DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of aquaculture technologies utilized in live fish transportation and, more specifically, to a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, a method for preparing a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, and a method for treating fish during last-mile transport.
BACKGROUND
[002] Fish transportation is a fundamental component of the global aquaculture industry, which supplies over 50% of the fish consumed worldwide. The fish transportation process involves multiple critical phases including harvest, intermediate holding, long-distance transport, and final last-mile delivery to markets, retail facilities, or processing centres. Specifically, the last-mile transportation phase presents unique challenges including sudden water quality changes, accumulated metabolic stress from prior transport phases, physical handling trauma during unloading, and narrow therapeutic windows for effective intervention, resulting in substantial mortality rates, economic losses, and compromised fish quality throughout the aquaculture supply chain.
[003] Conventional methods for the last-mile transportation include basic oxygen supplementation through air stones or compressed oxygen systems, generic stress reduction approaches using mild sedatives or salt solutions, simple water quality management through pH buffers or basic filtration, and rudimentary temperature control measures during transfer operations. Certain advancements have been made to improve fish transportation outcomes in the last-mile transportation process, including specialized transport containers with integrated life support systems, automated water quality monitoring devices, and targeted stress-reduction treatments for specific fish species. However, such methods pose significant limitations in addressing the multi-factorial nature of last-mile challenges, as current approaches typically focus on single-function treatments such as isolated oxygen delivery, non-specific sedation protocols, or standalone ammonia control measures without addressing the complex interplay of physiological stressors that occur simultaneously during the critical transition period. As a result, there is a need of how to simultaneously address oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, ammonia toxicity, and electrolyte imbalance within the critical time window to reduce the complex physiological stressors encountered during last-mile fish transportation.
[004] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks associated with the conventional live fish transport methods and the systems.
SUMMARY
[005] The present disclosure provides a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, a method for preparing a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, and a method for treating fish during last-mile transport. The present disclosure provides a solution to the technical problem of how to simultaneously address oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, ammonia toxicity, and electrolyte imbalance within the critical time window to reduce the complex physiological stressors encountered during last-mile fish transportation. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in the prior art and provide an improved chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, the method for preparing a chemical formulation and the method for treating fish during last-mile transport.
[006] One or more objectives of the present disclosure is achieved by the solutions provided in the enclosed independent claims. Advantageous implementations of the present disclosure are further defined in the dependent claims.
[007] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport. The chemical formulation includes sodium percarbonate having chemical composition Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 in a concentration range of 10 ppm to 20 ppm as an oxygen stabilizer. Furthermore, the chemical formulation includes a yucca extract powder in a concentration range of 30 ppm to 50 ppm comprising 80% yucca schidigera extracted solids containing sarasaponin as bioactive compound and 20% food-grade silica as carrier, wherein the yucca extract powder serves as a stress alleviation agent that binds cortisol receptors and reduces stress hormones. Moreover, the chemical formulation includes sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate having chemical composition CH3NaO4S in a concentration range of 1 ppm to 5 ppm as an ammonia detoxifier. The chemical formulation provides synergistic effects of simultaneous stress reduction, oxygen stabilization, ammonia detoxification, and electrolyte balance achieved through sodium ions from the sodium percarbonate and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate. The synergistic combination reduces fish mortality from baseline 15-25% to 3-5% when administered within 30 minutes of unloading during the critical last-mile transport phase.
[008] Advantageously, the chemical formulation provides a comprehensive last-mile fish transportation solution that achieves 80-85% mortality reduction compared to baseline conditions through synergistic integration of oxygen stabilization, stress hormone control, and ammonia detoxification within a single formulation. The chemical formulation operates autonomously without dependency on external equipment or continuous power supply, eliminating the complexity and reliability issues associated with mechanical aeration systems while providing sustained therapeutic effects for 3-4 hours through controlled chemical release mechanisms. Furthermore, the chemical formulation delivers immediate intervention capability within the critical 30-minute application window, preventing irreversible physiological damage that occurs during peak stress hormone elevation and enabling fish to rapidly recover normal metabolic function rather than expending energy fighting multiple simultaneous stressors. The natural component integration (i.e., the inclusion of the yucca extract powder) ensures food safety compliance without withdrawal periods while maintaining fish alertness and natural behaviours essential for market appeal, preserving 90-95% of market value compared to 60-70% retention with conventional methods. Moreover, the chemical formulation provides universal applicability across multiple freshwater fish species with consistent performance under variable field conditions, eliminating the need for species-specific treatment protocols while ensuring regulatory compliance through food-grade components. The synergistic effect of the chemical formulation is configured to addresses the interconnected nature of transport-induced physiological dysfunction through coordinated intervention across multiple biological systems, providing therapeutic outcomes that exceed additive effects of individual components and providing an enhanced fish welfare protection.
[009] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for preparing a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport. The method comprising mixing sodium percarbonate, yucca extract powder, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in predetermined concentrations. Furthermore, the method comprising homogenizing the mixture to form a uniform chemical formulation, wherein the chemical formulation is configured to reduce fish stress, stabilize oxygen levels, detoxify ammonia, and balance electrolytes during fish transportation. Moreover, the method comprises validating the formulation stability by confirming that the homogenized mixture maintains component integrity and functional activity for at least 24 hours under ambient storage conditions.
[0010] Advantageously, the method provides standardized preparation protocols that ensure consistent therapeutic efficacy of the chemical formulation across diverse operational environments while eliminating variability associated with manual preparation techniques. The method enables reliable preparation of the synergistic three-component formulation with precise concentration control that guarantees optimal individual and combined therapeutic effects, achieving consistent 80-85% mortality reduction performance regardless of operator experience or field conditions. The systematic approach utilized by the method ensures seamless integration with the system through programmable protocols that can be executed by the preparation and dosing unit under controller supervision, eliminating human error and providing rapid emergency response capability within the critical 30-minute intervention window. The method further maintains component stability and bioavailability through controlled homogenization parameters that preserve therapeutic integrity while achieving uniform distribution essential for predictable dissolution and therapeutic outcomes when applied in aquatic environments. The inclusion of the validation protocols ensure 24-hour formulation stability under ambient conditions, providing operational flexibility for advance preparation and storage without compromising therapeutic effectiveness.
[0011] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for treating fish during last-mile transport. The method comprises determining a dosage of the chemical formulation as claimed in claim 1 based on fish weight and tank volume. Furthermore, the method comprises adding the chemical formulation to fish holding tanks upon unloading fish from transit vehicles, and the method comprises allowing the chemical formulation to revive lethargic fish and stabilize water conditions. The method is configured to enhance the fish survival rates and reduces post-transport mortality.
[0012] The method achieves all the advantages and technical effects of the chemical formulations of the present disclosure.
[0013] It is to be appreciated that all the aforementioned implementation forms can be combined. All steps that are performed by the various entities described in the present application, as well as the functionalities described to be performed by the various entities, are intended to mean that the respective entity is adapted to or configured to perform the respective steps and functionalities. It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0014] Additional aspects, advantages, features, and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative implementations construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for long-distance live fish transport, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for preparing a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG.3 is a flowchart of a method for treating fish during last-mile transport, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 4 is a graphical representation illustrating the effectiveness of different chemical compounds of the chemical formulation at specified concentrations, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 5 is a graphical representation illustrating the dissolved oxygen maintenance shown by the chemical formulation over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 6 is a graphical representation illustrating the stress hormone reduction of fishes over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 7 is a graphical representation illustrating the ammonia neutralization shown by the chemical formulation over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 8 is a graphical representation illustrating the enhance survival rates among different fish species during the live fish transportation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0017] In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0018] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
[0019] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for long-distance live fish transport, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 1, there is shown a system 100 for long-distance live fish transport. The system 100 includes a transport tank 102 having a chemical formulation 104, a monitoring unit 106, and a mixing unit 108. Furthermore, the system 100 includes a preparation and a dosing unit 110, a temperature and environment control unit 112, a testing apparatus 114, and a controller 116.
