are either prepared as seafood or used for other purposes. In addition to that, different processes for breeding crustaceans have been developed.
  • farming of crustaceans such as lobsters
  • can be carried out in their natural environment for example in an open aquaculture system in which the crustaceans are kept in an enclosure in natural seawater.
  • Other known breeding processes for crustaceans include semi-intensive farming, e.g. of shrimps, and breeding in recirculating aquaculture systems.
  • the known breeding processes suffer from a range of disadvantages: In many known breeding processes, the growth of the individual crustaceans being bred as well as the overall population growth are limited. Consequently, known breeding processes only lead to small population growth rates, if any. Furthermore, the survival rate of crustaceans is limited in known breeding process and the health of the crustaceans being bred is poor.
  • the present disclosure relates to a breeding process that allows to control the growth of crustaceans (and/or a crustacean population) and/or to control the reproduction time of crustaceans, particularly of broodstock crustaceans.
  • the present disclosure relates to a breeding process for accelerating the growth of crustaceans and/or a crustacean population.
  • the present disclosure relates to a breeding process for reducing the reproduction time of crustaceans, particularly of broodstock crustaceans.
  • the present disclosure relates to a process for breeding crustaceans, wherein the crustaceans include a growth group and a reproduction group.
  • the growth group includes juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults, which are kept inside a growth tank.
  • the reproduction group includes broodstock, which are kept inside a reproduction tank.
  • the reproduction tank is separate from the growth tank.
  • the growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle.
  • Each photocycle comprises a dark period followed by a light period.
  • the light period lasts at least as long as the dark period.
  • the light period lasts no longer than five times the dark period. In other words, the light period lasts no longer than five times the duration of the dark period.
  • the crustaceans grow at least two times, preferably between approximately three and four times faster than the crustaceans grow under natural conditions in nature. Furthermore, the breeding process leads to a significantly increased population growth over time.
  • the conditions of the breeding process also ensure that the crustaceans are exposed to optimum conditions for each respective life cycle. As an example, crustaceans belonging to the growth group, such as juveniles, are preferably exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle that is shorter than for broodstock animals.
  • the breeding process disclosed herein thus meets the different needs of the different life cycle stages of crustaceans. By providing a growth tank that is separate from the reproduction tank, the breeding process also ensures that the two different life cycle groups do not interfere with each other, which leads to increased population growth and higher survival rates.
  • the disclosure relates to a process for breeding crustaceans, wherein the crustaceans include
  • Crustacean refers to the phylum arthropoda, subphylum crustacean.
  • the crustaceans are macro-crustaceans.
  • the crustaceans belong to the order decapoda.
  • the crustaceans are selected from the families nephropidae, palinuridae, astacoidea and parastacoidea.
  • the crustaceans are selected from lobsters, crayfish, caridea.
  • Lobster as used herein, comprises clawed lobsters and spiny lobsters and slipper lobsters. Clawed lobsters, as used herein, comprise the family nephropidae.
  • Spiny lobsters as used herein, comprise the family palinuridae.
  • Slipper lobsters comprise the family Scyllaridae.
  • the crustaceans are spiny lobsters.
  • the crustaceans are selected from the following: Palinuridae elephas, Palinuridae japonicas, Palinuridae homarus, Palinuridae strimpsoni, Palinuridae guttatus, Palinuridae versicolor, Palinuridae omatus, Palinuridae Jasus, Palinuridae Justitia, Palinuridae Linuparus, Palinuridae Nupalirus.
  • the crustaceans being bred according to the process disclosed herein all belong to the same family, preferably palinuridae (spiny lobsters). In an embodiment, the crustaceans being bred according to the process disclosed herein all belong to the same species, such as one of the following: Palinuridae elephas, Palinuridae japonicas, Palinuridae homarus, Palinuridae strimpsoni, Palinuridae guttatus, Palinuridae versicolor, Palinuridae omatus, Palinuridae Jasus, Palinuridae Justitia, Palinuridae Linu- parus, Palinuridae Nupalirus.
  • each tank includes only crustaceans belonging to the same family, preferably palinuridae (spiny lobsters). In an embodiment, each tank in- eludes only crustaceans belonging to the same species, preferably one of the species mentioned in the previous paragraph.
  • life cycle of a crustacean includes the following life cycle stages: 1 . Egg stage, followed by
  • the specific definition of the life cycle stages depends on the crustacean being bred.
  • the egg stage typically begins with egg fertilization and ends with hatching.
  • the eggs may, for example, be carried by a parent, such as the father or the mother.
  • the larval stage typically begins with hatching of the egg.
  • the larval stage may, for example, end when the crustacean begins to closely resemble the adult life cycle stage.
  • the larval stage may end when the outer appearance of the crustacean has significantly changed compared to its outer appearance immediately after hatching and begins to resemble the outer appearance of the crustacean in the adult life cycle stage.
  • the juvenile stage typically begins after the larval stage.
  • the juvenile stage may, for example, end when the crustacean has reached approximately 50% of the body length and/or body weight of pre-adult crustaceans.
  • the life cycle stages may, for example, be defined as follows:
  • Egg stage begins after egg fertilization and ends after hatching
  • Larval stage begins after hatching and lasts for at least 2 months;
  • Juvenile stage begins after the larval stage and ends when the carapace length exceeds 90 mm;
  • Pre-adult stage begins when the carapace length exceeds 90 mm and ends when the carapace length exceeds from 100 mm to 110 mm, such as 115 mm; 5.
  • Adult stage begins when the carapace length exceeds from 100 mm to
  • 110 mm such as 115 mm.
  • the larval stage may, for example, end when the color of the crustacean changes significantly.
  • the larval stage may end when the color of the crustacean changes from white or transparent to red.
  • the larvae may reach a transparent puerulus stage when the lobsters reach a total length of 20 mm.
  • broodstock are crustaceans capable of reproduction. Accordingly, one breeding aim associated with the reproduction group may be increased reproduction rates over time and/or increased reproduction success.
  • broodstock may for example comprise adults, preadults and/or juveniles. Preferably, however, broodstock are adults.
  • broodstock are adults having a body weight and/or length within the top 30%, such as top 20%, such as top 10% of all adult crustaceans.
  • broodstock are crustaceans, preferably lobsters such as spiny lobsters, having a carapace length that exceeds 130 mm.
  • the carapace in the context of lobsters such as spiny lobsters, does not include the abdomen, nor any claws or antennae.
  • the carapace length in the context of lobsters, such as spiny lobsters, refers to the distance from the front of the head, not including any antennae, to the beginning of, but not including the abdomen.
  • the growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to the regularly repeating photocycle. It is understood that the growth group and the reproduction group are each independently exposed to the regularly repeating photocycle. In other words, the growth group may be exposed to a different photocycle than the reproduction group.
  • Each photocycle comprises a dark period followed by a light period. In some embodiments, each photocycle consists of a dark period and a light period.
  • Each photocycle is regularly repeating. This means that, preferably, the photocycle repeats itself endlessly. Having a regular photocycle allows to control the growth of crustaceans (and/or a crustacean population) and/or to control the reproduction time of crustaceans, particularly of broodstock crustaceans.
  • the regularly repeating photocycle to which the growth group is exposed is at least two times shorter than the regularly repeating photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed.
  • a photocycle may last from 40 minutes to 14 hours, preferably from 4.5 hours to 7.5 hours.
  • the light period lasts from 30 minutes to 9 h, preferably from 3.5 hours to 4.5 hours more preferably 3.5 hours.
  • the dark period lasts from 10 minutes to 5 hours, preferably from 1 hour to 3 hours, more preferably 2.5 hours.
  • the light period may last from 3.5 hours to 4.5 hours, and the dark period may last from 1 hour to 3 hours.
  • the light period may last 3.5 hours, and the dark period may last 2.5 hours.
  • a photocycle may last from 14 hours to 34 hours, preferably from 21 hours to 28 hours.
  • the light period lasts from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 14 hours.
  • the dark period lasts from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 9 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 10 hours.
  • the light period may last from 12 hours to 17 hours, and the dark period may last from 9 hours to 11 hours.
