SUBflex system is a single-point mooring submersible and flexible netcage aquaculture system. The single-point mooring function generates circular movement around a single anchor, dispersing feces to a diameter of 1,000 meters. The construction supporting the net comprises of high-density polyethylene, creating a strong and flexible structure that can continuously move in the current and waves.
The technology enables the system's pipes to haul seawater prior to a predicted storm in a bid to submerge the system to the sea bottom. Once the storm subsides the pipes are refilled with air to re-float the cages.
SUBflex's first half-scale farm was installed in 2004 within East Mediterranean waters, 2 km offshore. The cages and fish (Gilthead seabream) survived storms with 7-8 meter waves at submerged states, and survived waves of 2-3 meters at surface states. Open sea biological conditions proved to be ideal; oxygen levels are high, constant currents provide fish with excellent water exchange and the amount of fouling on the net is minor.
The first full-scale SUBflex system (300-350 ton/year), assembled on Israel's south coast, will be anchored in the Mediterranean, 11 km offshore at 60 meters depth.