[0020] The system 100 for long-distance live fish transport is configured to provide a comprehensive solution for maintaining fish health and viability during transportation processes, particularly addressing the critical challenges encountered during last-mile delivery phases. The system 100 represents an integrated approach that combines multiple technological components to create a coordinated treatment and monitoring infrastructure capable of responding to dynamic conditions throughout the fish transportation cycle. The system 100 is configured to operate across various transportation scenarios and fish species, providing scalable and adaptable solutions for commercial aquaculture operations. The integrated nature of the system 100 enables real-time assessment and intervention capabilities, facilitating immediate response to changing conditions that may compromise fish welfare during transport operations.
[0021] The transport tank 102 serves as the primary containment vessel for fish during transportation operations. The transport tank 102 may be constructed from various materials and configured in different sizes and shapes to accommodate diverse transportation requirements and fish species. Examples of the transport tank 102 may include but not limited to insulated polyethylene tanks, stainless steel transport containers, fiberglass holding vessels, or modular tank systems with capacities ranging from 500 litres to 5000 litres or more depending on operational requirements.
[0022] Furthermore, the transport tank includes the chemical formulation 104, which comprises therapeutic compounds specifically configured for emergency treatment during last-mile transport. The chemical formulation 104 include oxygen-releasing compounds such as sodium percarbonate, stress-reduction agents such as yucca extract powder, ammonia neutralizers such as sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate, or combinations thereof in predetermined concentrations. The chemical formulation 104 is configured to provide rapid therapeutic intervention during critical phases of fish transportation, particularly addressing multiple physiological stressors simultaneously within time-constrained operational windows. The chemical formulation 104 may be adapted for various application methods, dosage requirements, and environmental conditions encountered during commercial fish transportation operations. Moreover, the chemical formulation 104 is configured to integrate seamlessly with existing transportation infrastructure and protocols without requiring extensive modifications to standard operational procedures.
[0023] The monitoring unit 106 is configured to provide real-time assessment of water quality and fish health parameters. The monitoring unit 106 may include but not limited to the dissolved oxygen sensors, pH meters, ammonia detection probes, temperature sensors, conductivity meters, or integrated multi-parameter monitoring devices with digital display capabilities. Furthermore, the monitoring unit 106 is configured to configured to continuously track critical parameters that directly impact fish welfare and survival during transportation operations.
[0024] The mixing unit 108 is configured to ensure uniform distribution of the chemical formulation 104 with water throughout the transport tank 102. Examples of the mixing unit 108 may include but not limited to circulation pumps, impeller systems, venturi mixers, air-driven circulation devices, or mechanical agitation systems with variable speed controls. In an implementation, the mixing unit 108 operates through mechanical action to create fluid movement and turbulence within the transport tank 102, facilitating rapid and homogeneous dispersion of the chemical formulation 104. In various embodiments, the mixing unit 108 may comprise centrifugal pumps with adjustable flow rates, positive displacement pumps for precise fluid movement, submersible propeller units with directional thrust capabilities, paddle wheel systems for gentle water agitation, or rotating drum mixers for continuous circulation.
[0025] The preparation and dosing unit 110 facilitates accurate preparation and delivery of the chemical formulation 104. Examples of the preparation and dosing unit 110 may include but not limited to automated dispensing systems, precision dosing pumps, pre-measured chemical cartridges, mixing chambers with graduated measurements, computer-controlled injection systems, and the like. The preparation and dosing unit 110 is configured to operates through precise measurement and mixing mechanisms to combine individual chemical components in predetermined ratios according to established formulation protocols. Furthermore, the preparation and dosing unit 110 facilitates accurate delivery through controlled dispensing mechanisms that calculate and deliver precise quantities based on fish biomass, tank volume, and treatment requirements.
[0026] The temperature and environment control unit 112 is configured to maintain optimal environmental conditions during transport. Examples of the temperature and environment control unit 112 may include but not limited to heating elements, cooling systems, insulation materials, ventilation fans, humidity control devices, integrated climate control systems with programmable settings, and the like. In an implementation, the temperature and environment control unit 112 operates through active heating and cooling mechanisms to regulate water temperature within predetermined ranges suitable for specific fish species. The temperature and environment control unit 112 may utilize electric heating elements, heat exchangers, thermoelectric cooling devices, or refrigeration systems to counteract ambient temperature variations and maintain thermal stability throughout transportation cycles.
[0027] The testing apparatus 114 is configured to enable verification of treatment effectiveness and water quality parameters. Examples of the testing apparatus 114 may include but not limited to portable water testing kits, electronic measurement devices, colorimetric analysis tools, digital testing instruments, or laboratory-grade analytical equipment for field use.
[0028] The controller 116 coordinates the operation of various system components and manages treatment protocols. The controller 116 may refer to one or more individual processors, processing devices, and various elements associated with a processing device that may be shared by other processing devices. Additionally, one or more individual processors, processing devices, and elements are arranged in various architectures for responding to and processing the instructions that drive the system 100. In some implementations, the controller 116 may be an independent unit and may be located outside the system 100. Examples of the controller 116 may include, but are not limited to, a hardware processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) processor, a reduced instruction set (RISC) processor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) processor, a state machine, a data processing unit, a graphics processing unit (GPU), and other processors or control circuitry or a processor forwarding system.
[0029] There is provided the chemical formulation 104 for treating fish during last-mile transport. The last-mile transport represents the most critical phase where fish experience maximum stress due to cumulative effects from long-distance transport, sudden environmental changes, physical handling, and narrow intervention windows. Conventional treatments fail to address the multi-factorial nature of last-mile stressors, resulting in 15-25% mortality rates. The chemical formulation 104 operates through a synergistic three-component system that simultaneously addresses oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, ammonia toxicity, and electrolyte imbalance within the critical 30-minute application window following fish unloading. As a result, the chemical formulation 104 provides a comprehensive solution specifically configured for last-mile applications, achieving 80-85% reduction in fish mortality compared to untreated baseline conditions while operating within practical commercial timeframes.
[0030] The chemical formulation 104 includes sodium percarbonate having chemical composition Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 in a concentration range of 10 ppm to 20 ppm as an oxygen stabilizer. In general, the fish experience severe hypoxic stress during last-mile transport as dissolved oxygen levels drop to critical 3-4 mg/L due to increased metabolic demand, handling stress, and water quality deterioration. Conventional aeration methods provide insufficient and unsustained oxygen supplementation. The chemical formulation 104 of the present disclosure addresses the limitation of the conventional aeration methods by including sodium percarbonate, which decomposes according to the reaction:
2Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 ? 2Na2CO3 + 3H2O + 1.5O2?
The decomposition of the sodium percarbonate is configured to release 1.5 oxygen molecules per formula unit through controlled decomposition that provides sustained oxygen release over 3-4 hours, which delivers immediate oxygen boost from critical 3.4 mg/L to optimal 6-8 mg/L within 15 minutes while maintaining therapeutic levels for extended duration, unlike conventional methods that require continuous external aeration and fail to provide sustained therapeutic levels. In an example, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium percarbonate having chemical composition Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 in a concentration of 10 ppm. In another example, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium percarbonate having chemical composition Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 in a concentration of 20 ppm. In yet another example, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium percarbonate having chemical composition Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 in a concentration of 15 ppm. The specific concentration range of the includes sodium percarbonate ranging from 10 ppm to 20 ppm is essential to provide optimal oxygen release kinetics while preventing oxygen oversaturation above 20 ppm that could cause gas bubble disease and avoiding insufficient oxygenation below 10 ppm that fails to counteract hypoxic conditions effectively.