  • the light period may last 14 hours, and the dark period may last 10 hours.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank are each equipped with an artificial light source to create an illuminance inside the respective tank.
  • the artificial light source may, for example, include an LED, such as a blue LED.
  • the inside of the growth tank and the inside of the reproduction tank are each illuminated by a blue LED.
  • the blue LED may, for example, be arranged above the water level of the respective tank or underneath the water level of the respective tank.
  • a tank comprises two or more blue LED’s, which can be arranged above and/or below the water level.
  • illumination such as illumination by a blue LED, is that the blue light emitted has a deep-water penetration.
  • the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank are higher than during the respective dark period. In some embodiments, during each respective light period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank, as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, exceeds 0.0001 lux, preferably exceeds 0.001 lux, preferably exceeds 0.01 lux, preferably exceeds 0.1 lux, preferably exceeds 1 lux, preferably exceeds 3 lux.
  • the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, exceeds 10 lux, preferably exceeds 100 lux. In some embodiments, during each respective light period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank, as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, does not exceed 20 lux, preferably does not exceed 10 lux, more preferably does not exceed 4 lux.
  • the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank do not exceed 0.1 lux, preferably do not exceed 0.01 lux, more preferably do not exceed 0.001 lux, more preferably do not exceed 0.0001 lux.
  • the illuminance of the light period and the dark period may each be different from the growth group and the reproduction group. However, in some embodiments, the illuminance of the light period is the same for the growth group and the reproduction group. In some embodiments, the illuminance of the dark period is the same for the growth group and the reproduction group.
  • the growth group and the reproduction group are each only fed during the dark period of each photocycle.
  • the growth group is fed once during the dark period of each photocycle, preferably 30 minutes after the start of the dark period of each photocycle.
  • the growth group is fed one feeding unit per feed per individual per photocycle for individuals weighing up to 400 g and two feeding units per feed per individual per photocycle for individuals weighing more than 400 g.
  • the reproduction group is fed two times during the dark period of each photocycle.
  • the reproduction group is fed for a first time 30 minutes after the start of the dark period of each photocycle and, for a second time, two hours before the end of the dark period of each photocycle.
  • the reproduction group is fed two feeding units per feed per individual per photocycle.
  • the feed in the unit “per feed” refers to one feeding event.
  • the feeding unit may, for example, be a pellet.
  • One feeding unit may, for example, have a weight from 0.3 g to 1 .2 g.
  • one feeding unit has a weight from 0.05 wt.-% to 0.5 wt.-% relative to the average weight of an adult crustacean.
  • the feeding units are provided to the crustaceans, particularly to the growth group, by a food distributor, preferably automatically according to a predetermined schedule.
  • the growth group includes, preferably consists of, juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults.
  • the growth group may consist only of juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults.
  • One breeding aim associated with the growth group may be enhanced and/or accelerated growth of the juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults.
  • the growth group is kept inside a growth tank.
  • the growth group may be kept inside one or more growth tanks.
  • the growth group is separated into a female growth group and a male growth group, wherein the female growth group includes only female individuals, which are kept inside a female growth tank, and the male growth group includes only male individuals, which are kept inside a male growth tank.
  • the growth group is further sub-divided into a juveniles growth group, a pre-adult growth group and an adult growth group, wherein the juveniles growth group includes juveniles, the preadult growth group includes pre-adults and the adult growth group includes adults.
  • the sub-division into male and female growth tank on the one hand and into juveniles growth group, pre-adult growth group and adult growth group on the other hand are independent of each other and may, for example, be combined with each other, e.g. to form a female juveniles growth group etc.
  • the sub-division into juveniles, pre-adults and adults was found to further increase growth of the crustaceans, possibly by minimizing food competition and/or harmful hierarchical behavior of the crustaceans.
  • the growth tank contains an aqueous medium having a water temperature from 16 °C to 19.5 °C, preferably from 17.5 °C to 18 °C.
  • the reproduction group includes, preferably consists of, broodstock.
  • the reproduction group comprises at least one male broodstock individual and one female broodstock individual.
  • other groups such as the growth group, may also include broodstock animals, as outlined above.
  • an individual broodstock animal may, for example, temporarily belong to the reproduction group and be kept inside the reproduction tank, and may subsequently be transferred to another group, such as the growth group, and be transferred to the growth tank.
  • each individual broodstock animal of the reproduction group stays in the reproduction group for at least 9 months, preferably for at least one year, more preferably for at least two years.
  • each individual broodstock animal is removed from the reproduction group after at least two years, such as after two to three years. This ensures renewal of genetic potential.
  • the reproduction tank contains an aqueous medium having a water temperature from 16 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 18 °C to 20 °C.
  • the reproduction group is exposed to a regularly repeating reproduction cycle, wherein each reproduction cycle comprises the following periods:
  • an egg incubation period lasting from two months to four months, preferably three months.
  • the reproduction preparation period is followed by the reproduction period, which is followed by the egg incubation period.
  • each reproduction cycle consists of the reproduction preparation period, followed by the reproduction period, followed by the egg incubation period.
  • the water temperature during the reproduction period is at least 0.5 °C, preferably from 1 °C to 3 °C, more preferably 2 °C, higher than during the reproduction preparation period. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the water temperature during the reproduction period is at least 0.5 °C, preferably from 1 °C to 3 °C, more preferably 2 °C, higher than during the egg incubation period. In an embodiment, during the reproduction preparation period, the water temperature is maintained from 14 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 17 °C to 19 °C, more preferably 18 °C.
  • the water temperature is maintained from 16 °C to 24 °C, preferably from 19 °C to 21 °C, more preferably 20 °C.
  • the water temperature is maintained from 14 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 17 °C to 19 °C, more preferably 18 °C. All previously disclosed embodiments may optionally be combined with each other.
  • the water temperature is maintained from 17 °C to 19 °C during the reproduction preparation period, from 19 °C to 21 °C during the reproduction period, and from 17 °C to 19 °C during the egg incubation period. It is understood that the water temperatures mentioned in this paragraph refer to the water temperature of the reproduction tank in the respective period.
  • the photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises, during the reproduction preparation period, a light period lasting from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 14 hours, and a dark period lasting from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 8 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 10 hours.
  • the photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises, during the reproduction period, a light period lasting from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 15 hours, and a dark period lasting from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 7 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 9 hours.
  • the photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises, during the egg incubation period, a light period lasting from 8 h to 20 h, preferably from 12 hours to 16 hours, more preferably 13 hours, and a dark period lasting from 4 hours to 16 hours, preferably from 9 hours to 12 hours, more preferably 11 hours. All previously disclosed embodiments may optionally be combined with each other.
  • the light period lasts from 12 hours to 17 hours during the reproduction preparation period, from 12 hours to 17 hours during the reproduction period, from 12 hours to 16 hours during the egg incubation period
  • the dark period lasts from 8 hours to 11 hours during the reproduction preparation period, from 7 hours to 11 hours during the reproduction period, and from 9 hours to 12 hours during the egg incubation period.
  • the indicated water temperature ranges and the indicated photocycles allow maximization of reproductive activity and reproductive efficiency and lead to enhanced population growth.
  • the water temperatures and photocycles also allow sustainably high reproductive activity.
  • Tank as used herein describes a container for containing an aqueous medium.
  • the tank contains the aqueous medium.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank each contain an aqueous medium and the crustaceans belonging to the growth group and the reproduction group, respectively.
  • the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may, for example, be made of metal or glass.
  • the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may optionally be partially or fully covered. This may retard evaporation.
  • the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may be closed, such as closed with a lid.
  • the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank typically have a volume to accommodate at least 1 individual crustaceans, preferably from 1 to 1 ’000 individual crustaceans, such as from 1 individual crustacean to 500 individual crustaceans, such as from 1 individual crustacean to 100 individual crustaceans.
  • the volume of the growth tank and the volume of the reproduction tank depends on the crustaceans being bred. The volume may also be chosen in accordance with the envisioned scale, e.g. industrial scale.
  • the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may each have a volume of at least or 125 cm 3 , preferably at least or TOGO cm 3 , such as at least or 8’000 cm 3 .
