by

 

Waffa Zahralyn

Grade 11, HHM

 

Introduction:

​

Newfoundland and Labrador, a province characterized by its rugged coastlines and pristine freshwater bodies, is being troubled with a significant challenge—a shortage of fish population. This scarcity is disrupting not only the traditional practices of taking fish by local communities but also posing a threat to the region's ecological balance. Various factors, including climate change and excess human activities, have diminished fish population stock. (Pentz B., 2022) This article delves into a possible solution to overcome this nutritional challenge on a provincial and global scale - designing a modern, self-sufficient, eco-friendly, energy-independent indoor fish tank for every household.

 

Indoor Fish Culture in Urban Apartment Settings:

Fish culture in indoor settings presents an innovative and space-efficient approach to sustainable aquaculture. (Ruosi Zhang, 2023) The integration of indoor fish culture into urban apartments aligns with the interest in locally sourced food practices. Individuals can enjoy a fresh supply of fish right from the comfort of their homes. These setups are perfect for an urban lifestyle, offering an accessible means to sustainable aquaculture. It allows for easy regulation of crucial factors such as water quality, temperature, and feeding schedules, ensuring ideal conditions for fish growth without relying on external factors. (Macaulay G., 2021) 

 

Advantages of indoor fish cultures:

Controlled environments to alleviate the impact of overfishing and environmental degradation ensures a sustainable and abundant fish protein supply. (Terry Roberts, 2023) Indoor fish farming allows for precise regulation of water quality, temperature, and nutrition, maximizing conditions for fish growth and minimizing the risk of diseases. (Jabin Goo, 2023) The idea behind these closed systems also enables year-round production, providing a consistent and reliable source of fish protein regardless of external factors, especially the harsh NL winter temperature. However, one problem still needs to be solved with the best fish farming techniques currently being used: the high power required to run these tanks; (M. Badiola, 2018) this is where my new design comes into play: a modernized fish tank without external power consumption.

 

Methods Currently Used in Indoor Fish Culture:

Indoor fish culture encompasses various methods and systems tailored to aquaculturists' needs and preferences. One common approach is recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), which use advanced water filtration and recirculation techniques to maintain ideal water quality. RAS minimizes water usage and waste while maximizing efficiency in the controlled environment of indoor locations. (Helfrich LA, 1991) 

 

Biofloc systems are a sustainable aquaculture method that uses microbial accumulations called bioflocs to manage water quality. These microorganisms help reduce the need for water exchange by consuming organic matter and nitrogen compounds. By creating a dynamic ecosystem, the biofloc system promotes a healthier environment for fish, providing an efficient and cost-effective way to maintain water quality while promoting fish growth in a controlled environment. (Ogello EO, 2021) 

 

Study Objectives:

​

The primary objective is to construct a sustainable, self-energized, and eco-friendly fish tank that seamlessly incorporates a filtration system and a self-running micro-turbine to generate sufficient power to operate an aeration system within the tank. 

In present day fish farming, RAS systems have been used, but this method requires a high amount of energy usage. (M. Badiola, 2018) My innovative design provides self-sufficient indoor fish culture in densely populated urban environments and also in remote locations where access to reliable power sources and fish is limited or nonexistent. No amount of external energy consumption will decrease operational costs and potential negative impacts on the earth by using high energy consumption from traditional fish farming tanks.

My proposal provides a solution to allow widespread adoption of this self-sustaining advanced fish tank across households in Newfoundland and globally, aiming to address the demand for fish protein and promote healthier living worldwide. 

 

A Modern Fish Tank Design for Indoor Fish Culture:

The design for a modern fish tank for indoor fish culture incorporates natural aquatic conditions while providing a controlled environment to maximize the growth and health of the fish. The indoor fish tank includes transparent walls made of glass or acrylic, allowing to observe and monitor the fish easily. The tank size varies based on the requirements of the fish species being cultivated and the available space. 

Furthermore, the fish tank incorporates advanced technologies to maintain water quality. Filtration systems help remove waste and maintain the appropriate levels of ammonia and nitrates. In my design, I chose a round-shaped fish tank because of its unique advantages in water circulation, space utilization, and the overall well-being of the fish. Circular tanks promote efficient water flow, preventing dead spots where waste could accumulate and maintaining water quality by ensuring even distribution of oxygen and nutrients. Additionally, the rounded shape allows for easier cleaning, as no corners or edges may trap debris.