[0031] In accordance with an embodiment, the sodium percarbonate is present in a concentration of 15 ppm to provide a balanced oxygen release kinetics for dissolved oxygen maintenance at 6-8 mg/L. The 15 ppm concentration of the sodium percarbonate represents an optimal balance between rapid oxygen release and sustained delivery without causing oxygen oversaturation or pH disruption that could create additional stress for transported fish. Furthermore, the 15 ppm concentration of the sodium percarbonate provides controlled decomposition kinetics that releases oxygen at approximately 0.15 mg/L per minute during the first 30 minutes, followed by sustained release maintaining 6-8 mg/L for more than 3 hours post-application. The kinetic parameters are determined through controlled laboratory studies using dissolved oxygen probes with continuous monitoring at 5-minute intervals over 240-minute test periods in simulated transport water conditions. Thus, by virtue of adding the sodium percarbonate into the chemical formulation 104, the chemical formulation 104 is configured to provide the peak dissolved oxygen levels of 7.8 mg/L at 30 minutes with sustained maintenance above 6.5 mg/L for 180 minutes, providing superior oxygen stability compared to higher or lower concentrations. The optimal 15 ppm concentration was validated through comparative testing of concentrations ranging from 5 ppm to 25 ppm, with dissolved oxygen measurements performed using calibrated electrochemical sensors and pH monitoring conducted using digital pH meters to confirm absence of significant pH shifts (±0.2 units) that could stress transported fish.
[0032] Furthermore, the chemical formulation 104 includes yucca extract powder in a concentration range of 30 ppm to 50 ppm comprising 80% Yucca Schidigera extracted solids containing sarasaponin as bioactive compound and 20% food-grade silica as carrier. Fish stress during last-mile transport triggers massive cortisol release (i.e., over 150-200 ng/mL) causing immunosuppression, behavioural changes, and physiological dysfunction. In such cases, the inclusion of natural saponins is configured to provide targeted stress reduction without sedation side effects of synthetic alternatives. The yucca extract powder includes sarasaponin molecules, which are configured to bind with cortisol receptors through steroidal backbone interactions, blocking stress signalling via the hypothalamic-pituitary-interregnal (HPI) axis while food-grade silica ensures uniform dispersion and bioavailability in aqueous environments. In an example, the chemical formulation 104 includes yucca extract powder in a concentration of 30 ppm. In another example, In an example, the chemical formulation 104 includes yucca extract powder in a concentration of 50 ppm. In yet another example, In an example, the chemical formulation 104 includes yucca extract powder in a concentration of 40 ppm. The specific concentration range of 30 ppm to 50 ppm is essential because concentrations below 30 ppm provide insufficient sarasaponin density for effective cortisol receptor binding, while concentrations above 50 ppm may cause digestive disruption or foam formation that could interfere with water quality and fish respiration. Thus, the yucca extract powder provides targeted stress hormone reduction through specific receptor binding mechanism rather than general sedation, maintaining fish alertness and natural behaviours while reducing cortisol levels by 60-70% within 30 minutes.
[0033] In accordance with an embodiment, the yucca extract powder is present in a concentration of 40 ppm, comprising 80% Yucca schidigera extracted solids that is configured to maximize saponin efficacy for cortisol receptor binding and stress hormone reduction by 60-70%. The 40 ppm concentration of the yucca extract powder represents an optimal balance between maximum sarasaponin bioavailability and prevention of digestive disruption or foam formation that could interfere with water quality and fish respiration. Moreover, the yucca extract powder serves as a stress alleviation agent that binds cortisol receptors and reduces stress hormones. Furthermore, the 40 ppm concentration of the yucca extract powder provides optimal sarasaponin density for effective cortisol receptor occupancy, achieving peak stress hormone (i.e., cortisol) reduction within 30 minutes while maintaining therapeutic effects for 2-3 hours post-application. The cortisol reduction parameters are determined through controlled laboratory studies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques with blood sampling at 15-minute intervals over 180-minute test periods under simulated transport stress conditions. Thus, by virtue of adding the yucca extract powder at 40 ppm concentration into the chemical formulation 104, the chemical formulation 104 is configured to provide peak cortisol reduction of 70% at 45 minutes with sustained stress hormone suppression maintaining 60-65% reduction for 120 minutes, providing superior stress alleviation compared to higher or lower concentrations. The optimal 40 ppm concentration was validated through comparative testing of concentrations ranging from 20 ppm to 60 ppm, with cortisol measurements performed using calibrated ELISA protocols and behavioural stress assessments conducted using standardized fish activity monitoring to confirm absence of sedation effects while maintaining natural swimming patterns and feeding responses that indicate proper fish welfare.
[0034] Furthermore, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate having chemical composition CH3NaO4S in a concentration range of 1 ppm to 5 ppm as an ammonia detoxifier. In general, the fish experience severe ammonia toxicity during last-mile transport as ammonia levels accumulate to toxic concentrations of 2 ppm to 4 ppm due to increased excretion under stress conditions, confined water volume, and limited filtration capacity during transport. Conventional ammonia control methods provide slow neutralization and often cause secondary pH disruption that creates additional stress factors. The chemical formulation 104 of the present disclosure addresses the limitation of the conventional ammonia control methods by including sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate, which neutralizes ammonia according to the reaction:
NH3 + CH3NaO4S ? CH3NH2SO3Na

[0035] The neutralization reaction of the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate is configured to convert toxic ammonia into non-toxic methionine sulfonate through direct chemical conversion that provides rapid ammonia reduction over 45-60 minutes, which delivers immediate ammonia neutralization from toxic 3.2 ppm to safe levels below 1.0 ppm within 30 minutes while maintaining water pH stability without secondary chemical disruption, unlike conventional methods that often cause pH fluctuations and require buffering agents that complicate treatment protocols. In an example, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate having chemical composition CH3NaO4S in a concentration of 1 ppm. In another example, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate having chemical composition CH3NaO4S in a concentration of 5 ppm. In yet another example, the chemical formulation 104 includes sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate having chemical composition CH3NaO4S in a concentration of 3 ppm. The specific concentration range of the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate ranging from 1 ppm to 5 ppm is essential to provide optimal ammonia neutralization capacity while preventing over-treatment above 5 ppm that could cause excessive pH buffering effects and avoiding insufficient neutralization below 1 ppm that fails to counteract toxic ammonia accumulation effectively.
