CFR - How HDPE nettings are saving losses of aquaculture farmers?

Marine predators create serious challenges for aquaculture farmers. They often attack fish farms because they see the enclosures as an easy source of food. When marine predators break into these enclosures, they can prey on or injure? fish, causing a direct loss for the farmer. The damage doesn’t stop there—these attacks can cause holes in nets, allowing the remaining fish to escape into the open sea which is a major environmental concern.

Constant predator attacks can discourage farmers, especially small-scale operators, who may not have the resources to keep repairing damage or replacing lost fish. Over time, the ongoing struggle can make it difficult for fish farms to stay profitable. Innovative netting solutions offer a promising way to help fish farmers protect their stocks from marine predators. Traditional nets are often vulnerable to attacks by predators. Advanced netting materials, designed to withstand these threats, provide a much-needed layer of defence.

At Garware Technical Fibres Ltd, we are committed to providing cutting-edge netting solutions that offer superior strength and durability. For instance, our Sapphire CFR nets are braided nets made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) combined with copolymers. Sapphire CFR is a composite solution that provides higher strength, cut resistance and mesh stiffness, for the same twine diameters, thereby, giving superior protection against predators such as tuna fish, dogfish, seals and sea lions.

Key Features:

●?????? Extra stiffness: The nets have enhanced rigidity. It deters predators from breaching the enclosure.

●?????? Higher cut resistance: Superior resistance to cuts ensures durability and long-term use in demanding conditions.

●?????? Improved water flow: The design minimises drag - this ensures better water circulation within the system.

The features of Sapphire CFR nets provide operational and financial advantages for fish farmers. In countries such as Norway and Scotland these nets have proven to be game-changers in the aquaculture industry. For instance, in Norway, dogfish present significant challenges to aquaculture operations. Dogfish are a small yet aggressive species of shark and are drawn to fish farms as the dense population of fish in enclosures offers an easy and abundant food source.

Key Issues Caused by Dogfish

Dogfish are a persistent challenge for fish farms. They cause issues that affect operations, productivity, and profitability.

●?????? One major problem is the damage they cause to nets. In their efforts to reach the fish inside, dogfish weaken the enclosures, thereby creating openings that allow farmed fish to escape. These breaches also make it easier for other predators to access the area.

●?????? Another significant issue is direct predation. When dogfish manage to enter the enclosures, they feed on the farmed fish, leading to immediate stock losses. These losses can severely impact a farm's profitability.

●?????? The mere presence of dogfish also creates a stressful environment for farmed fish. Stress can slow their growth, reduce reproduction rates, and increase their vulnerability to diseases. This decline in fish health directly affects the farm's overall productivity and profitability.

Sapphire CFR Nets - A Sustainable Solution

Our Sapphire CFR nets are not only durable but also an excellent choice for sustainability in aquaculture. Unlike traditional nets, these are designed to be environmentally friendly throughout their lifecycle. At the end of their lifespan, Sapphire CFR nets can be recycled, significantly reducing the volume of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Furthermore, their durability ensures a longer operational life, thereby reducing the need for frequent replacements. This not only saves resources but also lowers the demand for raw materials needed to produce new nets. By integrating such sustainable practices, the use of Sapphire CFR nets aligns with global efforts to promote responsible aquaculture.

At Garware Technical Fibres, we are committed to promoting sustainability in aquaculture. Our innovative solutions are designed to balance the demands of efficient fish farming with the need to protect and preserve the marine environment. Established in 1976, Garware Technical Fibres has emerged as a leader in technical textiles. We deliver advanced solutions to industries such as fisheries, aquaculture, shipping, sports, agriculture, coated fabrics, and geosynthetics.? To know more about us, visit here.