  • the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank each have a volume of up to or 10’000 m 3 , such as up to or 100 m 3 , such as up to or 50 m 3
  • the growth tank has a crustacean density from 25 individu- als/m 3 to 50 individuals/m 3 , preferably from 35 individuals/m 3 to 45 individuals/m 3
  • the reproduction tank has a crustacean density of up to 20 individuals/m 3 , preferably from 4 individuals/m 3 to 8 individuals/m 3 .
  • the indicated crustacean densities refer to lobsters, such as spiny lobsters. All densities provided herein in individuals/m 3 are provided relative to 1 m 3 of aqueous medium contained inside the tank inside which the respective individuals are kept.
  • the reproduction group is kept inside a reproduction tank.
  • the reproduction group may be kept inside one or more reproduction tanks.
  • the growth group may be kept inside one or more growth tanks.
  • Each reproduction tank is separate from each growth tank. This means that the reproduction tank and the growth tank are separated by a physical barrier. The physical barrier preferably prevents crustaceans from the growth group to enter the reproduction tank and vice versa.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank may be in direct or indirect fluidic communication with each other.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank may both be connected to the same purification tank.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank may also be connected to separate purification tanks.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank are each connected to a control module for monitoring and maintaining water parameters of the aque- ous medium of the growth tank and the reproduction tank, respectively.
  • the water parameters of the aqueous medium may, for example, include the temperature, the salinity, the magnesium concentration, the calcium concentration, the carbonate hardness level, the pH, the oxygen concentration, the ammonium concentration, the nitrite concentration, etc.
  • the aqueous medium inside the growth tank is maintained such that at least one, preferably all, of the following water parameters is maintained within the respective range:
  • nitrite concentration of less than 1 ppm.
  • the aqueous medium inside the reproduction tank is maintained such that at least one, preferably all, of the water parameters listed in the list immediately preceding this paragraph is maintained within the respective range.
  • the water parameters are preferably measured at 1 bar and 25 °C.
  • the indicated water parameters have the advantage that they lead to enhanced growth of the individual crustaceans being bred and to enhanced population growth.
  • the calcium concentration allows regular and fast renewal of the carapace and molts.
  • the growth tank is connected to a water recirculation system. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the reproduction tank is connected to a water recirculation system.
  • the recirculation system may, for example, be connected to the open sea.
  • the recirculation system typically also comprises a purification unit for water purification.
  • the aqueous medium contained inside the growth tank is recirculated, preferably continuously recirculated. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the aqueous medium contained inside the reproduction tank is recirculated, preferably continuously recirculated.
  • the aqueous medium contained inside the respective tank may, for example, be recirculated at a rate of at least one time, preferably from two to six times, more preferably four times, the volume of the aqueous medium contained inside the respective tank per hour.
  • the recirculation includes outflow of the aqueous medium contained inside the growth tank. Additionally or alternatively, the recirculation may include outflow of the aqueous medium contained inside the reproduction tank to a purification tank.
  • the growth tank and the reproduction tank may share the same purification tank or may each have a separate purification tank for purification.
  • the recirculation further includes, after outflow of the aqueous medium to the purification tank, purification of the aqueous medium inside the purification tank. In an embodiment, the recirculation further includes, after purification of the aqueous medium, inflow of purified aqueous medium from the purification tank to the growth tank. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the recirculation further includes, after purification of the aqueous medium, inflow of purified aqueous medium from the purification tank to the reproduction tank.
  • the purification step includes a monitoring step during which at least one of the following water parameters is measured: temperature, magnesium concentration, calcium concentration, carbonate hardness level, pH level, salinity, oxygen concentration, ammonium concentration, and/or nitrite concentration.
  • the purification step also includes a parameter maintenance step during which at least one of the following water parameters is maintained within the respective range:
  • KH carbonate hardness
  • nitrite concentration of less than 1 ppm.
  • the parameters are monitored daily to induce reproduction broodstock and accelerate growth.
  • the recirculation further comprises inflow of new water, pref-
  • the purification comprises one or more of the following purification steps:
  • - filtration which may comprise mechanical and/or biological filtration
  • UV disinfection such as UV disinfection
  • Fig. 1 shows embodiments of a male growth tank, a female growth tank and a reproduction tank, which may be used in the breeding process disclosed herein;
  • Fig. 2 shows an exemplary illustration of the photocycle
  • Fig. 3 shows an exemplary illustration of the reproduction cycle.
  • Figure 1 show embodiments of a male growth tank 2, a female growth tank 3 and a reproduction tank 4, which may be used in the breeding process disclosed herein.
  • the three tanks 2, 3, 4 each contain water as an aqueous medium.
  • the three tanks 2, 3, 4 further comprise a blue LED 6 for illuminating the inside of the respective tank during the light period 51 .
  • the male growth tank 2 contains only male juveniles, male pre-adults and male adults.
  • the female growth tank 3 contains only female juveniles, female pre-adults and female adults. By providing monosex cultures, growth is promoted due to avoidance of loss of energy in favor of reproduction.
  • the reproduction tank 4 contains at least one male and at least one female broodstock.
  • the crustaceans 1 being bred are spiny lobsters 1 .
  • the density of spiny lobster 1 inside the tanks 2, 3, 4 may be between 40 and 45 individuals per m 3 for individuals having a weight of less than 500 g and between 35 and 40 individuals per m 3 for individuals having a weight of at least 500 g.
  • crustaceans 1 are the only animals that are kept inside the growth tank 2, 3 and/or inside the reproduction tank 4. In other words, in these embodiments, the growth tank 2, 3 and/or the reproduction tank 4 do not contain other animals such as fish.
  • a system that provides a closed environment is used in the present breeding process. This facilitates controlling all the parameters as well as all the inputs (food: quality, quantity) and the outputs (excrement and uneaten food).
  • the following parameters are monitored and, if necessary, maintained daily to ensure optimal environment quality: temperature, pH, oxygen concentration, salinity, ammonium concentration and nitrite concentration of the water.
  • the water renewal may, for example, be adjusted daily to ensure a 10% to 15% hourly renewal. This allows the crustaceans’ natural environment to regenerate regularly in order to continuously provide them with the minerals, such as calcium and carbonates, necessary for their physiology, growth and renewal of their carapace and molts.
  • the renewal of the recirculated water is one to four times the volume of the tank per hour. This ensures a bacteria-free environment and low ammonia and nitrite levels.
  • the pH is continuously maintained between 7.8 and 8.2 to avoid any acidification of the environment which could reduce the growth and development of individuals, particularly during molting and reconstitution of the new exoskeleton.
  • the dissolved oxygen level is continuously maintained between 5.5 and 6.8 ppm (between 60/70% and 103% saturation) to avoid "bubble disease" due to the presence of dissolved nitrogen during oversaturation.
  • the salinity is continuously maintained between 35 and 37 per thousand, without exceeding the limit of 28 per thousand, which may cause mortalities by water absorption, turgidity of the cells and bursting of the latter.
  • the ammonia nitrogen concentration (NH4 + ) is continuously monitored to be below 0.1 ppm to ensure optimal well-being and growth.
  • the nitrites (NO2-) are continuously monitored to be below 1 ppm.
  • the level of metals and pesticides in the environment are monitored regularly because they may prove to be toxic even at concentrations only slightly higher than that of the marine environment.
  • the concentrations of the following metals and their salts are preferably monitored regularly: mangenese Mn, copper Cu, iron Fe, and zinc Zn.
  • activated charcoal is used to minimize metal and pesticide levels.
  • the concentration of dissolved oxygen is maintained and optionally increased by an aeration device, such as an aeration cone.
  • the light and temperature may also be monitored and adjusted daily to induce reproduction in broodstock, accelerate larval development and induce increased feed ingestion activity in juveniles and adults. This allows not only to reduce the necessary reproduction time as compared to the wild environment, but also to stagger different tanks in order to ensure reproduction throughout the year, and to induce up to four cycles of feeding, assimilation and excretion per day, as compared to on average once a day in the wild.
  • FIG. 2 shows an exemplary illustration of the photocycle 5.
  • the illustrated photocycle 5 consists of a light period 51 and a dark period 52.
