CRAB

This initiative finished in Summer 2007.

For more information on the initiative:

Visit www.crabproject.com

The objectives

The objective of this 3-year project is to develop effective biofouling management strategies for the aquaculture industry. The project will review current fouling control techniques and then select and optimise suitable strategies to combat biofouling in aquaculture.

The following antifouling methods and strategies are covered:

• Biological control (using natural grazers such as sea-urchins to control biofouling)
• New materials such as non-toxic antifouling coatings
• Electrical methods generating biocides (Cl-) or pH shifts
• New shellfish handling and immersion techniques
• Optimised cleaning techniques, for example using enzyme technology to weaken the bond between biofouling and stock organisms
• Developing an improved knowledge base of biofouling that will allow avoidance measures to be taken

Expected Outcomes

Key deliverables include best practice guidelines; training courses and materials for industry workers on biofouling and suitable control techniques; and sustainable antifouling strategy management and decision support tools. Training aquaculture managers and workers to make optimal use of the findings of the program are given high priority. Effective dissemination strategies ensure the outcomes of the project are directly applicable by the European Aquaculture Industry.

A key ambition is to increase the knowledge base of the European aquaculture community. By informing farmers about the importance and extent of biofouling at a local regional level combined with effective training of management tools will give farmers the skills and know-how to make informed appropriate choices for their farming situation.

Effective control of the biofouling problem is expected to reduce annual production costs throughout the industry by 5-10% and secure the quality of product.

Consortium Members