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Automated Biofloc Technology for Fish Farming with GSM based Monitoring
System
Conference Paper · November 2024
DOI: 10.1109/RAAICON64172.2024.10928648
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2024 IEEE 3rd International Conference on Robotics, Automation,
Artificial-Intelligence and Internet-of-Things (RAAICON)
29-30 November, IRAB, BUET, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Automated Biofloc Technology for Fish Farming
with GSM based Monitoring System
Md Mehedi Hassain
Dept. of Electrical & Electronics Engineering
International Islamic University Chittagong
Chittagong, Bangladesh
mdmehedihasan225588@gmail.com
Muhammad Osman Gani
Dept. of Electrical & Electronics Engineering
International Islamic University Chittagong
Chittagong, Bangladesh
osmanmuhammadgani@gmail.com
Abdur Rahman
Dept. of Electrical & Electronics Engineering
International Islamic University Chittagong
Chittagong, Bangladesh
rahmaniiuceee@gmail.com
S. M. Rahbar Abdullah Hasnat
Dept. of Electrical & Electronics Engineering
East Delta University
Chittagong, Bangladesh
rahbar.rahi2112@gmail.com
Abstract—Biofloc technology mitigates aquaculture’s environ-
mental impact by using microbial flocs to convert organic waste
into nutrient rich feed. To enhance water quality management,
our research focuses on a GSM based monitoring system for
real time data collection and analysis. The system integrates
pH, temperature, and ultrasonic sensors with an Arduino Uno
microcontroller, GSM module, servo, and pump motors to
monitor and regulate water quality. The system measures timely
and crucial data on water quality, including parameters such
as temperature, pH levels, and the state of the feeding box.
The pH and temperature sensors provide analog readings,
while the ultrasonic sensor monitors feeding box levels. Food
management is controlled by a servo motor that operates the
feeding box, and a pump motor maintains water quality. The
system uses temperature and pH sensors for rapid hazard
detection, minimizing ammonia and nitrite buildup risks. The
GSM module enables real time data connectivity, allowing users
to track and control system operations remotely. This study
empowers fish farmers and hobbyists with real-time water
quality data, promoting informed decision-making to enhance
aquatic health and productivity. It offers valuable insights to
the broader aquaculture community.
Index Terms—Aquaculture, Biofloc technology, GSM technol-
ogy, Water quality management, Environmental monitoring.
I. INTRODUCTION
The aquaculture industry, essential for satisfying global
seafood demand, faces mounting environmental challenges
due to the negative impacts of traditional methods on
ecosystems and resources [1]. Bangladesh’s diverse fish
farming methods include ponds, lakes, rivers, the Bay of
Bengal, haors, baors, and bells. In 2020–2021, it produced
46.21 lakh metric tons of fish, with aquaculture contributing
57.10%. Fisheries make up 3.57% of the national GDP and
26.50% of the agricultural GDP, supporting over 12% of the
population [2]. Biofloc technology aims to mitigate resource
inefficiencies and encourage the adoption of ecological
aquaculture practices. The use of microbial aggregates in
this technology facilitates the recycling of organic waste,
hence reducing the reliance on external nutrient input and
boosting the circular utilisation of nutrients. Nevertheless,
it is crucial to ensure the stability of microbial flocs in the
face of changing environments in order to maximise their
effectiveness [3]. The need for technological breakthroughs
is driven by the worldwide need for sustainable aquaculture
solutions. This research primarily focuses on the optimi-
sation of biofloc systems via the utilisation of GSM-based
monitoring. It presents a real-time and proactive strategy
for managing water quality.
The need of monitoring water quality in biofloc systems
has been emphasised in recent scholarly works. The au-
thors, Emerenciano et al., draw attention to the difficulties
associated with maintaining ideal circumstances and put
up alternatives based on GSM technology [4]. Ahamed
and colleagues use the IoT technology to provide real-time
monitoring in the context of biofloc aquaculture [5]. In
their study, Tolentino et al. provide a monitoring system for
aquaculture that utilises GSM technology, offering a user-
friendly interface [6]. In their study, Ahammed et al. use the
GSM technology as a means to augment the efficiency of
biofloc systems [7]. The authors McCusker et al. underscore
the significance of real-time monitoring in the optimisation
of biofloc systems [8]. Nagamora and colleagues provide
a proposed IoT platform specifically designed for the use
of biofloc aquaculture [9]. Yu, Young-Bin, et al. measured
the water turbidity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and
salinity [10]. In their study, Manjusha et al. present the
use of the GSM as a means of remotely monitoring water
quality [11]. Valiente et al. use ultrasonic sensors as a
means of facilitating feeding practices within the context of
aquaculture [12]. Deb et al. primarily address the topic of
water quality control inside biofloc systems [13]. Sasikumar,
R., et al. measured the pH and oxygen quality of pond
water in a biofloc system [14]. Podder, Saurov, et al. focus
on temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, water level, and
979-8-3315-3440-0/24/$31.00 ©2024 IEEE
turbidity. Their system uses a heater, air pump, acid-alkaline
solutions, and automated drainage to ensure optimal water
quality and levels [15].
The objective of this study is to develop an extensive
monitoring system using GSM technology for the purpose
of managing water quality in biofloc technology. This re-
search aims to address the existing research gap by pro-
viding real-time monitoring capabilities. The stated goals
include three main aspects: 1) the monitoring of pH and
temperature levels, 2) the regulation of feeding and water
pump operations, and 3) the integration of a real-time
system based on GSM technology.
