The invention, developed by the Aquaculture Research Group (GIA) and the Biodiversity and Conservation Research Group (BIOCON) belonging to the ULPGC university institute, proposes an innovative system for the automated collection of fish eggs and other aquatic organisms in a controlled environment.
This technology, protected by a recently published patent, improves efficiency, animal welfare and the sustainability of aquaculture facilities and public aquariums.
A new patent developed by the ECOAQUA University Institute of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) endorses an innovative system for collecting the eggs of aquatic animals, both vertebrates and invertebrates, applicable in large public aquariums and with high potential for use in aquaculture facilities.
The invention, signed by Dr Andrea Martino and professors from the ECOAQUA Institute at the ULPGC, Daniel Montero, member of the Aquaculture Research Group (GIA), and Francisco Otero -Ferrer, from the Biodiversity and Conservation Group (BIOCON), published at the end of November under reference ES 3032361 A1, describes a device capable of concentrating eggs produced in large-volume culture tanks or aquariums, which operates using the Venturi physical principle as a stable and continuous suction source.
According to Dr Andrea Martino, ‘one of the main challenges in the controlled production of marine species is collecting the eggs released into the water without damaging them, causing stress or altering the dynamics of the tanks. This system allows this to be done continuously and with minimal impact on the organisms’.
The device is integrated directly into the tanks and directs the eggs to a concentration chamber where they are retained without the need for manual intervention.
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Image of the collector at the Acquario di Genova (Italy) facilities, where the experimental tests were successfully carried out.
Martino explains that ‘the system stands out for its versatility, as it can operate using the water flow from the circuit that houses it or, if the installation requires it, using a specific pump that guarantees a constant flow. By operating without air in the duct, much more stable and precise suction is achieved, significantly improving collection capacity and quality compared to traditional tools.’
The researcher points out that the technology has been validated under real operating conditions. Experimental tests were carried out at the Acquario di Genova (Italy), where the system showed high capture efficiency even in large-volume tanks.
‘It could even be tested for implementation in both production farms and research centres, adjusting to the different operational and biological requirements of each facility,’ says Martino.
Technological innovation with scientific and industrial impact
For Dr Andrea Martino, the patent represents a significant advance in the management of reproduction in controlled environments.
“Having high-quality eggs that are concentrated and easy to handle opens up possibilities for both industry and science. It improves production planning, reduces embryonic losses and facilitates the design of highly accurate reproductive experiments. We must not forget that only 10% of the fish species sold for aquariums come from farming, with the rest coming from the wild,” he says.
Detailed image of the collector at the Acquario di Genova (Italy) facilities, where the experimental tests were successfully carried out.
The researcher also highlights the value that this technology brings to animal welfare. ‘We reduce direct handling, decrease the risk of injury and avoid subjecting breeders to intrusive processes. All of this translates into better survival rates and a more stable environment for the species being farmed.’
Applications for aquaculture, conservation and outreach
The team highlights that the system is particularly useful for species of commercial or ornamental interest, as well as for conservation programmes in public aquariums.
‘In aquariums, reliable reproduction of species is essential to avoid extraction from the natural environment and to support breeding programmes under controlled conditions. This technology simplifies this work and increases the efficiency of breeding programmes,’ says Martino.
Aerial view of the collector at the Acquario di Genova (Italy) facilities, where the experimental tests were successfully carried out.
The modular design facilitates its incorporation into existing systems without the need for structural modifications. ‘One of the objectives was that it could be installed in virtually any hydraulic configuration, from small laboratory tanks to large facilities,’ adds the researcher.
Knowledge transfer and next steps
With the publication of patent ES 3032361 A1, the ULPGC reinforces its commitment to technology transfer and applied innovation. Dr Andrea Martino reveals that possible collaborations with companies in the sector and research centres interested in implementing the system are already being evaluated.
‘Our goal is for this tool to reach the industry and contribute to improving the sustainability of aquaculture and public aquariums. It is a simple, robust technology based on years of operational experience,’ he concludes.