February 10, 2023

 

China's first large yellow croaker 'smart' aquaculture ship earns ASC certification

 

 

China-based fish-farming ship Conson No. 1 has become the first large yellow croaker (Larimichthys croceus) farm to achieve the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification last December.

 

The ship is the world's first full-scale 'smart' farming ship which can produce 3,700 tonnes of large yellow croaker annually. Local high-end retail company Ole has begun discussions to promote and source ASC certified large yellow croaker for consumers in China.

 

ASC's large yellow croaker certification is based on the ASC Tropical Marine Finfish Standard. The standard has more than 150 assessment indicators, including protection of ecosystems and biodiversity, strict control of antibiotic use, reduction of pesticide and chemical use, implementation of efficient resource and energy management systems, promotion of responsible feed sourcing, and a strong focus on community and social responsibility.

 

Around 180,000 tonnes of large yellow croaker are consumed annually. Considering the fish's significance in the local Chinese market, Conson No. 1 prioritised farming large yellow croaker over other species.

 

Aquaculture Made Possible in a 'Smart Ship'' Conson No.1 Aquaculture Ship is owned by Qingdao Conson Blue Silicon Valley Development Co., LTD, a pioneer of closed-ship aquaculture. Conson No. 1 combines ample space with an advanced digital management system that controls the environment of the growing conditions.

 

The aquaculture ship cruises in waters up to 100 nautical miles offshore, carefully considering the seawater temperature along the route to match the growth of the large yellow croaker. Water is circulated in the growing to simulate ocean currents and forms a rotating flow to mimic the natural environment. 

 

Additionally, as large yellow croaker have a relatively strong stress response to noise, the ship has advanced noise reduction technology to optimise growth. Onboard technology also enhances oxygenation inside the tanks, automatically provides intelligent- lighting and monitors and manages water cleaning and waste removal.

 

Auditors examined and verified the compliance of the entire process of fish farming on the ship against the ASC Tropical Marine Finfish Standard – from the fulfilment of legal requirements and regulations to the environmental and social performance and the aspects related to fish health and biosecurity.

 

Auditors have also reviewed Conson No.1's compliance with regulations and permits concerning water quality impacts in accordance with the legal requirements.

"The certification of the first smart aquaculture ship reflects the substantial efforts made by Qingdao Conson Blue Silicon Valley Development Co., towards a more sustainable farming of large yellow croaker," said Chris Ninnes, chief executive officer of ASC. "We would like to congratulate all those involved with the management and operation of the Conson No. 1 for their commitment towards responsible aquaculture and for its dedication and efforts towards innovative fish farming and technology."

 

Conson No. 1 officially started operating in May 2022, and soon after, started the improvement of its aquaculture system to meet ASC standards.

 

- ASC