Underwater AI bot aims to detect illegal fishing
The device is being developed by scientists in Southampton
Scientists in Southampton have started work on a new underwater artificial intelligence bot which can detect activities that harm the ocean environment.
Codenamed MARLIN, the system uses underwater sensors to remotely monitor animal, human and environmental activity anywhere in the ocean.
It will then be able to transmit data back in real time, helping to spot illegal fishing and protect animals during offshore wind farm construction.
More than £700,000 has been awarded by the AI system for the technology, which is being developed by the University of Southampton with ocean science experts RS Aqua.
Professor of Statistical Signal Processing Paul White, from the University of Southampton, said:
"Using the power of artificial intelligence to monitor sound in the underwater world, combined with the ability to rapidly relay information ashore, will enable us to provide tools to protect fragile marine ecosystems and detect a range of illegal activities."
Large vessels are typically used for ocean monitoring missions – but the new MARLIN system could reduce the time ships are at sea, potentially cutting CO2 emissions by up to 75 per cent.
Dr Ryan Mowat, Research Director at RS Aqua, added:
“This technology will revolutionise how we scientifically monitor our ocean environment. Currently we leave instruments underwater for months at a time and recover them before accessing their data.
“MARLIN will get that data to the internet in real time, and its implications are huge. It will help ensure that offshore construction is sensitive to marine mammal activity and will enable the monitoring of marine protected areas through the real time recognition of illegal fishing activity.”