A GLOBAL metals and manufacturing specialist has launched three new copper alloy wires that it says will solve some of the major problems of offshore fish farming.

Luvata said the alloys, used in mesh cages, significantly reduce the cleaning and maintenance costs associated with fish farming.

The meshes have also demonstrated superior exclusion of predators, prevention of escapes and increased freshwater flow, improving the health and the environment for the fish, the firm said.

The product, Seawire, has been developed as global attention focuses on the overfishing of many species and fishing grounds, and as fish stocks struggle to cope with rising human consumption.

Providing a more natural, offshore environment for fish farms has traditionally been hampered by the huge cost and logistics of regularly moving, cleaning and fixing nets and cages.

Seawire has been formulated to adapt to its environment by naturally creating a protective surface oxide that is safe for fish and effective against biofouling. It is resistant to organisms, including barnacles, algae and many others, that often disrupt the flow of water and offer a breeding ground for diseases and infections in the aquaculture.

By keeping the cages and mesh free of these obstructions, Seawire will promote better fish health and cut farming costs significantly, Luvata said.

The company has had initial discussions with aquaculture firms worldwide and anticipates strong growth in the sector as more countries look to adopt aquaculture to control overfishing of natural fish stocks.

Carl Michalewski, director of sales and marketing for Luvata Appleton, said: “Global fish consumption is exploding with worldwide population growth. Around 70 per cent of the world’s fish species are quickly becoming depleted, so the need for a more sustainable approach to fish farming has never been greater.

“Adopted on a global scale, our Seawire product has the potential to make a significant impact on the effects of overfishing by offering a solution that supports sustainable, humane fish-farming practices.”

Luvata is currently working with aquaculture technology specialists from all sectors of the industry with trials underway across species and global geographic areas.

Mr Michalewski said: “The potential market for Seawire is huge, with applications ranging from lobster and crab traps to cages for all imaginable types of aquaculture, including some species that were previously unsuitable for farming.

“Aquaculture is the fastest growing food production sector and the potential for a more sustainable, cost-effective solution like Seawire is enormous. We’re extremely excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”