Duke University Aquatic Research Lab

Integrated Aqua designed, built, supplied and commissioned this state-of-the-art custom saltwater aquatic research laboratory facility. The advanced facility is intended for research into the mechanics of movement and acoustic studies of the mantis shrimp. The extremely high value of these research animals requires a robust aquatic research system that maintains exceptional water quality for the research animals and also includes safety systems to prevent any disruption in system operation.

The research facility is comprised of two independent recirculating systems with 82 total rack-mounted aquaria. Every component in the lab is rugged and designed to mitigate the corrosive effects of saltwater. Critical water quality parameters in both systems are monitored, data-logged, controlled and alarmed by a centralized monitoring and control system with user friendly touch screen that is remotely accessible via internet. Alarm notifications are issued via email and SMS text to managing personnel and critical safety systems are in place to prevent any loss of life scenarios. Precision temperature control (+/- 1 degF) is provided by facility supplied chilled and hot water lines through water-to-water heat exchangers for maximum reliability and performance. The system was highly engineered to meet the strict facility and user guidelines set forth by Duke University.

The key innovation for the systems is the precision automated salinity control system that is capable of maintaining desired salinity in the tanks within 1 ppt of the setpoint. The proprietary salinity control system handles water exchanges automatically which minimizes the maintenance labor required to manage the system.

Duke University

Durham, NC, USA

Aquatic Research