  • the light period 51 is followed by the dark period 52, thus completing one photocycle 5.
  • another photocycle 5 begins again, commencing with the light period 51 .
  • the luminosity is preferably less than or equal to 0.001 PPFD (0.000083 Lux using monochromatic blue LEDs 6 at 450nm).
  • the photocycle 5 consists of a dark period 52 of 2.25 hours and a light period 51 of 3.75 hours.
  • the dark period 52 typically corresponds to assimilation and excretion.
  • the indicated photocycle 5 drastically increases the duration of the light cycle which, in the natural environment, corresponds to the “hunting/feeding” period.
  • the broodstock are fed three times a day under a photocycle 5, adjusted according to the stage of the reproduction cycle 7.
  • FIG. 3 shows an exemplary illustration of the reproduction cycle 7.
  • the illustrated reproduction cycle 71 consists of a reproduction preparation period 71 , a 5 reproduction period 72 and an egg incubation period 73.
  • the reproduction preparation period 71 is followed by the reproduction period 72, which in turn is followed by the egg incubation period 73, thus completing one reproduction cycle 7.
  • another reproduction cycle 7 begins again, commencing with the reproduction preparation period 71.
  • the reproduction preparation period 71 serves molting and preparation of reproductive organs.
  • a slight increase in temperature, such as of around 2 °C, may, for example, be used to induce reproduction.

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  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Marine Sciences & Fisheries (AREA)
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  • Farming Of Fish And Shellfish (AREA)

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a process for breeding crustaceans (1), wherein the crusta- ceans (1) include a growth group including juveniles, pre-adults and adults, which are kept inside a growth tank. The crustaceans (1) also include a reproduction group including broodstock, which are kept inside a reproduction tank, which is separate from the growth tank. The growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle (5), wherein each photocycle (5) comprises a dark period (52) followed by a light period (51) that lasts at least as long as the dark period (52) but no longer than five times the dark period (52).

Description

Process for Breeding Crustaceans
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a process for breeding crustaceans, such as lobsters. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Crustaceans are an important subphylum that includes different animals, which are caught for different reasons, including as seafood and as raw material for different purposes. Many crustaceans are caught fresh from the open sea before they are either prepared as seafood or used for other purposes. In addition to that, different processes for breeding crustaceans have been developed.
As an example, farming of crustaceans such as lobsters, can be carried out in their natural environment, for example in an open aquaculture system in which the crustaceans are kept in an enclosure in natural seawater. Other known breeding processes for crustaceans include semi-intensive farming, e.g. of shrimps, and breeding in recirculating aquaculture systems.
Despite the known breeding processes, the natural resources of crustaceans, such as lobsters, are being increasingly depleted due to intense fishing activities. The high demand for crustaceans cannot be fully met by the increasingly limited livestock of crustaceans in nature. Consequently, there is a need to restock crustaceans in the wild. In particular, there is a need to restock berried females and juveniles in the wild.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The known breeding processes suffer from a range of disadvantages: In many known breeding processes, the growth of the individual crustaceans being bred as well as the overall population growth are limited. Consequently, known breeding processes only lead to small population growth rates, if any. Furthermore, the survival rate of crustaceans is limited in known breeding process and the health of the crustaceans being bred is poor.
In many of the known breeding processes, there is only limited to no control over the parameters influencing the breeding process, such as environmental parameters, e.g. water temperature, light, oxygen concentration, pH, salinity, ammonium concentration, nitrate concentration, nitrite concentration and others. Furthermore, in many known breeding processes, there is little control over nutrition of the crustaceans being bread, regarding in particular the quality and the quantity of the nutrition. Additionally, many known breeding processes adversely affect the environment. Additionally, the location choice of breeding sites is frequently also limited, e.g. by the requirement of close proximity to the sea or the requirement in open aquaculture systems to establish enclosures in natural waters, such as seawater. Furthermore, depending on the breeding process used, the crusta- ceans may be exposed to dangerous, potentially lethal conditions, such as predators or dangerous changes in the breeding conditions, such as temperature shocks, pH shocks pollution, climate change, among others.
Consequently, there is a need to provide a process for breeding crustaceans that addresses at least some of these challenges. It is therefore the general objective of the present invention to advance the state of the art with respect to breeding processes for crustaceans, in particular lobsters such as spiny lobsters. In advantageous embodiments, the drawbacks of the prior art are overcome fully or partly. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a breeding process that allows to control the growth of crustaceans (and/or a crustacean population) and/or to control the reproduction time of crustaceans, particularly of broodstock crustaceans. In advantageous embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a breeding process for accelerating the growth of crustaceans and/or a crustacean population. In advantageous embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a breeding process for reducing the reproduction time of crustaceans, particularly of broodstock crustaceans.
According to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a process for breeding crustaceans, wherein the crustaceans include a growth group and a reproduction group. The growth group includes juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults, which are kept inside a growth tank. The reproduction group includes broodstock, which are kept inside a reproduction tank. The reproduction tank is separate from the growth tank. The growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle. Each photocycle comprises a dark period followed by a light period. The light period lasts at least as long as the dark period. The light period lasts no longer than five times the dark period. In other words, the light period lasts no longer than five times the duration of the dark period.
One advantage of this breeding process is that it leads to a significantly increased growth rate of the crustaceans being bred. In advantageous embodiments of the breeding process, the crustaceans grow at least two times, preferably between approximately three and four times faster than the crustaceans grow under natural conditions in nature. Furthermore, the breeding process leads to a significantly increased population growth over time. The conditions of the breeding process also ensure that the crustaceans are exposed to optimum conditions for each respective life cycle. As an example, crustaceans belonging to the growth group, such as juveniles, are preferably exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle that is shorter than for broodstock animals. The breeding process disclosed herein thus meets the different needs of the different life cycle stages of crustaceans. By providing a growth tank that is separate from the reproduction tank, the breeding process also ensures that the two different life cycle groups do not interfere with each other, which leads to increased population growth and higher survival rates.
In an embodiment, the disclosure relates to a process for breeding crustaceans, wherein the crustaceans include
- a growth group including juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults, which are kept inside a growth tank containing an aqueous medium, and a reproduction group including broodstock, which are kept inside a reproduction tank containing an aqueous medium, wherein the reproduction tank is separate from the growth tank; wherein the growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle, wherein each photocycle comprises a dark period followed by a light period, wherein the light period lasts at least as long as the dark period but no longer than five times the dark period.
CRUSTACEANS
Crustacean, as used herein, refers to the phylum arthropoda, subphylum crustacean. In an embodiment, the crustaceans are macro-crustaceans. In an embodiment, the crustaceans belong to the order decapoda. In an embodiment, the crustaceans are selected from the families nephropidae, palinuridae, astacoidea and parastacoidea. In an embodiment, the crustaceans are selected from lobsters, crayfish, caridea. Lobster, as used herein, comprises clawed lobsters and spiny lobsters and slipper lobsters. Clawed lobsters, as used herein, comprise the family nephropidae. Spiny lobsters, as used herein, comprise the family palinuridae. Slipper lobsters, as used herein, comprise the family Scyllaridae. In an embodiment according to any one of the aspects and embodiments disclosed herein, the crustaceans are spiny lobsters. In an embodiment, the crustaceans are selected from the following: Palinuridae elephas, Palinuridae japonicas, Palinuridae homarus, Palinuridae strimpsoni, Palinuridae guttatus, Palinuridae versicolor, Palinuridae omatus, Palinuridae Jasus, Palinuridae Justitia, Palinuridae Linuparus, Palinuridae Nupalirus. In an embodiment, the crustaceans being bred according to the process disclosed herein all belong to the same family, preferably palinuridae (spiny lobsters). In an embodiment, the crustaceans being bred according to the process disclosed herein all belong to the same species, such as one of the following: Palinuridae elephas, Palinuridae japonicas, Palinuridae homarus, Palinuridae strimpsoni, Palinuridae guttatus, Palinuridae versicolor, Palinuridae omatus, Palinuridae Jasus, Palinuridae Justitia, Palinuridae Linu- parus, Palinuridae Nupalirus.