[0036] In accordance with an embodiment, the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate is present in a concentration of 3 ppm and configured to provide ammonia neutralization by converting 70-80% of toxic ammonia spikes into non-toxic methionine sulfonate while maintaining water pH stability. The 3 ppm concentration of the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate represents an optimal balance between maximum ammonia neutralization efficiency and prevention of over-treatment effects that could cause excessive chemical buffering or secondary water chemistry disruption during sensitive transport conditions. Furthermore, the 3 ppm concentration of the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate provides controlled neutralization kinetics that converts ammonia at approximately 0.13 ppm per minute during the first 45 minutes, followed by sustained neutralization activity maintaining ammonia levels below 1.0 ppm for more than 2 hours post-application. The neutralization parameters are determined through controlled laboratory studies using ammonia-selective electrodes with continuous monitoring at 10-minute intervals over 180-minute test periods in simulated transport water conditions with initial ammonia concentrations of 3.2 ppm. Thus, by virtue of adding the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate into the chemical formulation 104, the chemical formulation 104 is configured to provide peak ammonia reduction of 78% at 60 minutes with sustained maintenance of ammonia levels below 0.8 ppm for 120 minutes, providing superior ammonia control compared to higher or lower concentrations. The optimal 3 ppm concentration was validated through comparative testing of concentrations ranging from 1 ppm to 7 ppm, with ammonia measurements performed using calibrated ion-selective electrodes and pH monitoring conducted using digital pH meters to confirm maintenance of pH stability within ±0.2 units while achieving maximum neutralization efficiency without secondary water chemistry disruption that could stress transported fish.
[0037] In accordance with an embodiment, the sodium percarbonate acts as an oxygen carrier to maintain dissolved oxygen levels and counteract sudden oxygen drops during transport, the yucca extract powder comprises natural compounds that reduce stress hormones in fish and promote a calmer state during high-stress transport situations, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate neutralizes ammonia spikes to prevent ammonia toxicity and tissue damage in transported fish. The sodium percarbonate functions as an oxygen carrier through controlled chemical decomposition whereby the perhydrate compound releases molecular oxygen according to a stoichiometric reaction 2Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 ? 2Na2CO3 + 3H2O + 1.5O2?, providing sustained oxygen release that maintains dissolved oxygen concentrations within the therapeutic range of 6-8 mg/L through gradual decomposition over 3-4 hours, which offers immediate oxygen supplementation that counteracts hypoxic conditions within 15 minutes providing the dissolved oxygen levels of 7.8 mg/L compared to critical baseline levels of 3.4 mg/L, unlike conventional aeration systems that require continuous external power and equipment. Concurrently, the yucca extract powder comprises natural steroidal saponins, particularly sarasaponin compounds, that function as cortisol receptor antagonists through competitive binding mechanisms where sarasaponin molecules possess steroidal backbone structures that mimic cortisol configuration, enabling binding to cortisol receptors in fish tissues and blocking stress hormone signalling pathways via interference with the hypothalamic-pituitary-interregnal (HPI) axis activation, thereby providing targeted stress hormone reduction achieving 60-70% cortisol suppression within 30 minutes without causing sedation or behavioural impairment, which maintains normal swimming patterns, feeding responses, and defensive behaviours essential for fish survival while preventing stress-induced immunosuppression and preserving fish quality characteristics important for market value. Simultaneously, the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate functions as an ammonia detoxifier through direct chemical neutralization whereby the methyl sulfonate compound reacts with dissolved ammonia according to the reaction NH3 + CH3NaO4S ? CH3NH2SO3Na, converting toxic ammonia into non-toxic methionine sulfonate through nucleophilic substitution where ammonia displaces the sulfonate group, forming stable water-soluble amino acid derivatives that provide rapid ammonia neutralization achieving 70-80% toxic ammonia reduction within 60 minutes, converting harmful ammonia levels from 3.2 ppm to safe concentrations below 0.8 ppm while maintaining water pH stability within ±0.2 units, which eliminates toxic effects while producing beneficial amino acid derivatives that may support fish metabolism. The coordinated action of all three components provides synergistic therapeutic effects that address oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, and ammonia toxicity simultaneously, achieving superior fish welfare outcomes through integrated mechanisms that operate autonomously without dependency on external equipment, eliminate the need for multiple separate interventions, and ensure compatible chemical interactions without antagonistic effects between components, thereby providing comprehensive emergency treatment capability specifically designed for the critical last-mile transportation phase where rapid intervention within narrow therapeutic windows is essential for fish survival and market value preservation.
[0038] Moreover, the chemical formulation 104 provides synergistic effects of simultaneous stress reduction, oxygen stabilization, ammonia detoxification, and electrolyte balance achieved through sodium ions from the sodium percarbonate and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate. The synergistic effects occur through coordinated physiological pathways where oxygen stabilization reduces metabolic stress demands on fish, enabling more efficient cortisol regulation and improved stress hormone processing, while simultaneous ammonia detoxification eliminates respiratory irritation that would otherwise exacerbate stress responses and increase oxygen consumption requirements. The sodium ions released from both sodium percarbonate and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate during their respective decomposition and neutralization processes contribute to electrolyte balance by maintaining proper osmotic pressure and supporting cellular membrane stability, which enhances the effectiveness of stress reduction mechanisms and improves oxygen uptake efficiency at the gill level. The integrated approach creates positive feedback loops where reduced stress hormones decrease metabolic oxygen demand, allowing stabilized oxygen levels to be more effectively utilized for cellular repair and normal physiological function, while eliminated ammonia toxicity reduces gill irritation and improves respiratory efficiency, further enhancing oxygen absorption and utilization. Moreover, the electrolyte balance achieved through sodium ion supplementation supports proper nerve transmission and muscle function, reducing physical stress responses and enabling fish to better cope with remaining transport stressors, while the combined effect of all four mechanisms working simultaneously prevents the cascade of physiological dysfunction that typically occurs when individual stressors compound each other during last-mile transport. Thus, the synergistic integration provides therapeutic outcomes that exceed the additive effects of individual components, providing comprehensive physiological support that addresses the interconnected nature of transport-induced stress factors through coordinated intervention across multiple biological systems, resulting in superior fish welfare protection and survival rates compared to single-function treatments that fail to address the complex interplay of physiological stressors encountered during critical last-mile transportation phases.
[0039] Furthermore, the synergistic combination reduces fish mortality from baseline 15-25% to 3-5% when administered within 30 minutes of unloading during the critical last-mile transport phase. The mortality reduction occurs through prevention of physiological cascade failures that typically manifest during the 30 to 60 minute of post-unloading period when fish experience peak stress hormone elevation, progressive hypoxic deterioration, and ammonia toxicity accumulation that collectively overwhelm their adaptive capacity. The rapid oxygen stabilization prevents hypoxic shock and tissue damage that would otherwise progress to irreversible cellular dysfunction, while simultaneous stress hormone reduction through cortisol receptor binding interrupts the stress-induced metabolic dysfunction that typically leads to immune suppression, behavioural depression, and eventual mortality. Furthermore, the ammonia detoxification eliminates respiratory distress and gill damage that would compromise oxygen uptake even when dissolved oxygen levels are adequate, preventing the downward spiral where ammonia toxicity impairs respiratory function leading to hypoxic stress despite available oxygen. The 30-minute application window is critical because the 30-minute application window precedes the peak cortisol surge that occurs 45-60 minutes post-stress, allowing intervention before stress hormones reach levels that cause irreversible physiological damage, while early oxygen supplementation prevents progression from reversible hypoxic stress to irreversible tissue necrosis, and immediate ammonia neutralization stops gill damage before respiratory function becomes permanently compromised. The synergistic effect amplifies mortality reduction because addressing all three primary stressors simultaneously prevents the compounding effects where one untreated stressor exacerbates others, creating a therapeutic environment where fish can rapidly recover normal physiological function rather than expending energy fighting multiple simultaneous threats.
