Client: UK based Research Facility

Aquatect was commissioned by a UK based research facility to design and install a 9000L capacity tidal aquarium for researchers studying fiddler crab behaviour. The brief was to enable observation of the crabs during low tide, so a tidal system was designed.

The Aquarium was built in 4 sections and sealed together on site. A powder coated steel frame with levelling feet was fabricated to take the weight of this huge tank and allow the shifting weight of the changing tides.

The tides are controlled via standing drains with solenoid valves which open and close at the appropriate time of day. The build comprises a custom moulded fibreglass commercial aquarium which was bonded together on site in 4 sections, a sturdy steel frame, customised over sized plastic welded sumps, solenoid valve controlled drains to manage tide levels, Abyzz pumps, GHL industrial line controller, ITC Aquatics algae reactor, Teco Chiller, and a TMC Titan UV Steriliser.

The aquarium was installed on a second floor basement level adding an interesting challenge for our team.

The entire aquarium is controlled via a GHL Profilux aquarium controller. This monitors water level, temperature, pH, conductivity and ORP. Leak detectors and low level float sensors are installed to give additional safety. Pumps and valves are switched on and off throughout the day, all controlled via an app based interface.

The Fiddler crabs have built extensive burrow systems into the mud flats, coming out at low tide to forage, just like they do in the wild.

If your facility is looking for a bespoke solution for your research projects then get in touch.