Fish hatchery raceways

Raceways are long channels used in fish hatcheries to rear fish in continuous flowing water, common in trout and salmon farming.

About this subject

Raceways are essential structures in intensive aquaculture, especially for cold-water species like trout and salmon. These rectangular channels, typically made of concrete or fiberglass, allow a continuous flow of water that removes waste and maintains high dissolved oxygen levels. A typical raceway system can be 20 to 30 meters long, 2 to 4 meters wide, and 1 to 1.5 meters deep. Water flow rate is carefully controlled to ensure environmental quality and proper fish density.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a raceway and an earthen pond?

Raceways are rectangular concrete or fiberglass channels with continuous water flow, while earthen ponds are excavated holes with still or recirculated water. Raceways allow higher fish density and better environmental control.

Which species are most raised in raceways in Brazil?

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is the main species. Other trout and, to a lesser extent, tilapia are also used in cold regions.

What water flow rate is needed for a raceway?

Flow depends on fish density and temperature. Typically, 2 to 5 complete water exchanges per hour are recommended, equivalent to 10 to 30 liters per second for medium-sized raceways.