In an embodiment, each tank includes only crustaceans belonging to the same family, preferably palinuridae (spiny lobsters). In an embodiment, each tank in- eludes only crustaceans belonging to the same species, preferably one of the species mentioned in the previous paragraph.
LIFE CYCLE
As used herein, the life cycle of a crustacean includes the following life cycle stages: 1 . Egg stage, followed by
2 . Larval stage, followed by
3 . Juvenile stage, followed by
4 . Pre-adult stage, followed by
5 . Adult stage. The specific definition of the life cycle stages depends on the crustacean being bred. The egg stage typically begins with egg fertilization and ends with hatching. During at least part of the egg stage, the eggs may, for example, be carried by a parent, such as the father or the mother. The larval stage typically begins with hatching of the egg. The larval stage may, for example, end when the crustacean begins to closely resemble the adult life cycle stage. As an example, the larval stage may end when the outer appearance of the crustacean has significantly changed compared to its outer appearance immediately after hatching and begins to resemble the outer appearance of the crustacean in the adult life cycle stage. The juvenile stage typically begins after the larval stage. Depending on the crustacean, the juvenile stage may, for example, end when the crustacean has reached approximately 50% of the body length and/or body weight of pre-adult crustaceans.
In an embodiment in which crustaceans are bred, preferably spiny lobsters, the life cycle stages may, for example, be defined as follows:
1 . Egg stage: begins after egg fertilization and ends after hatching;
2 . Larval stage: begins after hatching and lasts for at least 2 months;
3 . Juvenile stage: begins after the larval stage and ends when the carapace length exceeds 90 mm;
4 . Pre-adult stage: begins when the carapace length exceeds 90 mm and ends when the carapace length exceeds from 100 mm to 110 mm, such as 115 mm; 5. Adult stage: begins when the carapace length exceeds from 100 mm to
110 mm, such as 115 mm.
In an embodiment, the larval stage may, for example, end when the color of the crustacean changes significantly. As an example, for lobsters, such as spiny lobsters, the larval stage may end when the color of the crustacean changes from white or transparent to red. In an embodiment, the larvae may reach a transparent puerulus stage when the lobsters reach a total length of 20 mm.
As used herein, broodstock are crustaceans capable of reproduction. Accordingly, one breeding aim associated with the reproduction group may be increased reproduction rates over time and/or increased reproduction success. Depending on the crustacean being bred, broodstock may for example comprise adults, preadults and/or juveniles. Preferably, however, broodstock are adults. In some embodiments, broodstock are adults having a body weight and/or length within the top 30%, such as top 20%, such as top 10% of all adult crustaceans. In some embodiments, broodstock are crustaceans, preferably lobsters such as spiny lobsters, having a carapace length that exceeds 130 mm. As used herein, the carapace, in the context of lobsters such as spiny lobsters, does not include the abdomen, nor any claws or antennae. The carapace length, in the context of lobsters, such as spiny lobsters, refers to the distance from the front of the head, not including any antennae, to the beginning of, but not including the abdomen.
PHOTOCYCLE The growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to the regularly repeating photocycle. It is understood that the growth group and the reproduction group are each independently exposed to the regularly repeating photocycle. In other words, the growth group may be exposed to a different photocycle than the reproduction group. Each photocycle comprises a dark period followed by a light period. In some embodiments, each photocycle consists of a dark period and a light period. Each photocycle is regularly repeating. This means that, preferably, the photocycle repeats itself endlessly. Having a regular photocycle allows to control the growth of crustaceans (and/or a crustacean population) and/or to control the reproduction time of crustaceans, particularly of broodstock crustaceans.
In some embodiments, the regularly repeating photocycle to which the growth group is exposed is at least two times shorter than the regularly repeating photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed.
In some embodiments, for the growth group, a photocycle may last from 40 minutes to 14 hours, preferably from 4.5 hours to 7.5 hours. In some embodiments, for the growth group, the light period lasts from 30 minutes to 9 h, preferably from 3.5 hours to 4.5 hours more preferably 3.5 hours. In some embodiments, for the growth group, the dark period lasts from 10 minutes to 5 hours, preferably from 1 hour to 3 hours, more preferably 2.5 hours. In some embodiments, for the growth group, the light period may last from 3.5 hours to 4.5 hours, and the dark period may last from 1 hour to 3 hours. In some embodiments, for the growth group, the light period may last 3.5 hours, and the dark period may last 2.5 hours. These embodiments have the advantage that they lead to enhanced growth of the crustaceans belonging to the growth group. Furthermore, they also lead to enhanced growth of the overall crustacean population being bred. The indicated durations of the light and dark period were also found to be sustainable for the crustaceans.
In some embodiments, for the reproduction group, a photocycle may last from 14 hours to 34 hours, preferably from 21 hours to 28 hours. In some embodiments, for the reproduction group, the light period lasts from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 14 hours. In some embodiments, for the reproduction group, the dark period lasts from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 9 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 10 hours. In some embodiments, for the reproduction group, the light period may last from 12 hours to 17 hours, and the dark period may last from 9 hours to 11 hours. In some embodiments, for the reproduction group, the light period may last 14 hours, and the dark period may last 10 hours. These embodiments have the advantage that they lead to enhanced reproduction activity of the broodstock, and therefore also lead to enhanced growth of the overall crustacean population. The indicated durations of the light and dark period were also found to be sustainable for long-term reproduction activity of the broodstock crustaceans.
In some embodiment, the growth tank and the reproduction tank are each equipped with an artificial light source to create an illuminance inside the respective tank. The artificial light source may, for example, include an LED, such as a blue LED. In some embodiments, during each light period, the inside of the growth tank and the inside of the reproduction tank are each illuminated by a blue LED. The blue LED may, for example, be arranged above the water level of the respective tank or underneath the water level of the respective tank. Additionally, it is also possible that a tank comprises two or more blue LED’s, which can be arranged above and/or below the water level. One advantage of illumination, such as illumination by a blue LED, is that the blue light emitted has a deep-water penetration.
In some embodiments, during each respective light period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank are higher than during the respective dark period. In some embodiments, during each respective light period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank, as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, exceeds 0.0001 lux, preferably exceeds 0.001 lux, preferably exceeds 0.01 lux, preferably exceeds 0.1 lux, preferably exceeds 1 lux, preferably exceeds 3 lux. In an embodiment, during each respective light period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank, as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, exceeds 10 lux, preferably exceeds 100 lux. In some embodiments, during each respective light period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank, as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, does not exceed 20 lux, preferably does not exceed 10 lux, more preferably does not exceed 4 lux.
In some embodiments, during each respective dark period, the illuminance inside the growth tank and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank, as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm, preferably 650 mm, below the water surface, do not exceed 0.1 lux, preferably do not exceed 0.01 lux, more preferably do not exceed 0.001 lux, more preferably do not exceed 0.0001 lux. The illuminance of the light period and the dark period may each be different from the growth group and the reproduction group. However, in some embodiments, the illuminance of the light period is the same for the growth group and the reproduction group. In some embodiments, the illuminance of the dark period is the same for the growth group and the reproduction group.
In an embodiment, the growth group and the reproduction group are each only fed during the dark period of each photocycle. In an embodiment, the growth group is fed once during the dark period of each photocycle, preferably 30 minutes after the start of the dark period of each photocycle. In an embodiment, the growth group is fed one feeding unit per feed per individual per photocycle for individuals weighing up to 400 g and two feeding units per feed per individual per photocycle for individuals weighing more than 400 g. In an embodiment, the reproduction group is fed two times during the dark period of each photocycle. In an embodiment, the reproduction group is fed for a first time 30 minutes after the start of the dark period of each photocycle and, for a second time, two hours before the end of the dark period of each photocycle. In an embodiment, the reproduction group is fed two feeding units per feed per individual per photocycle. The feed in the unit “per feed” refers to one feeding event. The feeding unit may, for example, be a pellet. One feeding unit may, for example, have a weight from 0.3 g to 1 .2 g. In an embodiment, one feeding unit has a weight from 0.05 wt.-% to 0.5 wt.-% relative to the average weight of an adult crustacean. In an embodiment, the feeding units are provided to the crustaceans, particularly to the growth group, by a food distributor, preferably automatically according to a predetermined schedule. GROWTH GROUP
The growth group includes, preferably consists of, juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults. As an example, the growth group may consist only of juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults. One breeding aim associated with the growth group may be enhanced and/or accelerated growth of the juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults. The growth group is kept inside a growth tank. As an example, the growth group may be kept inside one or more growth tanks.
