Scientists at the NAFC Marine Centre, in Scalloway, will use the two blocks of six individual cages as a working platform for a range of studies including vaccine and feed trials, as well as for farming species new to aquaculture.
The cages have also been earmarked for trials to assess the effectiveness of using wrasse as a biological lice treatment for salmon.
The specially designed polyethylene (PE) cages were delivered buy Oban-based manufacturer Fusion Marine.
The company said that the compact nature of the small, six metre square cages was ideal for researchers to carry out scientific work.
Fusion Marine production manager Neil Blackadder said: "These small cages have been specially designed for research tasks as they provide a safe and convenient means of carrying out important trials on finfish culture."
As part of the supply package, Fusion Marine developed a new safety decking system, based on its successful injection-moulded design already widely used by major fish farming companies.
Stretching aquaculture's horizons
UK - A Shetland-based maritime college has taken delivery of new fish farm cages which will be used in experimental trials.