AI + sonar for modern aquaculture

How to get full visibility in and around the pen — in real time

Waive combines high-resolution sonar, advanced signal processing, and machine learning to measure biomass, behavior, and structure — regardless of light and visibility.

Sonar vs. camera

Camera and sonar are complementary technologies — but they answer different questions. Here's when each technology is best suited.

FactorCameraSonar
Coverage volume~3–6 m³~40,000 m³
Works in darknessNoYes
Works in turbid waterNoYes
Submersible pensLimitedIdeal
360° coverageNoYes
Depth-independentNoYes
Individual fishYesNo
Lice monitoringYesNo

Sonar provides comprehensive and stable insight across the entire pen — especially in submersible pens, offshore, and other challenging environments. Camera is useful for individual fish and lice monitoring in controlled conditions. Many facilities combine both technologies.

Volume estimates are typical figures and vary with setup.

Why sonar works where camera falls short

Coverage and scale

From a few cubic meters to the entire pen. Sonar measures the volume, not just a sample.

Condition-independent

Works in darkness, low visibility, and in challenging weather and sea conditions.

System understanding

Sees fish, structure, and surroundings simultaneously — provides context for better decisions.

Sonar + AI = insight over time

Measures

  • Biomass and distribution
  • Swimming behavior and activity
  • Structure and changes in the pen

Interprets

  • Patterns and anomalies
  • Trends over time
  • Correlation with environmental data

Alerts

  • Unwanted behavior / stress
  • Changes in structure / net
  • Unusual distribution or activity

Edge AI — response where the data is generated

By processing sonar data locally, we can provide fast response, stable operation, and less dependency on bandwidth.

  • Faster alarms and lower latency
  • Robustness during unstable connection
  • More efficient data processing and cost control

What this means in practice

Operational value

  • 24/7 visibility across the entire pen
  • Better decision support for feeding
  • Early warning and lower risk

Economic impact

  • Less loss and fewer unwanted incidents
  • More predictable operations
  • Better documentation and reporting

See what you can measure at your facility

We'll set up a short demo based on your environment and your needs.

Contact us