Session: IMECE Undergraduate Research and Design Exposition

Paper Number: 118495

118495 - A Novel Methodology for Traditional Aqua-Farming 

Aquaculture, the commercial production of fish, is a significant industry in India, ranking second globally after China. However, traditional aquaculture methods often result in stagnant ponds with increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) due to fish respiration, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels and an increase in acidity in the water. This can cause a decline in soil fertility, posing risks to the ecosystem and converting fertile land into barren land over time.

 

To address this issue, a novel approach has been developed to replace lime, which is traditionally used to neutralize the acidic water in aquaculture ponds, with natural microorganisms/micro plants algae. Algae have the ability to control pH and other water parameters, preventing the conversion of fertile land into barren land. A controlled environment called a Photobioreactor, which simulates sunlight for photosynthesis, is used to cultivate algae.

 

The water containing CO2 from the fish tank is circulated through the Photobioreactor, where it mixes with algae and is filtered before being released back into the fish tank. The algae consume CO2 and release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, creating a biological closed loop between the fish and algae. In addition, the fish excreta serves as a nutrient source for algal growth, creating a symbiotic relationship between the fish and algae.

 

An IoT (Internet of Things) platform is utilized to continuously monitor and transmit data from various parameters to a central server. This allows for real-time monitoring and management of the aquaculture system, leading to faster growth and higher output. To automate the entire process, an Aqua reformer Robot is being designed, incorporating a Photobioreactor, an aerator, and a water monitoring system. The robot collects water from the pond, combines it with algae, and returns it to the pond, while also providing notifications to the farmer in case of any issues.

 

The use of algae in aquaculture systems offers several advantages, including improved water quality, reduced dependence on lime, and potential biomass utilization as an alternative fuel source. By replacing lime with algae in aquaculture ponds, the system becomes more sustainable and environmentally friendly, mitigating the negative impacts on soil fertility and ecosystem health. The combination of IoT technology and automation through the Aqua reformer Robot further enhances the efficiency and productivity of aquaculture operations.

 

In conclusion, the use of algae in aquaculture systems, supported by IoT technology and automation through the Aqua reformer Robot, presents a promising solution to address the challenges associated with traditional aquaculture methods. By optimizing water quality, reducing the use of lime, and improving overall system efficiency, this innovative approach has the potential to contribute to the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry in India and beyond, while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and ecosystem health.

Presenting Author: Pabba Pavan Kumar HYDERABAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Presenting Author Biography: B.Tech CSE – AI&ML student from HITAM - Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management, Interested in Automobiles, App development, Neural Networks, Programming, and Embedded systems. Passionate about IoT, AI/ML & automation in real-life problems.

Authors:

Pabba Pavan Kumar HYDERABAD INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT
Kowdodi Siva Prasad Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management
Vanamamala Giridhar Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management
Gajalajamgam Yuvaraj Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management