Micro-computer based design of recirculating systems for the production of soft-shell blue crabs (callinectes sapidus)

Use of recirculating shedding systems in the soft-shell blue crab industry continues to increase as the capabilities of existing in-shore production facilities expand. Water treatment capabilities based on fluidized bed and upflow sand filters are used to support growth of desirable waste-consuming bacteria and to remove solids. A microcomputer program has been written to assist crab fishermen with sizing filters, reducing flow requirements, and selecting pumps. The distribution of the software is expected to accelerate the adoption of filter technology and strengthen the blue crab shedding industry.<>