Advanced Research Aquarium Systems
Cambridge University

Todd Fish Tech was proud to be awarded the contract by Cambridge University to design, manufacture, and commission a cutting-edge research aquarium system tailored specifically for advanced marine biology research.

The project involved the creation of four precision-engineered aquarium cabinets used to support the study of amphioxus—a key model organism in evolutionary biology. These compact yet highly sophisticated systems were built to deliver exceptional reliability, environmental control, and remote access, empowering researchers with the tools they need for complex long-term studies.

Each aquarium cabinet features:

• Individually controllable LED lighting systems to simulate natural light cycles

• Precision temperature regulation for optimal experimental conditions

• Automated flushing cycles to maintain clean, stable environments

• Fully computer-controlled systems with remote monitoring and control capabilities — allowing the research team to access and adjust system parameters from anywhere in the world

This highly customised solution reflects our commitment to delivering world-class research aquaria that meet the exacting standards of leading academic institutions.

We wish the Cambridge research team continued success in their important work — or as we like to say at Todd Fish Tech, we send them our Best Fishes!

 

Innovative Research Aquaria Design
St Abbs Marine Station

We are proud to be the designers and engineers behind the state-of-the-art research aquaria at St Abbs Marine Station, located on the scenic southeast coast of Scotland. This facility stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through innovative aquaculture engineering, scientific collaboration, and intelligent design.

The main research aquaria hall features a custom-built seawater intake and flow-through system, designed to take full advantage of the pristine North Sea waters just metres away. Thanks to the harbour’s strategic location, the system ensures a consistent supply of high-quality raw seawater, optimised for marine research and biological studies.

Custom Fabrication of Research Tanks

All of the research tanks were custom fabricated using Todd Fish Tech’s proprietary moulds and specialist designs.

To support precise experimental conditions, each tank is fitted with integrated chilling panels that allow fingertip control of water temperature — a critical factor for researchers studying sensitive marine species and ecosystems.

The Groundbreaking Mesocosm Tank

The tank sizes range from compact 2-foot square units to a 100,000-litre mesocosm tank — the first of its kind in the UK.

This advanced mesocosm allows scientists to simulate a wide range of real-world marine environments and manipulate variables such as noise, water chemistry, and temperature changes, making it possible to study the effects of climate change, human activity, and other environmental pressures at a scale rarely achievable in laboratory settings.

Impact on Marine Research and Conservation

We were fortunate to be involved from the very early stages of this ambitious project, contributing to the design, project management, fabrication, and commissioning of the aquaria systems.

Today, the St Abbs Marine Station works in partnership with leading academic institutions including Heriot-Watt University and Edinburgh Napier University, enabling groundbreaking marine research and conservation efforts.

 

Refit of the Historic Dove Marine Laboratory
Newcastle University

At Todd Fish Tech, we take great pride in our track record of excellence in designing, upgrading, and refurbishing marine research facilities across the UK. As part of our legacy under our former company, Aqua Logistix Ltd, we were honoured to be selected for the refurbishment of the iconic Dove Marine Laboratory in Cullercoats, operated by Newcastle University. This important project was commissioned as part of the laboratory’s 100-year anniversary celebrations, commemorating a century of marine science and research excellence.

Our expert team carried out a full refit of the laboratory’s research aquaria, preserving the character of this historic Victorian building while upgrading it to meet modern scientific standards. The scope of work included:

• Repair and reinforcement of existing research tanks

• Application of high-performance fibreglass linings for long-term durability and waterproofing

• Installation of custom acrylic viewing panels in the large public display tanks, enhancing visibility and user experience

Thanks to our attention to detail and commitment to quality, the final result was met with high praise from the team at Newcastle University, who recognised our professionalism and craftsmanship throughout the project.