In an embodiment, the growth group is separated into a female growth group and a male growth group, wherein the female growth group includes only female individuals, which are kept inside a female growth tank, and the male growth group includes only male individuals, which are kept inside a male growth tank. One advantage of this embodiment is that the crustaceans belonging to the growth group do not engage in reproductive activities but instead their resources and energy are focused on growth. In an embodiment, the growth group is further sub-divided into a juveniles growth group, a pre-adult growth group and an adult growth group, wherein the juveniles growth group includes juveniles, the preadult growth group includes pre-adults and the adult growth group includes adults. The sub-division into male and female growth tank on the one hand and into juveniles growth group, pre-adult growth group and adult growth group on the other hand are independent of each other and may, for example, be combined with each other, e.g. to form a female juveniles growth group etc. The sub-division into juveniles, pre-adults and adults was found to further increase growth of the crustaceans, possibly by minimizing food competition and/or harmful hierarchical behavior of the crustaceans. In an embodiment, the growth tank contains an aqueous medium having a water temperature from 16 °C to 19.5 °C, preferably from 17.5 °C to 18 °C.
REPRODUCTION GROUP
The reproduction group includes, preferably consists of, broodstock. In a typical embodiment, the reproduction group comprises at least one male broodstock individual and one female broodstock individual. In some embodiments, other groups, such as the growth group, may also include broodstock animals, as outlined above. As an example, an individual broodstock animal may, for example, temporarily belong to the reproduction group and be kept inside the reproduction tank, and may subsequently be transferred to another group, such as the growth group, and be transferred to the growth tank. In some embodiments, each individual broodstock animal of the reproduction group stays in the reproduction group for at least 9 months, preferably for at least one year, more preferably for at least two years. This ensures that the broodstock animals are exposed to reproduction enhancing conditions for a sufficiently long time to achieve enhanced reproduction. In some embodiments, each individual broodstock animal is removed from the reproduction group after at least two years, such as after two to three years. This ensures renewal of genetic potential.
In an embodiment, the reproduction tank contains an aqueous medium having a water temperature from 16 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 18 °C to 20 °C.
REPRODUCTION CYCLE In an embodiment, the reproduction group is exposed to a regularly repeating reproduction cycle, wherein each reproduction cycle comprises the following periods:
- a reproduction preparation period lasting from two months to six months, preferably four months;
- a reproduction period lasting from one month to three months, preferably two months, and
- an egg incubation period lasting from two months to four months, preferably three months.
Preferably, the reproduction preparation period is followed by the reproduction period, which is followed by the egg incubation period. In an embodiment, each reproduction cycle consists of the reproduction preparation period, followed by the reproduction period, followed by the egg incubation period.
In an embodiment, the water temperature during the reproduction period is at least 0.5 °C, preferably from 1 °C to 3 °C, more preferably 2 °C, higher than during the reproduction preparation period. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the water temperature during the reproduction period is at least 0.5 °C, preferably from 1 °C to 3 °C, more preferably 2 °C, higher than during the egg incubation period. In an embodiment, during the reproduction preparation period, the water temperature is maintained from 14 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 17 °C to 19 °C, more preferably 18 °C. In an embodiment, during the reproduction period, the water temperature is maintained from 16 °C to 24 °C, preferably from 19 °C to 21 °C, more preferably 20 °C. In an embodiment, during the egg incubation period, the water temperature is maintained from 14 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 17 °C to 19 °C, more preferably 18 °C. All previously disclosed embodiments may optionally be combined with each other. As an example, in an embodiment, the water temperature is maintained from 17 °C to 19 °C during the reproduction preparation period, from 19 °C to 21 °C during the reproduction period, and from 17 °C to 19 °C during the egg incubation period. It is understood that the water temperatures mentioned in this paragraph refer to the water temperature of the reproduction tank in the respective period.
In an embodiment, the photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises, during the reproduction preparation period, a light period lasting from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 14 hours, and a dark period lasting from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 8 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 10 hours. In an embodiment, the photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises, during the reproduction period, a light period lasting from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 15 hours, and a dark period lasting from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 7 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 9 hours. In an embodiment, the photocycle to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises, during the egg incubation period, a light period lasting from 8 h to 20 h, preferably from 12 hours to 16 hours, more preferably 13 hours, and a dark period lasting from 4 hours to 16 hours, preferably from 9 hours to 12 hours, more preferably 11 hours. All previously disclosed embodiments may optionally be combined with each other. As an example, in an embodiment, the light period lasts from 12 hours to 17 hours during the reproduction preparation period, from 12 hours to 17 hours during the reproduction period, from 12 hours to 16 hours during the egg incubation period, and the dark period lasts from 8 hours to 11 hours during the reproduction preparation period, from 7 hours to 11 hours during the reproduction period, and from 9 hours to 12 hours during the egg incubation period.
The indicated water temperature ranges and the indicated photocycles allow maximization of reproductive activity and reproductive efficiency and lead to enhanced population growth. The water temperatures and photocycles also allow sustainably high reproductive activity.
GROWTH TANK AND REPRODUCTION TANK
Tank as used herein describes a container for containing an aqueous medium. Typically, the tank contains the aqueous medium. Typically, the growth tank and the reproduction tank each contain an aqueous medium and the crustaceans belonging to the growth group and the reproduction group, respectively. The growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may, for example, be made of metal or glass. The growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may optionally be partially or fully covered. This may retard evaporation. As an example, the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may be closed, such as closed with a lid.
The growth tank and/or the reproduction tank typically have a volume to accommodate at least 1 individual crustaceans, preferably from 1 to 1 ’000 individual crustaceans, such as from 1 individual crustacean to 500 individual crustaceans, such as from 1 individual crustacean to 100 individual crustaceans. The volume of the growth tank and the volume of the reproduction tank depends on the crustaceans being bred. The volume may also be chosen in accordance with the envisioned scale, e.g. industrial scale. As an example, the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank may each have a volume of at least or 125 cm3, preferably at least or TOGO cm3, such as at least or 8’000 cm3. In an embodiment, the growth tank and/or the reproduction tank each have a volume of up to or 10’000 m3, such as up to or 100 m3, such as up to or 50 m3
In an embodiment, the growth tank has a crustacean density from 25 individu- als/m3 to 50 individuals/m3, preferably from 35 individuals/m3 to 45 individuals/m3 In an embodiment, the reproduction tank has a crustacean density of up to 20 individuals/m3, preferably from 4 individuals/m3 to 8 individuals/m3. Preferably, the indicated crustacean densities refer to lobsters, such as spiny lobsters. All densities provided herein in individuals/m3 are provided relative to 1 m3 of aqueous medium contained inside the tank inside which the respective individuals are kept.
The reproduction group is kept inside a reproduction tank. As an example, the reproduction group may be kept inside one or more reproduction tanks. Similarly, the growth group may be kept inside one or more growth tanks. Each reproduction tank is separate from each growth tank. This means that the reproduction tank and the growth tank are separated by a physical barrier. The physical barrier preferably prevents crustaceans from the growth group to enter the reproduction tank and vice versa. The growth tank and the reproduction tank may be in direct or indirect fluidic communication with each other. In particular, the growth tank and the reproduction tank may both be connected to the same purification tank. Alternatively, the growth tank and the reproduction tank may also be connected to separate purification tanks.
