In a landscape where aquaculture faces mounting challenges, particularly with the climbing perch, a new approach is making waves. Researchers at Rajamangala University of Technology Isan have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence to tackle disease management head-on. Led by Kosit Sriputhorn from the Department of Fisheries, this innovative project introduces a system that could transform how fish farmers monitor and manage the health of their stocks.
The Climbing Perch Disease Detection and Classification System (CPDDCS) is not just another tool in the toolbox; it represents a significant leap forward. Traditionally, disease management in aquaculture has been reactive, often leaving farmers scrambling to address issues after they arise. Sriputhorn explains, “With our system, we’re flipping the script. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive. We can catch problems before they escalate, saving time, resources, and ultimately, fish.”
At the heart of this system lies cutting-edge imaging technology and deep learning algorithms. By automating disease detection, CPDDCS can identify health issues in climbing perch with remarkable accuracy—97.61%, to be exact. This is no small feat, especially when you consider the system’s ability to process 1200 images per hour, responding to potential outbreaks in under a second. “It’s not just about speed; it’s about precision,” Sriputhorn adds, emphasizing the dual focus on efficiency and effectiveness.
The implications for the aquaculture industry are profound. As the global demand for sustainable food sources rises, the ability to manage fish health proactively could help ensure that climbing perch—an increasingly popular species—remains a viable option for farmers. The system’s high user satisfaction score of 95.81 on the System Usability Scale indicates that those in the field are not only ready for change but are eager to embrace it.
Beyond just improving fish health, this research aligns with broader agricultural goals. By advocating for the integration of AI technologies in farming practices, Sriputhorn and his team are making a case for investment in smart agricultural solutions. “If we want to meet global food security targets, we need to invest in technologies that can help us get there,” he asserts. The potential for AI to enhance not just aquaculture but the entire agricultural sector is immense.
The findings from this study were published in Smart Agricultural Technology, highlighting the importance of innovation in addressing the pressing challenges of food production. As the industry looks toward the future, the integration of AI-driven solutions like the CPDDCS could set the stage for a new era of sustainable aquaculture, paving the way for healthier fish and a more secure food supply.
