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Nanobubbles in Canadian Aquaculture

Canada’s aquaculture sector-particularly salmon farming in British Columbia and Atlantic Canada-faces continuous pressure to improve fish health, reduce mortality, and minimize environmental impact. Water quality lies at the centre of these challenges. Low dissolved oxygen, biofouling, and fluctuating temperature conditions can stress fish and decrease productivity.

Nanobubble technology is providing a breakthrough for Canadian fish farms by delivering ultra-stable oxygenation that enhances fish health and supports more resilient operations.

The Challenge: Ensuring Stable Oxygen Levels

A coastal salmon farm in British Columbia struggled with oxygen fluctuations during warm months and peak biomass cycles. Traditional aeration systems delivered short-term results but required high energy and constant monitoring.

Fluctuating oxygen led to:

  • Slower fish growth
  • Higher stress levels
  • Increased susceptibility to disease
  • Rising energy and chemical costs

The farm needed a sustainable, low-maintenance solution.

The Nanobubble Advantage

After installing a NICO nanobubble generator on the farm’s recirculating water loop, the team saw immediate gains:

  • Higher and More Stable DO Levels: Nanobubbles dispersed oxygen uniformly, preventing the spikes and dips previously seen.
  • Improved Fish Health and Growth: With abundant, consistent oxygen, salmon showed:
    • Better feeding behavior
    • Higher growth rates
    • Lower mortality
  • Reduced Biofilm and Pathogen Pressure Nanobubbles oxidized organic buildup and improved water clarity-key to controlling bacteria in pens and tanks.

Supporting Canada’s Blue Economy

As Canada expands sustainable aquaculture practices, nanobubbles offer:

  • Enhanced oxygen transfer
  • Reduced antibiotics and chemicals
  • Resilience against climate-driven warming
  • Greater operational efficiency

For salmon farmers, this means healthier stock, predictable performance, and increased yield-all with a smaller environmental footprint.