Economic evaluation of a stratified transport method for Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) juveniles

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate a convenient, low-cost modification to conventional transfer methods for Atlantic halibut juveniles. A series of wire mesh cages were stacked within transport tanks creating a stratified transport system (STS), increasing the surface area for settlement and facilitating a more homogeneous distribution of halibut throughout the tank compared with the conventional insulated box (Unstructured, UTS). A stochastic cost-benefit analysis determined investment into a STS to be cost-effective, generating a mean benefit-cost ratio of 1.31 (95% CI, 0.68–2.00) after 2 years and a mean 5-year net present value of 85,176(9546,906–$125,630). The implementation of a STS was found to be technically feasible and economically efficient method to improve Atlantic halibut transport.