[0040] In operation, when the fish unloading from the transport tank 102 takes place, the controller 116 initiates system operation upon detecting fish unloading events, triggering the monitoring unit 106 to assess baseline water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia levels, and fish stress indicators within the transport tank 102, while simultaneously activating the preparation and dosing unit 110 to calculate precise formulation quantities based on fish biomass and tank volume using predetermined algorithms. The preparation and dosing unit 110 automatically mixes the chemical formulation 104 components according to validated protocols and delivers the precisely measured treatment directly into the transport tank 102, where the mixing unit 108 ensures uniform distribution throughout the water volume to achieve consistent therapeutic concentrations across all areas where fish are present. Concurrently, the temperature and environment control unit 112 maintains optimal environmental conditions to support formulation effectiveness while the testing apparatus 114 continuously monitors treatment progress and water quality changes, providing real-time feedback to the controller 116 for automated adjustments if required. The monitoring unit 106 tracks fish behavioural responses and physiological indicators throughout the treatment period, enabling the controller 116 to verify therapeutic outcomes and maintain intervention protocols within the critical 30-minute application window, while the integrated system operation eliminates manual intervention requirements and ensures consistent treatment delivery regardless of operator experience or field conditions, thereby providing reliable emergency response capability that addresses oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, and ammonia toxicity simultaneously through coordinated automated mechanisms designed specifically for last-mile transportation challenges.
[0041] Advantageously, the chemical formulation 104 utilized in the system 100 provides a comprehensive last-mile fish transportation solution that achieves 80-85% mortality reduction compared to baseline conditions through synergistic integration of oxygen stabilization, stress hormone control, and ammonia detoxification within a single formulation. The chemical formulation 104 operates autonomously without dependency on external equipment or continuous power supply, eliminating the complexity and reliability issues associated with mechanical aeration systems while providing sustained therapeutic effects for 3-4 hours through controlled chemical release mechanisms. Furthermore, the chemical formulation 104 delivers immediate intervention capability within the critical 30-minute application window, preventing irreversible physiological damage that occurs during peak stress hormone elevation and enabling fish to rapidly recover normal metabolic function rather than expending energy fighting multiple simultaneous stressors. The natural component integration (i.e., the inclusion of the yucca extract powder) ensures food safety compliance without withdrawal periods while maintaining fish alertness and natural behaviours essential for market appeal, preserving 90-95% of market value compared to 60-70% retention with conventional methods. Moreover, the chemical formulation 104 provides universal applicability across multiple freshwater fish species with consistent performance under variable field conditions, eliminating the need for species-specific treatment protocols while ensuring regulatory compliance through food-grade components. The synergistic effect of the chemical formulation 104 is configured to addresses the interconnected nature of transport-induced physiological dysfunction through coordinated intervention across multiple biological systems, providing therapeutic outcomes that exceed additive effects of individual components and providing an enhanced fish welfare protection.
[0042] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for preparing a chemical formulation for treating fish during last-mile transport, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 2, there is shown a method 200 for preparing the chemical formulation 104 for treating fish during last-mile transport. The method 200 is executed by the system 100.
[0043] There is provided the method 200 for preparing the chemical formulation 104 for treating fish during last-mile transport.
[0044] The method 200 addresses the critical need for standardized preparation protocols for preparing the chemical formulation 104 that ensure consistent therapeutic efficacy of the chemical formulation 104 across diverse operational conditions while maintaining component stability and bioavailability throughout the preparation process for integration with the system 100 and optimal performance of the chemical formulation 104. The method 200 provides systematic procedures for combining multiple chemical compounds in precise ratios to achieve synergistic therapeutic effects specifically optimized for emergency intervention during the critical last-mile transportation phase where rapid, reliable formulation preparation is essential for fish survival, while ensuring compatibility with the preparation and dosing unit 110 of the system 100, while ensuring that the chemical formulation 104 maintains optimal concentrations and component ratios necessary for achieving 80-85% mortality reduction through coordinated oxygen stabilization, stress hormone control, and ammonia detoxification mechanisms. The method 200 includes steps 202 to 206.
[0045] At step 202, the method 200 includes mixing the sodium percarbonate, the yucca extract powder, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in predetermined concentrations. The proper mixing of the sodium percarbonate, the yucca extract powder, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate ensures accurate proportioning of each therapeutic component according to validated concentration ranges that provide optimal individual and synergistic effects while preventing component interactions that could reduce efficacy or create adverse reactions. The predetermined concentrations are established through extensive testing to achieve maximum therapeutic benefit while maintaining safety margins that prevent overdosing or under-treatment scenarios that could compromise fish welfare during emergency. In accordance with an embodiment, the mixing comprises combining sodium percarbonate in a concentration of 10 ppm to 20 ppm, yucca extract powder in a concentration of 30 ppm to 50 ppm, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in a concentration of 1 ppm to 5 ppm. The specific concentration ranges of the sodium percarbonate, the yucca extract powder, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate ensure therapeutic efficacy while preventing adverse effects, where sodium percarbonate concentrations within 10 ppm to 20 ppm provide optimal oxygen release without causing oversaturation, yucca extract powder concentrations of 30 ppm to 50 ppm deliver effective stress hormone reduction without digestive disruption, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate concentrations of 1 ppm to 5 ppm provide ammonia neutralization without pH disruption, collectively providing balanced therapeutic intervention across all primary stressors encountered during last-mile transport.
[0046] At step 204, the method 200 includes homogenizing the mixture to form a uniform chemical formulation 104. The homogenization of the mixture containing the sodium percarbonate, the yucca extract powder, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in predetermined concentrations ensures complete integration of all components to achieve consistent concentration distribution throughout the chemical formulation 104, preventing concentration gradients or component segregation that could result in variable therapeutic effects during application. Moreover, the homogenization of the mixture containing sodium percarbonate, the yucca extract powder, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in predetermined concentrations creates uniform particle suspension and molecular distribution essential for predictable dissolution rates and bioavailability when the formulation is introduced into aquatic environments. In accordance with an embodiment, the homogenizing is performed using mechanical mixing at 100 RPM for 5 minutes while maintaining temperature at 25 °C to 30°C and pH at 7.5-8.5 to achieve coefficient of variation less than 5% for particle distribution. The specific parameters, such as maintaining temperature at 25 °C to 30°C and pH at 7.5 to 8.5 ensure ideal mixing efficiency while preventing component degradation that could occur at higher temperatures or extreme pH conditions, where the 100 RPM mixing speed provides sufficient turbulence for complete homogenization without creating excessive shear forces that could damage yucca extract particles, the 5-minute duration ensures complete distribution without over-processing, and the controlled temperature and pH ranges maintain component stability while achieving the less than 5% coefficient of variation that guarantees uniform therapeutic potency throughout the chemical formulation 104.
[0047] Furthermore, the chemical formulation 104 is configured to reduce fish stress, stabilize oxygen levels, detoxify ammonia, and balance electrolytes during fish transportation. The multi-functional capability of the chemical formulation 104 results from the synergistic integration of the different chemical compounds (i.e., the sodium percarbonate, the yucca extract powder, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate) of the chemical formulation 104, provided through proper preparation methodology where each component retains individual therapeutic properties while contributing to coordinated physiological intervention that addresses the complex multi-factorial nature of transport-induced stress through simultaneous mechanisms targeting different but interconnected biological systems essential for fish survival and welfare.
[0048] At step 206, the method 200 includes validating the stability of the chemical formulation 104 by confirming that the homogenized mixture maintains component integrity and functional activity for at least 24 hours under ambient storage conditions. The validation of the stability of the chemical formulation 104 ensures reliable therapeutic performance by verifying that the preparation process creates the uniform chemical formulation 104, capable of maintaining potency during storage and transport periods typical of commercial operations, where the confirmation of the integrity of different chemical compounds prevents degradation that could reduce efficacy, and functional activity validation ensures that therapeutic mechanisms remain active throughout the storage period, providing confidence in formulation reliability for emergency applications where consistent performance is critical for fish survival.
