CETGA, the Galician Aquaculture Technology Center based in Ribeira, Spain, has secured funding from the Spanish government for its pioneering project known as Aquaculture 4.0. This initiative aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance various aspects of aquaculture production processes. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food in Spain has allocated EUR 260,805 (USD 283,950) to support this endeavor.
The primary focus of the Aquaculture 4.0 project is to utilize AI for conducting biomass analysis, welfare monitoring, water condition optimization, and streamlining decision-making within the aquaculture industry. Partnering with the Polytechnic University of Madrid, CETGA is also exploring the application of hyperspectral image analysis to further strengthen these objectives.
With the project commencing in 2021, it is expected to reach completion in the latter half of 2023. By integrating AI technologies into aquaculture practices, CETGA aims to revolutionize the industry, enhancing its efficiency and productivity.
Aquaculture, the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, shellfish, and seaweed, plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable food production and meeting the rising global demand for seafood. However, there are numerous challenges associated with this sector, including biomass management, animal welfare, and maintaining optimal water conditions. The implementation of AI-driven solutions has the potential to tackle these challenges effectively and revolutionize the way aquaculture is conducted.
Biomass analysis is a critical component for aquaculture management, determining factors such as fish stock levels and growth rates. By leveraging AI algorithms, CETGA aims to automate this process, precisely analyzing biomass data and providing valuable insights for farmers. Moreover, the project aims to enhance welfare monitoring, ensuring the well-being of aquatic species through AI-based techniques.
Water condition optimization is another pivotal aspect in aquaculture. By employing AI technologies, CETGA aspires to develop systems that can continuously monitor and analyze water quality parameters such as temperature, pH levels, and oxygen levels. This real-time analysis can help farmers make informed decisions and adopt preventive measures to ensure optimal conditions for the aquatic organisms.
The simplification of decision-making processes in aquaculture is yet another goal of the Aquaculture 4.0 project. With AI-powered tools, farmers can access comprehensive data and insights, aiding them in making informed decisions related to feed management, disease prevention, and growth optimization.
To further enhance the project’s objectives, CETGA is exploring the use of hyperspectral image analysis. This technology allows for the detailed spectral analysis of aquatic organisms and their surroundings, enabling precise detection of diseases, parasites, and other abnormalities. By leveraging hyperspectral imaging, farmers can proactively address potential issues, minimizing the risk of disease outbreaks and improving overall productivity.
CETGA’s partnership with the Polytechnic University of Madrid brings together expertise in aquaculture and AI, fostering innovation and knowledge exchange. By harnessing the power of AI and hyperspectral image analysis, the Aquaculture 4.0 project aims to propel the aquaculture industry into the future, optimizing production processes, ensuring sustainability, and meeting the growing global demand for seafood.
The funding received from the Spanish government demonstrates the commitment to advancing aquaculture technology. By investing in projects like Aquaculture 4.0, Spain recognizes the potential of AI in transforming the sector and driving its growth. With CETGA at the forefront of this initiative, the Spanish aquaculture industry is poised to embrace the benefits of AI, paving the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and prosperous future.
