This project will investigate the prospect of using acoustic sensing devices to monitor and estimate production in salmon and macroalgae production sites, both land-based and offshore. In order to do this, acoustic systems will be positioned in-situ to collect data (e.g., images/video, hydroacoustic backscatter) that could be employed to measure production. The potential of acoustic devices will be explored in land-based settings for the capability to detect and track individual fish and schools, macroalgae and fish biomass, and other parameters. In this way, the devices will be calibrated and ready to be employed for monitoring in offshore sites.

Nowadays, one of the most pressing concerns for the aquaculture industry is the assessment of the productivity in both land-based and offshore aquaculture facilities. Advanced remote sensing technology is useful, since it allows for real-time monitoring and the retrieved data can support prediction models; also, these are often non-invasive technologies and not affected by the turbidity of the water column.

These are the reasons why the aquaculture industries are interested in adopting these technologies, while the research is focused on their fine-tuning and implementation. This research will require fieldwork consistent with the deployment of hydroacoustic devices that will be tested in salmon and macroalgae growing locations, as well as acoustic data analysis using Echoview Software.

The aim is to generate valuable methods for in-situ real-time monitoring and production assessment, which will be combined with historical data and integrated into the production models produced as a part of the Production Assessment and Species Selection Tools project. Applying the real-time acquisition methods developed will be a clear advantage for the industry. Lastly, the benefits of this project extend beyond the target taxa, and it is expected that the outcomes will be applicable to several taxa in offshore aquaculture in Australia and New Zealand.