The health of aquatic ecosystems is increasingly threatened by human-made barriers such as dams and culverts. These structures can obstruct the natural migration routes of fish, leading to declines in fish populations and negatively impacting local ecosystems. Fish passage systems are essential for allowing fish and other aquatic species to move freely through waterways, ensuring access to critical habitats necessary for their life cycles.
Fish passage systems are vital for maintaining healthy aquatic environments. They provide pathways for fish to migrate to spawning grounds, find sustaining habitat, and escape predators. Without these systems, fish populations can dwindle, leading to economic and ecological consequences for local communities. Millions of fish, including salmon, eels, and sturgeon, migrate thousands of miles each year. As climate change and habitat loss continue to challenge these migrations, effective fish passage solutions become even more crucial.
Whooshh Innovations specializes in developing advanced fish passage solutions that prioritize both efficiency and sustainability. The FishlRecognition™ system, a component of the PassagePortal™, is a groundbreaking technology that uses high-definition cameras and AI algorithms to identify, measure, and sort fish in real time. This system not only facilitates effective fish passage but also provides valuable data for fisheries research and conservation efforts.
| Feature | Description |
| Real-Time Identification | Accurately identifies species and measures size instantly |
| Automated Sorting | Works with the GateKeeper™ to direct fish without manual handling. |
| Comprehensive Data Logging | Records all relevant data for each fish, including images, species and size. |
| Cloud-Based Access | Enables remote access to data for stakeholders in near real-time. |
A notable application of Whooshh Innovations’ technology occurred at the Bonneville Adult Fish Facility (AFF). The FishlRecognition™ system was deployed at the terminal end of a bypass flume to monitor migrating fish population including sockeye salmon.. Between May 31 and August 1, 2019, the system successfully imaged 1,262 sockeye salmon as they passed through.
The data collected revealed two distinct subpopulations based on fork length: those measuring less than or equal to 42 cm averaged 36 cm in length, while those greater than 42 cm averaged 51 cm. This information provided valuable insights into population dynamics and health indicators for conservation efforts.
Effective fish passage solutions are essential for maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems and supporting sustainable fisheries management. The Whooshh Innovations advanced technologies offer accurate identification, efficient sorting, and reliable data collection capabilities that enhance our understanding of migrating fish populations.
As we face increasing challenges related to habitat loss and climate change, investing in innovative fish passage systems will be crucial for sustaining healthy aquatic life. By embracing these advancements, stakeholders can ensure that they contribute positively to both their operations and environmental conservation efforts, paving the way for a sustainable future in fisheries management.
