Robotic Fish: Biomimetic Underwater Vehicles for Aquaculture Management and Environmental Monitoring

By : J. Nowshmi John , P. Ruby

Page No: 92-106

Abstract
Robotic fish are biomimetic underwater vehicles designed to replicate the swimming behaviour of fishes. Over the past decade, advances in soft robotics, sensing technologies, and autonomous control have expanded their potential applications in aquaculture and environmental monitoring. Compared with conventional underwater vehicles, robotic fish can operate with reduced noise and hydrodynamic disturbance, making them suitable for use in sensitive aquatic environments.

This review examines recent developments in robotic fish design, including body-and-caudal-fin and median-and-paired-fin propulsion systems, actuation technologies, structural materials, sensor integration, and autonomous control strategies. Particular attention is given to applications in water quality monitoring, environmental mapping, pollution assessment, aquaculture inspection, and fish behaviour assessment. Studies investigating interactions between robotic fish and live fish are also reviewed to evaluate their implications for animal welfare and behavioural management.

The review further discusses key operational challenges, including limited battery endurance, biofouling, navigation in complex environments, and deployment costs. Emerging solutions and future research priorities are highlighted, with emphasis on improving long-term autonomy, sensing capability, ecological compatibility, and field reliability. Overall, robotic fish are evolving from experimental biomimetic platforms into increasingly practical tools for supporting sustainable aquaculture, fisheries management, and aquatic ecosystem monitoring.

Authors
J. Nowshmi John : Department of Fisheries Biology and Resources Management, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, 
P. Ruby : Department of Aquaculture, Trichy Centre for Sustainable Aquaculture, Jeeyapuram, Tamil Nadu, 
 

DOI: http://doi.org/10.32381/JAT.2026.41.1-4.8