 

Main Components of my new indoor fish tank design:

​

1. Underwater Hydraulic Ram Pumps to Elevate Water for Filtration:

The underwater hydraulic ram pump efficiently transports water to higher elevations without using external energy sources. It utilizes energy gained from the water flow using a submerged chamber, a delivery pipe, and a drive pipe. Water entering the chamber gains momentum, creating pressure. When a certain pressure is reached, a valve closes, causing a surge in the drive pipe and lifting water to a higher elevation. This pump is simple, requires minimal maintenance, and operates without electricity or fuel, making it cost-effective and sustainable without causing any pollution that can negatively affect the earth. (Wikipedia contributors, 2023) 

 

 

 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

                                                                  Figure: Sample image of Hydraulic ramp pump system (google search)

 

   

   2. Filter Systems Integrated With the Hydraulic Ram Pumps:

A sustainable water management solution emerges by integrating the hydraulic ram pumps with advanced filtration systems. After the hydraulic ram pump alleviates the water without using external energy sources, the water flows through an advanced filtration system. This filtration system consists of mechanical filters to capture debris and uneaten food particles, preventing their accumulation and ensuring a clean tank. Additionally, biological filtration can be used by employing beneficial bacteria to break down harmful ammonia and nitrites produced by fish waste, converting them into less toxic nitrates. Together, these filtration mechanisms, alongside the hydraulic ram pump, can promote the overall well-being of the fish by creating a balanced and stable ecosystem without releasing harmful pollutants into the environment. (Bruce L. et. al., 1992)

 

 

 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

           

   Figure: Sample image of filtration system (google search)

​
 

  3. The Aeration System for Different-sized Indoor Fish Culture Tanks:

An appropriate aeration system is needed for different-sized indoor fish culture tanks. A reasonable choice is an air pump with sufficient output capacity to ensure efficient oxygenation throughout the tank. To determine the proper air pump size, consider the depth of the tank and the oxygen requirements of the fish species being cultivated.

In addition to the air pump, incorporating air stones or diffusers is advisable. These accessories help disperse the oxygen evenly and create fine bubbles that enhance the surface area for gas exchange. Regularly monitoring dissolved oxygen levels with a reliable test kit is also recommended to refine the aeration system based on the specific needs of the fish and the tank's conditions. (Roy, S.M. et. al., 2021) 

​

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

          Figure: Sample image of Aeration system (google search)

 

  4. Harvesting Energy: Power Generation from Micro-hydro turbines in Tiny Water Stream Falls to Run the Aeration system:

Harnessing power from a tiny water stream fall using a small turbine is an efficient approach to an autonomous fish tank. It involves placing a micro-turbine under the filtration system, such as a micro-hydro or a cross-flow turbine. Assessing the flow rate and the height of the water stream are also necessary steps to determine the energy potential. 

As the water flows over the turbine blades, it causes them to rotate, converting the kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This rotational motion is then transferred to a generator, where it is transformed into electrical energy. The generated power can be used to operate the aeration systems for the tank. It provides a sustainable energy source, essentially allowing the tank to run power-free. 

 

                

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

        Figure: Sample image of micro-hydro power turbine (google search)

 

Discussions and Potential Improvements:

​

Existing technologies such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and biofloc systems have significantly improved water quality management, offering reduced water usage and efficient nutrient cycling. (Martins, C. et. al., 2010) However, there are still drawbacks, particularly regarding energy consumption and waste management. (Rawlinson, P. et. al., 2000) Improving fish tank systems could enhance energy efficiency by integrating self-energy sources, an idea I implemented in my new design.

In the future, innovation in fish tank systems might also incorporate AI technologies, which could involve the development of automated monitoring and control systems that use artificial intelligence to regulate parameters like water temperature, pH levels, and feeding schedules. Additionally, advancements in material science may lead to more sustainable tank materials that are eco-friendly, durable, and cost-effective. Collaboration between aquaculturists, engineers, and environmental scientists will be crucial to developing fish tank systems that maximize the health and growth of aquatic species, prioritize sustainability, and minimize environmental impact.

 

Conclusion:

​

Imagine a fish tank that goes beyond the conventional, incorporating innovative elements to create a self-sustaining and environmentally conscious aquatic environment. The tank is thoughtfully designed with user-friendly features, including a waste removal system that efficiently removes debris and uneaten food, ensures that the tank remains clean, and ensures that the water quality is consistently ideal for the well-being of the fish.

​

At the core of this visionary fish tank is a hydraulic ram pump system positioned strategically within the tank; this system elevates the water to a higher level, eliminating the need for external energy sources. The hydraulic ram pump operates autonomously, utilizing the kinetic energy of flowing water to create a self-sustaining water cycle within the tank. 