[0049] Advantageously, the method 200 provides standardized preparation protocols that ensure consistent therapeutic efficacy of the chemical formulation 104 across diverse operational environments while eliminating variability associated with manual preparation techniques. The method 200 enables reliable preparation of the synergistic three-component formulation with precise concentration control that guarantees optimal individual and combined therapeutic effects, achieving consistent 80-85% mortality reduction performance regardless of operator experience or field conditions. The systematic approach utilized by the method 200 ensures seamless integration with the system 100 through programmable protocols that can be executed by the preparation and dosing unit 110 under the controller 116 supervision, eliminating human error and providing rapid emergency response capability within the critical 30-minute intervention window. The method 200 further maintains component stability and bioavailability through controlled homogenization parameters that preserve therapeutic integrity while achieving uniform distribution essential for predictable dissolution and therapeutic outcomes when applied in aquatic environments. The inclusion of the validation protocols ensure 24-hour formulation stability under ambient conditions, providing operational flexibility for advance preparation and storage without compromising therapeutic effectiveness.
[0050] The steps 202 to 206 are only illustrative, and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claim herein.
[0051] FIG.3 is a flowchart of a method for treating fish during last-mile transport, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIGs. 1 and 2. With reference to FIG. 3, there is shown a method 300 for treating fish during last-mile transport. The method includes steps 302 to 306.
[0052] At step 302, the method 300 includes determining a dosage of the chemical formulation 104 based on fish weight and tank volume. The dosage determination ensures precise therapeutic delivery by accounting for the biological load represented by fish biomass and the dilution volume of the aquatic environment, where fish weight determines the metabolic stress load and oxygen consumption demands that must be addressed, while the volume of the transportation tank affects the concentration distribution and residence time of therapeutic components throughout the treatment environment. The dosage calculation incorporates validated algorithms that consider the synergistic effects of all three chemical compounds within the chemical formulation 104, ensuring that sodium percarbonate provides adequate oxygen supplementation relative to fish respiratory demands, yucca extract powder delivers sufficient sarasaponin concentration for effective cortisol receptor binding based on fish stress hormone production, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate achieves optimal ammonia neutralization capacity relative to fish excretion rates and water volume dilution factors, thereby providing individualized treatment protocols that maximize therapeutic efficacy while preventing over-treatment that could cause adverse effects or under-treatment that fails to address critical physiological stressors.
[0053] At step 304, the method 300 includes adding the chemical formulation 104 to fish holding tanks (i.e., the transport tank 102) upon unloading fish from transit vehicles. The immediate application timing is critical because the fishes experience peak physiological stress during the unloading transition when accumulated transport stressors combine with handling trauma and environmental changes to create maximum vulnerability to mortality-inducing cascade failures. The addition of the chemical formulation 104 ensures rapid distribution of therapeutic components throughout the transport tank 102 where fish are experiencing acute stress responses, enabling immediate intervention before stress hormone levels reach irreversible damage thresholds and providing emergency stabilization during the most critical phase of last-mile transportation.
[0054] At step 306, the method 300 includes allowing the chemical formulation 104 to revive lethargic fish and stabilize water conditions, wherein the method 300 is configured to enhance the fish survival rates and reduces post-transport mortality. The revival of the lethargic fish occurs through coordinated therapeutic mechanisms where oxygen stabilization from sodium percarbonate immediately counteracts hypoxic lethargy by restoring dissolved oxygen levels from critical 3.4 mg/L to optimal 6-8 mg/L, while stress hormone reduction from yucca extract powder promotes behavioural recovery through cortisol receptor binding that reduces stress-induced lethargy and restores normal swimming patterns and feeding responses essential for fish vitality. Moreover, the water condition stabilization eliminates toxic ammonia accumulation through sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate neutralization that prevents respiratory distress and gill damage, while sodium ion supplementation from both components restores electrolyte balance that supports cellular function and nerve transmission necessary for fish activity and alertness.
[0055] In accordance with an embodiment, the chemical formulation 104 is administered within 30 minutes of unloading fish from transit vehicles. The 30-minute administration window is essential because the administration window precedes the peak cortisol surge that occurs 45-60 minutes post-stress, allowing therapeutic intervention before stress hormones reach concentrations that cause irreversible immunosuppression, metabolic dysfunction, and behavioural depression leading to mortality. The administration window of 30 minutes enables prevention of physiological cascade failures by intervening during the reversible stress response phase when fish retain adaptive capacity and can respond effectively to therapeutic support, while delayed administration beyond 30 minutes encounters progressively compromised physiological systems that require more intensive intervention and demonstrate reduced therapeutic responsiveness.
[0056] Advantageously, the method 300 provides a systematic treatment protocol that achieves 80-85% mortality reduction compared to baseline conditions through precise dosage calculation and critical timing intervention that maximizes therapeutic effectiveness during the most vulnerable phase of fish transportation. Moreover, the method 300 enables rapid emergency response capability by providing standardized procedures for immediate application within the essential 30-minute window that precedes irreversible physiological damage, ensuring consistent therapeutic outcomes regardless of operator experience or field conditions. The individualized dosage determination based on fish weight and tank volume ensures optimal therapeutic delivery that prevents both over-treatment and under-treatment scenarios while maximizing cost-effectiveness through precise resource utilization tailored to specific operational requirements. Additionally, the method 300 provides comprehensive physiological intervention that simultaneously addresses oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, and ammonia toxicity through coordinated mechanisms that restore normal fish behaviour, eliminate lethargy, and stabilize water conditions essential for fish survival and market value preservation.
[0057] The steps 302 to 306 are only illustrative, and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claim herein.
[0058] FIG. 4 is a graphical representation illustrating the effectiveness of different chemical compounds of the chemical formulation at specified concentrations, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIGs. 1 to 3. With reference to FIG. 4, there is shown a graphical representation 400 illustrating the effectiveness of different chemical compounds of the chemical formulation 104 at specified concentrations, measured in terms of individual component performance efficiency. The effectiveness percentage is expressed along the ordinate axis 402, ranging from 30% to 100%, while the different chemical compounds at the optimal concentrations are depicted along an abscissa axis 404. The graphical representation 400 includes a plurality of bars depicting the individual effectiveness of sodium percarbonate at a concentration of 15 ppm, yucca extract at a concentration of 40 ppm, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate at a concentration of 3 ppm, showing the performance contribution of each chemical compound within the synergistic formulation.
[0059] The graphical representation 400 includes a first bar 406 depicting the effectiveness of sodium percarbonate at a concentration of 15 ppm, showing approximately 95% effectiveness in oxygen stabilization and dissolved oxygen maintenance, representing optimal performance for counteracting hypoxic conditions during last-mile transport. Moreover, the graphical representation 400 includes a second bar 408, which depicts the effectiveness of yucca extract at a concentration of 40 ppm, showing approximately 98% effectiveness in stress hormone reduction and cortisol receptor binding, indicating superior performance for alleviating transport-induced stress responses. The graphical representation 400 includes a third bar 410 represents the effectiveness of sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate at a concentration of 3 ppm, showing approximately 92% effectiveness in ammonia neutralization and detoxification, demonstrating optimal performance for eliminating toxic ammonia accumulation during transport operations.
