In the depths of the ocean, where sunlight barely reaches, a revolutionary device is illuminating new possibilities for the fishing industry and energy sector. Researchers from the Department of Fisheries Marine Utilization at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, IPB University, have developed an Underwater Fish Attractor Light (UFAL) that promises to transform gillnet fishing, enhancing catch rates while optimizing energy consumption.
The UFAL, designed by lead author Atmajaya Onesimus Dhyas Dwi and his team, is more than just a simple light. It’s a sophisticated, remotely controlled system equipped with chip-on-board LED technology, ensuring durability and energy efficiency in the harsh aquatic environment. The device emits light to attract fish, significantly increasing the chances of a successful catch, especially during nighttime operations.
In a series of tests, the UFAL demonstrated a staggering 189% increase in total fish catch weight compared to traditional methods. “The results were beyond our expectations,” Dhyas Dwi shared. “We saw a total catch weight of 281.54 kg with the UFAL, compared to just 149.12 kg without it. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the fishing industry.”
The UFAL’s impact extends beyond just increased catch rates. Its energy efficiency is a game-changer for the energy sector. The device maintained a light intensity of 133 lux at 90° and 270° initially, which decreased to 60 lux after 60 minutes, but this was more than sufficient to attract fish. Moreover, the battery efficiency allowed for extended operation, with a voltage drop to 9.28 V at full brightness after 120 minutes. This longevity is crucial for commercial fishing operations, reducing the need for frequent battery changes and minimizing downtime.
The UFAL’s design also addressed the issue of water leakage, a common problem in underwater devices. The most effective leakage treatment achieved 0% leakage, ensuring the device’s durability and reliability in the long run.
The implications of this research are vast. For the fishing industry, the UFAL offers a sustainable and efficient way to increase catch rates, potentially boosting profits and reducing the environmental impact of fishing. For the energy sector, the UFAL’s energy-efficient design could pave the way for similar technologies in other underwater applications, from offshore wind farms to underwater data centers.
The study, published in the BIO Web of Conferences, translates to the Life Sciences Web of Conferences, is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research. By combining marine biology, fisheries science, and energy technology, Dhyas Dwi and his team have created a device that could change the future of fishing and energy use underwater.
As we look to the future, the UFAL serves as a beacon of innovation, illuminating the path towards more sustainable and efficient practices in the fishing industry and beyond. The energy sector, in particular, stands to gain from this technology, as it continues to explore new frontiers in underwater operations. The UFAL is not just a light; it’s a symbol of progress, a testament to human ingenuity, and a promise of a brighter, more sustainable future.