GloFouling Webinars

Biofouling presents an operational challenge for finfish aquaculture globally, as it adds weight and drag on farm structures and can lead to reduced water flow with associated effects to fish health. Copper-based antifouling coatings are often used to manage fouling on production nets; however, the use of copper can have negative environmental impacts. In New Zealand, the salmon aquaculture industry has moved away from the use of antifouled nets. While there are environmental advantages to not using biocides, untreated nets require regular cleaning to prevent occlusion and associated reduced water flow. Cleaning is generally carried out in situ using specialised high-pressure equipment. As net cleaning is generally undertaken without waste recapture, all biofouling present is released into the pen environment. The exposure of farmed fish to this material is believed to be linked to the development of skin health issues, with fish more vulnerable to pathogens, thermal stress and other factors that can increase mortality.