DESCRIPTION

BioMetrics AS of Kristiansund, Norway, has partnered with BioSonics to develop an Aquaculture Biomass Monitor (ABM) to automatically estimate fish size, size distribution and monitor fish behavior, in operational salmon net pens. The purpose of the device is to provide operators with a more accurate estimation of average fish size and size distribution during the growth cycle, in order to maximize productivity and optimize slaughter timing and to detect abnormalities such as escapement or disease.

The ABM is based on proven scientific split beam active acoustic technology, used for decades for open-ocean fish stock assessment. Extensive testing of the technology has been conducted at operational salmon farms and research facilities in Norway since 2011. In 2016, BioMetrics, and a team of partners including BioSonics, were awarded an Innovation Norway grant to facilitate commercialization of the product, targeted for early 2018.