Photo: Nanfan Plus
Zhuhai is set to take a significant step in modern offshore aquaculture with the completion of the world’s first self-exchanging water farming vessel, Jiuzhou No. 1, by the end of May 2024. Developed by Zhuhai Marine Development Group, this pioneering structure introduces a new model of deep-sea fish farming that requires no external energy to maintain water quality, offering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods.
Unlike conventional fish farms, Jiuzhou No. 1 is designed with a column-stabilized steel frame and uses specialized enclosures to allow natural seawater exchange. This ensures a habitat that closely resembles wild conditions, enhancing fish quality while minimizing environmental impact. The vessel also features an intelligent robotic cleaning system to maintain a healthy farming environment and is equipped with remote monitoring and automated feeding capabilities, allowing operators to track conditions and manage feeding from land-based control centers. Leveraging AI and big data, the system optimizes feeding efficiency and improves economic returns.
The launch of Jiuzhou No. 1 reinforces Zhuhai’s position as a leader in high-tech offshore aquaculture. In recent years, the city has invested heavily in marine farming initiatives, introducing platforms such as Penghu No. 1 and Gesheng No. 1, while advancing breakthroughs in breeding, equipment manufacturing, and industry integration.
Reporter: Zeng Xiangxing
Editor: Hu Nan, James, Shen He