​

There is also an advanced water filtration system complementing the hydraulic ram pump. As the water is elevated, it seamlessly passes through a comprehensive filtration mechanism, effectively removing impurities, fish waste, and other contaminants. This filtration system ensures a pristine environment, supporting optimal fish growth and health conditions. Additionally, the filtration system contributes to sustainability by minimizing the need for frequent water changes and reducing water wastage.

​

To further enhance the self-sufficiency of this modernized fish tank, I designed an integrated microturbine for power generation for the water aeration system. The rotational motion of the microturbine converts mechanical energy into powering the water aeration system, which ensures that the fish receive adequate oxygen. Adding a power-generating microturbine mitigates the need for electricity consumption for fish tanks, which is one of the biggest drawbacks of traditional fish farming systems. 

​

By combining these elements, this visionary fish tank exemplifies the potential for eco-friendly and independent aquaculture systems, paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative approach to indoor fish farming in households across the province.

​
 

References:

 

Pentz B, Klenk N. When is a commercial fish species recovered?. Journal of Environmental Management. 2022 Jan 1;301:113918.

 

Xinlei Guo, Jiazhen Li , Kailin Yang, Hui Fu, Tao Wang, Yongxin Guo, Qingfu Xia and Wei Huang. 

Optimal design and performance analysis of hydraulic ram pump system. Proc IMechE Part A: J Power and Energy. 2018, Vol. 232(7) 841–855

 

Terry Roberts, CBC News (Posted: Sep 06 2023). Seafood farming is in bounce-back mode, and the NL government is all in on aquaculture. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/seafood-farming-expansion-1.6957892

(Retrieved December 14, 2023)

 

Jabin Goo, Younghoon Kwak, Hakjong Shin, Jiwon Kim, Seng-Kyoun Jo, Jung-Ho Huh. Feasibility study of dynamic thermal-modeling development using measurement and validation: Case study of indoor fish farm. Applied Thermal Engineering, Volume 228, 2023. 120512, ISSN 1359-4311.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2023.120512.

 

M. Badiola, O.C. Basurko, R. Piedrahita, P. Hundley, D. Mendiola. Energy use in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS): A review. Aquacultural Engineering, Vol 81, 2018, Pages 57-70, ISSN 0144-8609, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aquaeng.2018.03.003.

 

Ruosi Zhang, Tao Chen, Yang Wang, Michael Short. Systems approaches for sustainable fisheries: A comprehensive review and future perspectives. Sustainable Production and Consumption. Vol 41, 2023, Pages 242-252. ISSN 2352-5509.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spc.2023.08.013. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352550923001999)  (Retrieved on December 14, 2023)

 

Macaulay G, Bui S, Oppedal F, Dempster T. Challenges and benefits of applying fish behaviour to improve production and welfare in industrial aquaculture. Reviews in Aquaculture. 2021 Mar;13(2):934-48.

 

Helfrich LA, Libey GS. Fish farming in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Virginia Cooperative Extension; 1991.

 

Ogello EO, Outa NO, Obiero KO, Kyule DN, Munguti JM. The prospects of biofloc technology (BFT) for sustainable aquaculture development. Scientific African. 2021 Nov 1;14:e01053.

 

Wikipedia contributors. (2023, November 18). Hydraulic ram. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved December 14, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Hydraulic_ram&oldid=1185766531  (Retrieved on December 14, 2023)

 

Bruce L. Tetzlaff and Roy C. Heidinger. SIUC Fisheries Research Laboratory, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL. (1992). https://www.ifishillinois.org/programs/aquaculture/biofiltration_and_design.pdf (Retrieved December 14, 2023) (Retrieved on December 14, 2023)

​

Roy, S.M., P, J., Machavaram, R. et al. Diversified aeration facilities for effective aquaculture systems—a comprehensive review. Aquacult Int 29, 1181–1217 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10499-021-00685-7

 

Martins, C.; Eding, E.; Verdegem, M.; Heinsbroek, L.; Schneider, O.; Blancheton, J.; d'Orbcastel, E.; Verreth, J. (November 2010), "New developments in recirculating aquaculture systems in Europe: A perspective on environmental sustainability" (PDF), Aquacultural Engineering, 43 (3): 83–93, doi:10.1016/j.aquaeng.2010.09.002

 

Rawlinson, P.; Forster, A. (2000). "The Economics of Recirculation Aquaculture" (PDF). Oregon State University. (Retrieved on December 14, 2023)