[0060] Therefore, the graphical representation 400 indicates that all three chemical compounds (i.e., sodium percarbonate at a concentration of 15 ppm, yucca extract at a concentration of 40 ppm, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate at a concentration of 3 ppm) demonstrate high individual effectiveness ranging from 92% to 98%, reflecting the optimal concentration selection for each component that maximizes therapeutic performance while preventing adverse effects. The substantial effectiveness of individual components at the specified concentrations provides the foundation for synergistic integration within the chemical formulation 104, where the combined effectiveness exceeds 99% through coordinated mechanisms that address oxygen depletion, stress hormone elevation, and ammonia toxicity simultaneously, resulting in the superior fish welfare protection and 80-85% mortality reduction achieved during the critical 30-minute treatment window of last-mile transportation.
[0061] FIG. 5 is a graphical representation illustrating the dissolved oxygen maintenance shown by the chemical formulation over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIGs. 1 to 4. With reference to FIG. 5, there is shown a graphical representation 500 illustrating the dissolved oxygen maintenance shown by the chemical formulation 104 over time , measured in terms of dissolved oxygen levels sustained throughout the treatment period. The dissolved oxygen concentration is expressed along the ordinate axis 502, ranging from 2.0 mg/L to 8.0 mg/L, while the time intervals are depicted along an abscissa axis 504, ranging from 0 minutes to 180 minutes post-application. The graphical representation 500 includes a plurality of bars depicting the dissolved oxygen levels at different time intervals, showing the sustained oxygen release performance of sodium percarbonate within the chemical formulation 104 during the critical treatment period.
[0062] The graphical representation 500 includes a first bar 502A depicting the baseline dissolved oxygen level at 0 minutes, showing approximately 3.4 mg/L representing the critical hypoxic conditions experienced by fish before treatment application. Moreover, the graphical representation 500 includes a second bar 502B depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 5 minutes post-application, showing approximately 6.8 mg/L, indicating rapid oxygen release and immediate therapeutic response. Furthermore, the graphical representation 500 includes a third bar 502C depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 10 minutes, showing approximately 7.5 mg/L, demonstrating continued oxygen stabilization. Moreover, the graphical representation 500 includes a fourth bar 502D depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 15 minutes, showing approximately 7.8 mg/L, representing peak oxygen concentration achieved during the treatment period. Also, the graphical representation 500 includes a fifth bar 502E depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 30 minutes, showing approximately 7.2 mg/L, indicating sustained therapeutic levels within the critical application window. Furthermore, the graphical representation 500 includes a sixth bar 502F depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 60 minutes, showing approximately 6.8 mg/L, demonstrating continued oxygen maintenance. Moreover, the graphical representation 500 includes a seventh bar 502G depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 120 minutes, showing approximately 6.5 mg/L, indicating prolonged therapeutic effectiveness. Additionally, the graphical representation 500 includes an eighth bar 502H depicting the dissolved oxygen level at 180 minutes, showing approximately 6.3 mg/L, demonstrating sustained oxygen levels above therapeutic thresholds for extended duration.
[0063] Therefore, the graphical representation 500 indicates that the chemical formulation 104 provides immediate and sustained dissolved oxygen enhancement from critical baseline levels of 3.4 mg/L to optimal therapeutic levels of 6-8 mg/L, with peak performance achieved at 15 minutes (7.8 mg/L) and sustained maintenance above 6.0 mg/L for the entire 180-minute monitoring period. The sustained dissolved oxygen maintenance demonstrates the effectiveness of sodium percarbonate at a concentration of 15 ppm in providing controlled oxygen release kinetics that counteract hypoxic conditions and support fish respiratory requirements throughout the critical last-mile transportation phase, contributing to the overall therapeutic performance of the chemical formulation 104 in achieving 80-85% mortality reduction through coordinated physiological intervention.
[0064] FIG. 6 is a graphical representation illustrating the stress hormone reduction of fishes over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIGs. 1 to 5. With reference to FIG. 6, there is shown a graphical representation 600 illustrating the stress hormone reduction of fishes over time, measured in terms of cortisol reduction percentage achieved through the application of the chemical formulation 104. The stress hormone reduction percentage is expressed along the ordinate axis 602, ranging from 10% to 80%, while the time intervals are depicted along an abscissa axis 604, showing measurements at 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and 60 minutes post-application. The graphical representation 600 includes a plurality of bars depicting the progressive stress hormone reduction achieved by yucca extract powder within the chemical formulation 104 during the critical treatment period.
[0065] The graphical representation 600 includes a first bar 606A depicting the stress hormone reduction at 15 minutes post-application, showing approximately 45% cortisol reduction, indicating initial therapeutic response through sarasaponin binding to cortisol receptors. Moreover, the graphical representation 600 includes a second bar 606B depicting the stress hormone reduction at 30 minutes, showing approximately 65% cortisol reduction, demonstrating progressive therapeutic effectiveness as yucca extract achieves optimal receptor occupancy. Furthermore, the graphical representation 600 includes a third bar 606C depicting the stress hormone reduction at 45 minutes, showing approximately 70% cortisol reduction, representing peak therapeutic performance achieved through maximum cortisol receptor binding efficiency. Finally, the graphical representation 600 includes a fourth bar 606D depicting the stress hormone reduction at 60 minutes, showing approximately 68% cortisol reduction, indicating sustained therapeutic effectiveness with maintained cortisol suppression levels.
[0066] Therefore, the graphical representation 600 indicates that the chemical formulation 104 provides progressive and sustained stress hormone reduction from initial 45% cortisol suppression at 15 minutes to peak performance of 70% reduction at 45 minutes, with sustained effectiveness maintaining 68% cortisol suppression at 60 minutes post-application. The progressive stress hormone reduction demonstrates the effectiveness of yucca extract powder at a concentration of 40 ppm in providing targeted cortisol receptor binding that alleviates transport-induced stress responses without causing sedation effects, contributing to the overall therapeutic performance of the chemical formulation 104 in maintaining fish alertness and natural behaviours while achieving 80-85% mortality reduction through coordinated physiological intervention during the critical last-mile transportation phase.
[0067] FIG. 7 is a graphical representation illustrating the ammonia neutralization shown by the chemical formulation over time, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIGs. 1 to 6. With reference to FIG. 7, there is shown a graphical representation 700 illustrating the ammonia neutralization shown by the chemical formulation 104 over time, measured in terms of ammonia concentration reduction achieved throughout the treatment period. The ammonia concentration is expressed along the ordinate axis 702, ranging from 0.0 ppm to 4.0 ppm, while the time intervals are depicted along an abscissa axis 704, ranging from 0 minutes to 60 minutes post-application. The graphical representation 700 includes a plurality of bars depicting the progressive ammonia neutralization achieved by sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate within the chemical formulation 104 during the critical treatment period, with a trend line showing the continuous reduction in toxic ammonia levels.
[0068] The graphical representation 700 includes a first bar 706A depicting the baseline ammonia concentration at 0 minutes, showing approximately 3.2 ppm representing the toxic ammonia levels accumulated during transport before treatment application. Moreover, the graphical representation 700 includes a second bar 706B depicting the ammonia concentration at 5 minutes post-application, showing approximately 2.8 ppm, indicating initial neutralization response through chemical conversion of toxic ammonia. Furthermore, the graphical representation 700 includes a third bar 706C depicting the ammonia concentration at 10 minutes, showing approximately 2.3 ppm, demonstrating progressive ammonia reduction through continued neutralization activity. Moreover, the graphical representation 700 includes a fourth bar 706D depicting the ammonia concentration at 15 minutes, showing approximately 1.8 ppm, representing significant ammonia detoxification progress. Also, the graphical representation 700 includes a fifth bar 706E depicting the ammonia concentration at 30 minutes, showing approximately 1.4 ppm, indicating sustained neutralization within the critical application window. Furthermore, the graphical representation 700 includes a sixth bar 706F depicting the ammonia concentration at 45 minutes, showing approximately 1.0 ppm, demonstrating achievement of safe ammonia threshold levels. Moreover, the graphical representation 700 includes a seventh bar 706G depicting the ammonia concentration at 60 minutes, showing approximately 0.8 ppm, indicating optimal ammonia neutralization and sustained safe levels. Finaly, the graphical representation 700 includes an eighth bar 706H depicting the ammonia concentration at 60 minutes, showing approximately 0.7 ppm, representing continued ammonia reduction to optimal therapeutic levels.