In an embodiment, the growth tank and the reproduction tank are each connected to a control module for monitoring and maintaining water parameters of the aque- ous medium of the growth tank and the reproduction tank, respectively. The water parameters of the aqueous medium may, for example, include the temperature, the salinity, the magnesium concentration, the calcium concentration, the carbonate hardness level, the pH, the oxygen concentration, the ammonium concentration, the nitrite concentration, etc. In an embodiment, the aqueous medium inside the growth tank is maintained such that at least one, preferably all, of the following water parameters is maintained within the respective range:
- a magnesium concentration from 1200 ppm to 1400 ppm;
- a calcium concentration from 400 ppm to 420 ppm; - a carbonate hardness (KH) level from 8 to 10 dKH (143,2 to 179 ppm);
- a pH level from 7.8 to 8.2;
- a salinity from 28 per thousand to 37 per thousand; an oxygen concentration from 5 ppm to 7 ppm; an ammonium concentration of less than 0.1 ppm; and/or
- a nitrite concentration of less than 1 ppm.
In an embodiment, the aqueous medium inside the reproduction tank is maintained such that at least one, preferably all, of the water parameters listed in the list immediately preceding this paragraph is maintained within the respective range. The water parameters are preferably measured at 1 bar and 25 °C.
The indicated water parameters have the advantage that they lead to enhanced growth of the individual crustaceans being bred and to enhanced population growth. As an example, the calcium concentration allows regular and fast renewal of the carapace and molts.
RECIRCULATION AND PURIFICATION
In an embodiment, the growth tank is connected to a water recirculation system. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the reproduction tank is connected to a water recirculation system. The recirculation system may, for example, be connected to the open sea. The recirculation system typically also comprises a purification unit for water purification.
In an embodiment, the aqueous medium contained inside the growth tank is recirculated, preferably continuously recirculated. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the aqueous medium contained inside the reproduction tank is recirculated, preferably continuously recirculated. The aqueous medium contained inside the respective tank may, for example, be recirculated at a rate of at least one time, preferably from two to six times, more preferably four times, the volume of the aqueous medium contained inside the respective tank per hour.
In an embodiment, the recirculation includes outflow of the aqueous medium contained inside the growth tank. Additionally or alternatively, the recirculation may include outflow of the aqueous medium contained inside the reproduction tank to a purification tank. The growth tank and the reproduction tank may share the same purification tank or may each have a separate purification tank for purification.
In an embodiment, the recirculation further includes, after outflow of the aqueous medium to the purification tank, purification of the aqueous medium inside the purification tank. In an embodiment, the recirculation further includes, after purification of the aqueous medium, inflow of purified aqueous medium from the purification tank to the growth tank. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the recirculation further includes, after purification of the aqueous medium, inflow of purified aqueous medium from the purification tank to the reproduction tank.
In an embodiment, the purification step includes a monitoring step during which at least one of the following water parameters is measured: temperature, magnesium concentration, calcium concentration, carbonate hardness level, pH level, salinity, oxygen concentration, ammonium concentration, and/or nitrite concentration. In an embodiment, the purification step also includes a parameter maintenance step during which at least one of the following water parameters is maintained within the respective range:
- a magnesium concentration from 1200 ppm to 1400 ppm;
5 - a calcium concentration from 400 ppm to 420 ppm;
- an carbonate hardness (KH) level from 8 to 10 dKH (143,2 to 179 ppm);
- a pH level from 7.8 to 8.2;
- a salinity from 28 per thousand to 37 per thousand;
- an oxygen concentration from 5 ppm to 7 ppm; w - an ammonium concentration of less than 0.1 ppm; and/or
- a nitrite concentration of less than 1 ppm.
In an embodiment, the parameters are monitored daily to induce reproduction broodstock and accelerate growth.
In an embodiment, the recirculation further comprises inflow of new water, pref-
15 erably sea water, more preferably purified sea water, into the purification tank. In an embodiment, the new water makes up at least 5%, preferably from 10% to 15%, of the total volume of water flowing into the purification tank per hour. In an embodiment, the purification comprises one or more of the following purification steps:
- filtration, which may comprise mechanical and/or biological filtration;
- microfiltration - treatment with charcoal and/or zeolith;
- treatment with protein skimmer;
- disinfection, such as UV disinfection;
- degassing, preferably in a degassing column; and/or
- aeration, preferably using an aeration cone. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the disclosure. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings il- lustrate various embodiments, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operation of the concepts disclosed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings, which should not be considered limiting to the invention described in the appended claims. The drawings are showing:
Fig. 1 shows embodiments of a male growth tank, a female growth tank and a reproduction tank, which may be used in the breeding process disclosed herein;
Fig. 2 shows an exemplary illustration of the photocycle;
Fig. 3 shows an exemplary illustration of the reproduction cycle.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
Reference will now be made in detail to certain embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all features are shown. Indeed, embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.
Figure 1 show embodiments of a male growth tank 2, a female growth tank 3 and a reproduction tank 4, which may be used in the breeding process disclosed herein. The three tanks 2, 3, 4 each contain water as an aqueous medium. In the illustrated embodiment, the three tanks 2, 3, 4 further comprise a blue LED 6 for illuminating the inside of the respective tank during the light period 51 . The male growth tank 2 contains only male juveniles, male pre-adults and male adults. The female growth tank 3 contains only female juveniles, female pre-adults and female adults. By providing monosex cultures, growth is promoted due to avoidance of loss of energy in favor of reproduction.
The reproduction tank 4 contains at least one male and at least one female broodstock. In the illustrated embodiment, the crustaceans 1 being bred are spiny lobsters 1 . The density of spiny lobster 1 inside the tanks 2, 3, 4 may be between 40 and 45 individuals per m3 for individuals having a weight of less than 500 g and between 35 and 40 individuals per m3 for individuals having a weight of at least 500 g.
In an embodiment, crustaceans 1 are the only animals that are kept inside the growth tank 2, 3 and/or inside the reproduction tank 4. In other words, in these embodiments, the growth tank 2, 3 and/or the reproduction tank 4 do not contain other animals such as fish.
In an embodiment, a system that provides a closed environment is used in the present breeding process. This facilitates controlling all the parameters as well as all the inputs (food: quality, quantity) and the outputs (excrement and uneaten food).
In an embodiment of the breeding process, the following parameters are monitored and, if necessary, maintained daily to ensure optimal environment quality: temperature, pH, oxygen concentration, salinity, ammonium concentration and nitrite concentration of the water. The water renewal may, for example, be adjusted daily to ensure a 10% to 15% hourly renewal. This allows the crustaceans’ natural environment to regenerate regularly in order to continuously provide them with the minerals, such as calcium and carbonates, necessary for their physiology, growth and renewal of their carapace and molts. In an embodiment, the renewal of the recirculated water is one to four times the volume of the tank per hour. This ensures a bacteria-free environment and low ammonia and nitrite levels.
In an embodiment, the pH is continuously maintained between 7.8 and 8.2 to avoid any acidification of the environment which could reduce the growth and development of individuals, particularly during molting and reconstitution of the new exoskeleton. In an embodiment, the dissolved oxygen level is continuously maintained between 5.5 and 6.8 ppm (between 60/70% and 103% saturation) to avoid "bubble disease" due to the presence of dissolved nitrogen during oversaturation. In an embodiment, the salinity is continuously maintained between 35 and 37 per thousand, without exceeding the limit of 28 per thousand, which may cause mortalities by water absorption, turgidity of the cells and bursting of the latter. In an embodiment, the ammonia nitrogen concentration (NH4+) is continuously monitored to be below 0.1 ppm to ensure optimal well-being and growth. Too high a concentration may have a toxic effect on individuals and could impact their appetite. In an embodiment, the nitrites (NO2-) are continuously monitored to be below 1 ppm. Preferably, the level of metals and pesticides in the environment are monitored regularly because they may prove to be toxic even at concentrations only slightly higher than that of the marine environment. In particular, the concentrations of the following metals and their salts are preferably monitored regularly: mangenese Mn, copper Cu, iron Fe, and zinc Zn. In an embodiment, activated charcoal is used to minimize metal and pesticide levels. In an embodiment, the concentration of dissolved oxygen is maintained and optionally increased by an aeration device, such as an aeration cone.
The light and temperature may also be monitored and adjusted daily to induce reproduction in broodstock, accelerate larval development and induce increased feed ingestion activity in juveniles and adults. This allows not only to reduce the necessary reproduction time as compared to the wild environment, but also to stagger different tanks in order to ensure reproduction throughout the year, and to induce up to four cycles of feeding, assimilation and excretion per day, as compared to on average once a day in the wild.
