AIFISH Project

AI-Powered Precision Fish Biometry for Sustainable Aquaculture

The AIFISH project aims to design and build an innovative system consisting of an underwater stereo camera and Artificial Intelligence-based software capable of autonomously detecting the size and weight of fish in tanks or aquaculture cages.

Innovation Highlights

Advanced Stereo Camera

Innovative solutions for underwater stereo camera construction, designed specifically for challenging aquaculture environments with optimal precision and reliability.

AI Selection Algorithm

Novel approach for selecting and identifying elements detected by the artificial intelligence system, ensuring accurate fish recognition and measurement.

Innovative Training Method

Unique training methodology for the AI system, optimized for fish biometry in real-world aquaculture conditions.

Mobile-Accessible Interface

User interface accessible via mobile devices without requiring specialized technical skills, making it practical for everyday farm operations.

Project Objectives

The goal is to develop a solution that is:

Easy to use for operators with minimal training required
Affordable with costs compatible with Italian aquaculture companies, which are unfortunately still undercapitalized compared to foreign competitors
Practical for daily farm operations and production cycles
Reliable in real-world aquaculture environments

Benefits for Fish Farmers

By integrating an AIFISH system into the production cycle, a fish farmer can optimize production and costs from multiple perspectives:

Optimized Feed Management: By having awareness of growth rates, farmers can better dose feed, reducing waste or growth slowdowns
Labor Efficiency: With an autonomous animal measurement system, labor can be redirected to other activities
Reduced Fish Stress: Not having to manually sample fish (the most common alternative) reduces stress and mortality of the fish themselves
Precision Aquaculture Data: Collecting environmental data in tanks or cages simultaneously with size and weight measurements provides a more complete database for further precision aquaculture studies

Technology Readiness Level

Initial TRL

Elements Works, in collaboration with CREA (Council for Agricultural Research and Economics), has developed two demonstrator iterations that have proven technical feasibility and general system functionality. Both solutions have been briefly tested in both laboratory and marine environments (not in tanks).

Final TRL

Expected final TRL: 8. We believe we can bring the system to a commercial level — a level where the system will be ready for purchase by operators ("early adopters").

Status: Project completed and moving towards commercialization.

Keywords:

Precision aquaculture • Artificial intelligence • Edge computing • Underwater technology • Remote sensing

Partnership

The AIFISH project is a collaboration between Elements Works SRL and CREA (Council for Agricultural Research and Economics).

Funding

ECOSISTER Program (code ECS00000033) (PNRR) – Mission 4 Component 2, "From research to business", Investment 1.5, "Creation and strengthening of Innovation Ecosystems", construction of "Territorial R&D Leaders" - Cascade Call for companies under CUP funds F78H22000410006

This innovative system represents a significant step forward in making advanced AI technology accessible and affordable for the Italian aquaculture sector.