[0069] Therefore, the graphical representation 700 indicates that the chemical formulation 104 provides progressive and sustained ammonia neutralization from toxic baseline levels of 3.2 ppm to safe therapeutic levels below 1.0 ppm within 45 minutes, with continued reduction to optimal levels of 0.7 ppm at 60 minutes post-application. The progressive ammonia neutralization demonstrates the effectiveness of sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate at a concentration of 3 ppm in providing controlled chemical conversion of toxic ammonia into non-toxic methionine sulfonate, eliminating respiratory distress and gill damage while maintaining water pH stability, contributing to the overall therapeutic performance of the chemical formulation 104 in achieving 80-85% mortality reduction through coordinated physiological intervention during the critical last-mile transportation phase.
[0070] FIG. 8 is a graphical representation illustrating the enhance survival rates among different fish species during the live fish transportation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is described in conjunction with the elements of the FIGs. 1 to 7. With reference to FIG. 8, there is shown a graphical representation 800 illustrating the enhance survival rates among different fish species during the live fish transportation, measured in terms of survival rate percentage achieved through the application of the chemical formulation 104 across multiple freshwater fish species. The survival rate percentage is expressed along the ordinate axis 802, ranging from 74% to 100%, while the different fish species are depicted along an abscissa axis 804, showing Labeo rohita, Catla catla, H. Molitrix, and O. niloticus. The graphical representation 800 includes a plurality of bars depicting the individual survival performance of different fish species treated with the chemical formulation 104, demonstrating the universal effectiveness and species compatibility of the synergistic therapeutic intervention.
[0071] The graphical representation 800 includes a first bar 806A depicting the survival rate of Labeo rohita, showing approximately 96.5% survival rate, indicating excellent therapeutic response and species compatibility with the chemical formulation 104. Moreover, the graphical representation 800 includes a second bar 806B depicting the survival rate of Catla catla, showing approximately 95.5% survival rate, demonstrating effective therapeutic performance across native Indian fish species. Furthermore, the graphical representation 800 includes a third bar 806C depicting the survival rate of H. Molitrix, showing approximately 97% survival rate, representing the highest survival performance among tested species and indicating optimal therapeutic responsiveness. Additionally, the graphical representation 800 includes a fourth bar 806D depicting the survival rate of O. niloticus, showing approximately 96% survival rate, demonstrating consistent therapeutic effectiveness across internationally important aquaculture species.
[0072] Therefore, the graphical representation 800 indicates that the chemical formulation 104 provides consistently high survival rates ranging from 95.5% to 97% across all tested fish species, with an average survival rate of 96.3% and minimal species-to-species variation of ±0.7%, reflecting the universal effectiveness and broad applicability of the synergistic therapeutic intervention. The consistent survival performance across multiple freshwater fish species including both native Indian species (Labeo rohita, Catla catla) and internationally important varieties (H. Molitrix, O. niloticus) demonstrates the robust therapeutic capability of the chemical formulation 104 in achieving 80-85% mortality reduction compared to baseline conditions through coordinated oxygen stabilization, stress hormone control, and ammonia detoxification mechanisms that operate effectively across diverse fish physiologies during the critical last-mile transportation phase.
[0073] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe, and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance or illustration". Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and/or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments. The word "optionally" is used herein to mean "is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments". It is appreciated that certain features of the present disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the present disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure.
,CLAIMS:CLAIMS
I/We claim:
1. A chemical formulation (104) for treating fish during last-mile transport comprising:
sodium percarbonate having chemical composition Na2CO3·1.5H2O2 in a concentration range of 10 ppm to 20 ppm as an oxygen stabilizer;
yucca extract powder in a concentration range of 30 ppm to 50 ppm comprising 80% Yucca Schidigera extracted solids containing sarasaponin as bioactive compound and 20% food-grade silica as carrier, wherein the yucca extract powder serves as a stress alleviation agent that binds cortisol receptors and reduces stress hormones;
sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate having chemical composition CH3NaO4S in a concentration range of 1 ppm to 5 ppm as an ammonia detoxifier;
wherein the chemical formulation (104) provides synergistic effects of simultaneous stress reduction, oxygen stabilization, ammonia detoxification, and electrolyte balance achieved through sodium ions from the sodium percarbonate and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate, and wherein the synergistic combination reduces fish mortality from baseline 15-25% to 3-5% when administered within 30 minutes of unloading during the critical last-mile transport phase.
2. The chemical formulation (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sodium percarbonate functions as an oxygen carrier to maintain dissolved oxygen levels and counteract sudden oxygen drops during transport, the yucca extract powder comprises natural compounds that reduce stress hormones in fish and promote a calmer state during high-stress transport situations, and the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate neutralizes ammonia spikes to prevent ammonia toxicity and tissue damage in transported fish.
3. The chemical formulation (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sodium percarbonate is present in a concentration of 15 ppm to provide a balanced oxygen release kinetics for optimal dissolved oxygen maintenance at 6-8 mg/L.
4. The chemical formulation (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the yucca extract powder is present in a concentration of 40 ppm, comprising 80% Yucca schidigera extracted solids that is configured to maximize saponin efficacy for cortisol receptor binding and stress hormone reduction by 60-70%.
5. The chemical formulation (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate is present in a concentration of 3 ppm and configured to provide ammonia neutralization by converting 70-80% of toxic ammonia spikes into non-toxic methionine sulfonate while maintaining water pH stability.
6. A method for preparing a chemical formulation (104) for treating fish during last-mile transport comprising:
mixing sodium percarbonate, yucca extract powder, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in predetermined concentrations;
homogenizing the mixture to form a uniform chemical formulation (104), wherein the chemical formulation (104) is configured to reduce fish stress, stabilize oxygen levels, detoxify ammonia, and balance electrolytes during fish transportation; and
validating the formulation stability by confirming that the homogenized mixture maintains component integrity and functional activity for at least 24 hours under ambient storage conditions.
7. The method (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the mixing comprises combining sodium percarbonate in a concentration of 10 ppm to 20 ppm, yucca extract powder in a concentration of 30 ppm to 50 ppm, and sodium hydroxymethane sulfonate in a concentration of 1 ppm to 5 ppm.
8. The method (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the homogenizing is performed using mechanical mixing at 100 RPM for 5 minutes while maintaining temperature at 25-30°C and pH at 7.5-8.5 to achieve coefficient of variation less than 5% for particle distribution.
9. A method (300) for treating fish during last-mile transport comprising:
determining a dosage of the chemical formulation (104) as claimed in claim 1 based on fish weight and tank volume;
adding the chemical formulation (104) to fish holding tanks upon unloading fish from transit vehicles; and
allowing the chemical formulation (104) to revive lethargic fish and stabilize water conditions, wherein the method (300) is configured to enhance the fish survival rates and reduces post-transport mortality.
10. The method (300) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the chemical formulation (104) is administered within 30 minutes of unloading fish from transit vehicles.