Information screen for DAFF Hamburg marine
finfish facility
pH, Salinity etc.) and limits can be set on each of
these. When a limit is exceeded, an indicator (lights
showing on a computer screen, SMS etc.) then triggers a reaction from a staff member. A prescribed action is taken to resolve the problem and return the
system to normal.
We can add an automated control aspect to the above
monitoring system. Once a measurement limit is exceeded an automated action commences. For example
a pH dosing unit is activated as the pH in a recirculation system drops below the set point. Dosing continues until the correct pH level is reached.
Monitoring systems are used for guidance in production systems. Loggers are used to collect the data
measured by probes. This information can be viewed
in real-time if the system is connected live to the Inter-
Electrical panel at marine finfish
hatchery
Monitoring and control unit with automated
pneumatic valve
net – a bunch of apps are also available to enable
viewing on smartphones or tablets. Alternatively data
is downloaded periodically from the monitoring system and can then be imported into a spreadsheet
software package for interrogation. This is obviously
very useful for assessing what conditions are affecting
productivity on the farm or for research purposes.
As with any piece of equipment, maintenance is vital
with servicing being required on a regular basis. Poor
equipment and maintenance gives misinformation –
more dangerous than no information.
In Southern Africa, a wide variety of aquaculture species are farmed; each species having its own specific
critical parameter limits. Monitoring systems providing
OxyGuard C02 monitoring
Pump control unit linked to
monitoring system