Date: 27/05/2014

Jenoptik' laser technology to combat sea parasites

Jenoptik’s Lasers & Material Processing division is supplying the Norwegian company Stingray Marine Solutions AS with lasers to combat parasites that attack farmed salmon.

To successfully rid farmed salmon in Norwegian waters from parasites, the company Stingray Marine Solutions AS is using the extremely precise Jenoptik laser JenLas D2.8 with green laser beam. This is installed into a barrel-like casing that is submerged directly into the net pens. While the salmon swim past this device they are scanned by highly complex camera systems. Whenever the outer shape of the so-called sea lice is recognized on the fish’s skin, a short laser impulse is released that destroys the tissue of the parasite without damaging the fish. The reaction in real time is enabled by real time software that has been specifically adapted for this purpose. The system is controlled and monitored online which allows this technology to be used permanently.

The cooperation with the Norwegian company began at the end of 2012. Since then the idea of combating sea lice with laser has developed into a system which has received several awards for its design and process. One main reason for this is that the use of Stingray units has a positive effect on the environment and the health of the consumers. Previously the around 8 to 12 millimeter large parasites that cling to the skin of fish and weaken the salmon could only be destroyed using chemicals. In the long run this leads to severe damage to the oceans near the fish farms.

Through the cooperation with the Norwegians, Jenoptik is developing a new field of application for its proven laser technology. The JenLas D2 technology has been a core competence of Jenoptik for as long as 14 years. As a beam source, the laser is used especially in the field of medicine. Here, mainly in ophthalmology, laser endoscopy and dermatology. In addition to those medical applications, the laser is also being used successfully in the field of entertainment for laser shows and projections.

Source: Jenoptik
Author: Srinivasa Reddy N