To address concerns regarding food security, aquaculture is venturing into exposed and/or distant ocean areas, necessitating innovative solutions to thrive in high-energy environments. Mytilus edulis and Perna canaliculus remain the primary targets for commercial exposed bivalve aquaculture. The aquaculture industries and researchers are actively developing structures and methodologies for such conditions however there is still some work to do . For seaweed cultivation, such as Saccharina latissima , Laminaria digitata , Lessonia variegata , longline setups are commonly used, but refinement is needed to withstand harsh environments and improve productivity. Innovative systems like offshore ring systems and whale-safe composite farms showcase resilience in exposed conditions, despite the operational challenges posed by high-energy environments. In finfish aquaculture, such as Salmo salar and Rachycentron canadum, three primary design categories for open ocean net pens are identified: flexible gravity pens, rigid megastructures, and submersible pens. Each category offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, impacting their suitability for different situations.
As aquaculture ventures into more demanding environments, a concerted focus on operational efficiency is imperative to reduce effort while increasing productivity . Continued research and innovation will be critical for the successful expansion of aquaculture in exposed ocean conditions, thereby fostering sustainable food production and positive environmental outcomes.
This paper considers the commercial and research progress in aquaculture expansion in exposed seas, with a particular focus on the farming of macroalgae, bivalves, and finfish cultivation.