The South African abalone industry faced significant challenges in recent years due to the devastating impact of harmful algal blooms (HABs). For Abagold, an abalone farm in Hermanus, the outbreaks in 2017 and 2019 were wake-up calls that spurred an investment in cutting-edge monitoring technology. By adopting real-time water quality monitoring, Abagold not only safeguarded its stock but also optimized its operational efficiency.
The Challenge: Facing the Red Tide
In 2017, a red tide swept through Walker Bay, killing 30% of Abagold’s abalone stock. These slow-growing marine animals require years to mature, and the loss severely impacted operations. As Abagold began to recover, another harmful bloom struck in 2019, underscoring the urgent need for a more robust approach to water quality management.
Abagold’s flow-through system pumps seawater directly from Walker Bay into its tanks, mimicking the abalone’s natural habitat. However, treating the vast volume of water was impractical, making real-time monitoring essential. In 2019, the reliance on manual water sampling delayed critical decisions. Staff rushed between the intake points and the lab, laboriously filtering and counting phytoplankton—a time-intensive process that hindered swift responses to changing water conditions.
The Solution: Real-Time Monitoring with SME Monitoring and In-Situ Equipment
Recognizing the need for a proactive solution, Abagold partnered with SME Monitoring and introduced advanced monitoring technology. In 2022, they installed an Aqua TROLL 500 sonde at their intake point. This state-of-the-art device continuously measures temperature, chlorophyll-a, and blue-green algae, sending live data to Abagold’s management system every five minutes via telemetry.
The real-time data feed revolutionized Abagold’s response to water quality risks. Staff can now monitor conditions remotely and receive alerts when parameters exceed safe thresholds, enabling rapid action—such as closing the intake point to protect the abalone.
The Impact of Real-Time Data
The benefits of the Aqua TROLL 500 have been profound:
- Reduced Mortality: In 2019, thanks to improved monitoring and operational adjustments, Abagold experienced nearly zero mortalities despite the HAB.
- Efficiency Gains: Real-time alerts eliminated the need for manual sample collection and analysis, saving hours of labor during critical periods.
- Round-the-Clock Monitoring: Live data ensures 24/7 oversight, with alerts accessible even in the early hours, significantly reducing risk during off-hours.
- Supplementary Insights: While satellite imaging provides additional context, its reliability is weather-dependent. The Aqua TROLL’s continuous feed fills the gaps, offering consistent and actionable data.
Collaboration and Innovation
Abagold’s investment in cutting-edge technology extends beyond its operations. The farm collaborates with the University of Bedfordshire, sharing data to support machine learning research in aquaculture. The Aqua TROLL 500’s compatibility with diverse telemetry systems enables seamless integration with third-party platforms, facilitating collaboration and innovation in aquaculture practices.
Results: A Future-Proof Operation
Abagold’s transition to real-time monitoring has transformed its approach to aquaculture. Recent unseasonal blooms, once a major threat, were managed effortlessly thanks to live data. Staff no longer need to scramble during high-risk periods, allowing the team to focus on strategic operations.
As harmful algal blooms grow in frequency and intensity, Abagold is prepared. The farm’s investment in SME Monitoring’s solutions highlights the critical role of technology in sustainable aquaculture. Live data not only protects the abalone but also ensures a more resilient and efficient operation.
Learn More About Coastal Monitoring
For more information about real-time monitoring solutions for aquaculture, contact SME Monitoring today. Protect your operations and secure a sustainable future with cutting-edge technology.
Real-time monitoring is highly valuable for our users, but it must be paired with proper maintenance of water quality measuring equipment. The ultimate goal is to ensure real-time data is not just available but also accurate.