Transfer of lighting technology for stress reduction from agriculture to land-based aquaculture.
In collaboration with world-leading expertise in lighting for agriculture and greenhouses, Laksesystemer has introduced an innovative lighting solution specifically designed for land-based fish farming. AgriLED 3 Aqua is grounded in principles derived from fish biology and uses technology known from other food production industries. Recent research indicates that this lighting solution contributes to reduced stress in fish and enhances their growth.
- Better growth
- Easier tank management
- Reduced fish stress
- Improved tank lighting
- Light penetrates deeply into the water
New: AgriLED 3 Aqua – Stress-reducing technology
Through a special construction of the reflector, an asymmetric spread of light is achieved from the lamp, ensuring even distribution in the water. Better light distribution quickly results in more uniform fish distribution in the tank, leading to less hierarchy and aggression. This helps reduce stress levels, positively affecting growth and feed utilization, while potentially preventing size disparities within the fish group. Similar lighting technology used with chickens has shown reduced cortisol levels, with chickens retaining their plumage, a clear indication of improved animal welfare.
Asymmetric light dispersion from the fixture (see the back wall in the picture) ensures even lighting where the animals are, enhancing comfort for both animals and caretaker.
Tailored to fish photoreceptors
Maximized biological effect with minimal energy consumption
AgriLED 3 Aqua is carefully designed to optimize Fish Active Radiation (FAR). This ensures a significant proportion of the energy emitted by the lamp has direct biological relevance for the fish, boosting energy efficiency. The lamp’s spectral composition contains wavelengths specifically tailored for fish visual capacity, including pellet recognition. It also incorporates wavelengths targeting the fish’s extraretinal photoreceptors, helping to minimize physiological and behavioral stress.
Wavelengths are chosen based on recent research and have a profound effect on melatonin secretion, ensuring control over smoltification and early maturation. Specific wavelengths have also been shown to stimulate the gene expression of mch1, a hormone crucial in regulating appetite and stress. Studies have also indicated an increase in GH (growth hormone) and IGF1 (insulin-like growth factor) hormones, resulting in enhanced growth (Zou et al, 2022).
Experiences at Benchmark Genetics Salten AS
Mathias Dahlberg, technical manager at Benchmark Genetics Salten AS, prioritizes biology and fish welfare when choosing lighting for their precious fish.
«For us, it’s crucial that the lights are reliable, and that we don’t encounter any unintended light changes. Fish do not appreciate rapid changes, and if the light suddenly alters, the fish will react and become stressed. It’s all about welfare, so we need a reliable light source and a gradual, flicker-free dimming. We haven’t tested the new lights from Laksesystemer for long, but so far, everything looks very promising. All the fish are exposed to light, and we can see it penetrates deep into the water. The fish behavior is calm, which is paramount for us. The installation is neat and tidy, so everything looks good so far.»
Mathias Dahlberg, Technical Manager, Benchmark Genetics Salten.