Figure 2 shows an exemplary illustration of the photocycle 5. The illustrated photocycle 5 consists of a light period 51 and a dark period 52. The light period 51 is followed by the dark period 52, thus completing one photocycle 5. Subsequently, another photocycle 5 begins again, commencing with the light period 51 .
During the dark period 52, the luminosity is preferably less than or equal to 0.001 PPFD (0.000083 Lux using monochromatic blue LEDs 6 at 450nm).
In an embodiment, for the growth group, particularly for the juveniles, the photocycle 5 consists of a dark period 52 of 2.25 hours and a light period 51 of 3.75 hours. The dark period 52 typically corresponds to assimilation and excretion. The indicated photocycle 5 drastically increases the duration of the light cycle which, in the natural environment, corresponds to the “hunting/feeding” period. In an embodiment, the broodstock are fed three times a day under a photocycle 5, adjusted according to the stage of the reproduction cycle 7.
Figure 3 shows an exemplary illustration of the reproduction cycle 7. The illustrated reproduction cycle 71 consists of a reproduction preparation period 71 , a 5 reproduction period 72 and an egg incubation period 73. The reproduction preparation period 71 is followed by the reproduction period 72, which in turn is followed by the egg incubation period 73, thus completing one reproduction cycle 7. Subsequently, another reproduction cycle 7 begins again, commencing with the reproduction preparation period 71. w Typically, the reproduction preparation period 71 serves molting and preparation of reproductive organs. A slight increase in temperature, such as of around 2 °C, may, for example, be used to induce reproduction.
LIST OF DESIGNATIONS
1 crustaceans
2 male growth tank
3 female growth tank
5 4 reproduction tank
5 photocycle
51 light period
52 dark period
6 LED w 7 reproduction cycle
71 reproduction preparation period
72 reproduction period
73 egg incubation period

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS
1 . Process for breeding crustaceans (1 ), wherein the crustaceans (1 ) include:
- a growth group including juveniles, pre-adults and/or adults, which are kept inside a growth tank (2, 3) containing an aqueous medium, and
- a reproduction group including broodstock, which are kept inside a reproduction tank (4) containing an aqueous medium, wherein the reproduction tank (4) is separate from the growth tank (2, 3); wherein the growth group and the reproduction group are each exposed to a regularly repeating photocycle (5), wherein each photocycle (5) comprises a dark period (52) followed by a light period (51 ), wherein the light period (51 ) lasts at least as long as the dark period (52) but no longer than five times the dark period (52).
2. Process according to claim 1 , wherein the regularly repeating photocycle (5) to which the growth group is exposed is at least two times shorter than the regularly repeating photocycle (5) to which the reproduction group is exposed.
3. Process according to claim 1 or 2, wherein for the growth group, the light period (51 ) lasts from 30 minutes to 9 h, preferably from 3.5 hours to 4.5 hours more preferably 3.5 hours, and the dark period (52) lasts from 10 minutes to 5 hours, preferably from 1 hour to 3 hours, more preferably 2.5 hours. Process according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein for the reproduction group, the light period (51 ) lasts from 8 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably from 13 hours to 15 hours, and the dark period (52) lasts from 4 hours to 16 hours, preferably from 7 hours to 12 hours, more preferably from 9 hours to 11 hours. Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the growth tank (2, 3) and the reproduction tank (4) are each equipped with an artificial light source (6), such as a blue LED, to create an illuminance inside the respective tank (2, 3, 4). Process according to claim 5, wherein during each respective dark period (52), the illuminance inside the growth tank (2, 3) and the illuminance inside the reproduction tank (3), as measured at 600 mm to 700 mm below the water surface, do not exceed 0.1 lux, preferably do not exceed 0.01 lux, more preferably do not exceed 0.001 lux, more preferably do not exceed 0.0001 lux. Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the growth tank (2, 3) contains an aqueous medium having a water temperature from 16 °C to 19.5 °C, preferably from 17.5 °C to 18 °C. . Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the growth tank (2, 3) has a crustacean density from 25 individuals/m3 to 50 individuals/m3, preferably from 35 individuals/m3 to 45 individuals/m3. . Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the growth group is separated into a female growth group and a male growth group, wherein the female growth group includes only female individuals, which are kept inside a female growth tank (2, 3), and the male growth group includes only male individuals, which are kept inside a male growth tank (2, 3). 0. Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the aqueous medium contained in the reproduction tank (4) has a water temperature from 16 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 18 °C to 20 °C. 1 . Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein reproduction tank (4) has a crustacean density of up to 20 individuals/m3, preferably from 4 individuals/m3 to 8 individuals/m3. 2. Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the reproduction group is exposed to a regularly repeating reproduction cycle (7), wherein each reproduction cycle (7) comprises the following periods:
- a reproduction preparation period (71 ) lasting from two months to six months, preferably four months, a reproduction period (72) lasting from one month to three months, preferably two months, and - an egg incubation period (73) lasting from two months to four months, preferably three months; wherein the water temperature during the reproduction period (72) is at least 0.5 °C, preferably from 1 °C to 3 °C, more preferably 2 °C, higher than during 5 the reproduction preparation period (71 ) and/or during the egg incubation period (73).
13. Process according to the previous claim, wherein the water temperature
- during the reproduction preparation period (71 ) is maintained from
14 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 17 °C to 19 °C, more preferably 18 w °C;
- during the reproduction period (72) is maintained from 16 °C to 24 °C, preferably from 19 °C to 21 °C, more preferably 20 °C; and
- during the egg incubation period (73) is maintained from 14 °C to 22 °C, preferably from 17 °C to 19 °C, more preferably 18 °C.
15 14. Process according to one of the two previous claims, wherein the photocycle (5) to which the reproduction group is exposed comprises:
- during the reproduction preparation period (71 ), a light period (51 ) lasting from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 14 hours, and a dark period (52) lasting from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 8 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 10 hours;
- during the reproduction period (72), a light period (51 ) lasting from 10 h to 22 h, preferably from 12 hours to 17 hours, more preferably 15 hours, and a dark period (52) lasting from 4 hours to 12 hours, preferably from 7 hours to 11 hours, more preferably 9 hours; and
- during the egg incubation period (73), a light period (51 ) lasting from 8 h to 20 h, preferably from 12 hours to 16 hours, more preferably 13 hours, and a dark period (52) lasting from 4 hours to 16 hours, preferably from 9 hours to 12 hours, more preferably 11 hours. 5. Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the crustaceans (1 ) are lobsters, particularly spiny lobsters, such as one or more of the following species: Palinuridae elephas, Palinuridae japonicas, Palinuridae homarus, Palinuridae strimpsoni, Palinuridae guttatus, Palinuridae versicolor, Palinuridae omatus, Palinuridae Jasus, Palinuridae Justitia, Palinuridae Linuparus, Palinuridae Nupalirus. 6. Process according to one of the previous claims, wherein the aqueous medium contained inside the growth tank (2, 3) and/or the aqueous medium contained inside the reproduction tank (4) is recirculated, preferably continuously recirculated, at a rate of at least one time, preferably from two to six times, more preferably four times, the volume of the aqueous medium contained inside the respective tank (2, 3, 4) per hour.
17. Process according to the previous claim, wherein the recirculation includes a. outflow of the aqueous medium contained inside the growth tank (2, 3) and/or outflow of the aqueous medium contained inside the reproduction tank (4) to a purification tank,
5 b. purification of the aqueous medium inside the purification tank, c. inflow of purified aqueous medium from the purification tank to the growth tank (2, 3) and/or inflow of the purified aqueous medium from the purification tank to the reproduction tank (4).
18. Process according to the previous claim, wherein the recirculation further w comprises inflow of new water, preferably sea water, more preferably purified sea water, into the purification tank, wherein the new water preferably makes up at least 5%, more preferably from 10% to 15%, of the total volume of water flowing into the purification tank per hour.
PCT/EP2023/083442 2022-11-29 2023-11-29 Process for breeding crustaceans WO2024115526A1 (en)

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