Importance

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Abstract

A novel and unique apparatus is disclosed for use in aerating water held in a container, such as a livewell in a fishing boat. The aeration apparatus receives fresh water through a conventional water distribution system, aspirates ambient air into the water, and discharges the mixture of fresh water and aspirated air within the livewell at a location substantially below its water level. Air is aspirated into the fresh water by means of a housing mounted above the water level in the livewell. The housing includes a main passageway through which the fresh water passes and an aspirating port in the housing wall which puts the main passageway in communication with ambient atmosphere above the livewell. A discharge tube receives the mixture of fresh water and aspirated air from the housing and directs it to a plurality of discharge ports positioned substantially below the livewell water level. The discharge ports are positioned and sized to disperse the mixture of fresh water and aspirated air throughout the livewell and to break up the aspirated air into small bubbles to facilitate and enhance oxygenation. A pump incorporated in the water distribution system can either draw fresh water for delivery to the aeration apparatus or, alternatively, it may recirculate livewell water to the aeration apparatus.

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First Claim