Most previous research focuses on measuring pH, with
some also addressing temperature and dissolved oxy-
gen.This study introduces an innovative approach to ad-
dress the lack of comprehensive, real time monitoring tools
in the field of biofloc aquaculture. Our research addresses
a research gap by integrating pH and temperature sensors,
an ultrasonic sensor, a servo motor, a pump motor, and a
GSM module. The system tracks water quality by measuring
temperature and pH, while the ultrasonic sensor monitors
feeding box levels. It uses sensors for data collection,
a servo motor for food control, and a pump motor to
maintain water quality. The SIM800L GSM module sends
SMS using HTTPS communication protocols. The use of
this integrated system enables aquaculture practitioners
to effectively manage biofloc conditions and improve fish
health by means of real time data transmission, so making
a valuable contribution to the promotion of sustainable and
efficient aquaculture practices.
II. DESIGN METHODOLOGY
A. Block Diagram & System Overview
The design process of the project is represented via a
sequence of diagrams, with each figure providing clarifi-
cation on a certain component of the system’s operation.
The block diagram shown in Fig. 1 offers a comprehensive
understanding of the project’s structure and constituent
elements.
The system comprises of several sensors, including pH,
temperature, and ultrasonic sensors, together with an Ar-
duino Uno microcontroller, a GSM module, and servo and
pump motors. The SIM800L GSM module sends SMS us-
ing HTTPS communication protocols. The aforementioned
components collaborate to oversee the quality of water
and regulate the operations of the system. The Arduino
Uno serves as the primary control unit, facilitating the
coordination and interaction among various components.
The pH sensor is used to quantify the pH of water, the
temperature sensor is employed to assess the temperature
of water, and the ultrasonic sensor is employed to ascertain
the level of the feeding box. The pH and temperature
sensors are linked to analogue input pins and the ultrasonic
sensor is connected to digital pins of Arduino Uno. The
feeding process is regulated by a servo motor, which is
connected to digital pin of the microcontroller. Additionally,
Fig. 1: Block Diagram
the maintenance of water quality is ensured by a pump
motor, which is connected to digital pin. The use of a GSM
module facilitates the establishment of data connectivity
between the system and its users.
B. Flowchart & System Overflow
The operational sequence of the project is explored in
the flowchart shown in Fig. 2.
Fig. 2: Flowchart
The process starts by initialising the Arduino Uno micro-
controller and establishing the necessary configurations for
sensor connectivity. The flowchart consistently collects data
pertaining to pH and temperature. The ultrasonic sensor
assesses the level of the feeding box provided that the
pH and temperature parameters are within the designated
range. In the event of a low condition, the servo motor
is triggered to initiate the automated feeding process. In
the event of a deviation in pH or temperature, the pump
motor is activated to facilitate the circulation of water. The
GSM module is responsible for overseeing communication
processes, including handling user inquiries and facilitating
data updates. The iterative process of the flowchart begins
with the initialization of the Arduino Uno and the setup of
the sensor. The system collects pH and temperature data
and retains them for further study. The pH and temperature
measurements are compared to predetermined ranges. The
feeding box fill level is determined by the ultrasonic sensor.
When the servo motor is in a low state, it triggers the ini-
tiation of fish feeding. When there are differences in pH or
temperature, the pump motor is activated to facilitate water
exchange. The GSM module is responsible for executing
user requests and providing data responses through SMS.
The error-handling procedures are responsible for the man-
agement of sensor faults and communication mismatches.
C. Circuit Diagram and Pin Connection
Fig. 3: Circuit Diagram
The circuit diagram shown in Fig. 3 provides a visual
representation of the physical interconnections among var-
ious components. The sensors are connected to the cor-
responding pins, namely A0, D2, D3, and D4. The servo
motor is operated by using digital pin D7, whilst the pump
motor is controlled by digital pin D8 by means of a relay
module. The communication between the GSM module
and the Arduino Uno is established via the use of software
serial, namely on pins D5 and D6. The liquid crystal display
(LCD) displays real-time data and is linked through inter-
integrated circuit (I2C) communication. The establishment
of electrical continuity is facilitated by the presence of
power and ground connections.
D. Component Functionality and Control
The pH levels are measured by the pH sensor through
the analogue pin A0, temperature is assessed using the
digital pin D4, and the ultrasonic sensor makes use of
pins D2 and D3. The servo motor is regulated through
pin D7 and is responsible for triggering the process of
fish feeding. The water change process is facilitated by
the pump motor, which is connected to the relay module
and regulated by the use of pin D8. The GSM module
establishes communication via the use of pins D5 and
D6, therefore enabling the transmission and reception of
SMS updates. The liquid crystal display (LCD) employs the
inter-integrated circuit (I2C) communication protocol to
facilitate the real-time displaying of data. Libraries like as
OneWire, DallasTemperature, and SoftwareSerial are used
for the purpose of interfacing with certain components.
III. IMPLEMENTATION AND RE SU LTS
The actual execution of the suggested system included
the configuration of input and output pins of the Arduino
Uno microcontroller to provide smooth integration with
sensors and motors. The incorporation of sensors, such as
the pH sensor and temperature sensor, onto the Arduino
Uno platform enabled precise assessment of pH levels and
water temperature. Furthermore, the use of the ultrasonic
sensor allowed the measurement of the vertical distance
between the water surface and the top border of the feeding
box. This enabled the continuous monitoring of the fill
level of the feeding box in real-time. The Arduino Uno
successfully established a link with the servo motor, so en-
abling the automation of the fish feeding process whenever
a specified threshold was reached. In order to optimise the
management of water quality, a relay module was used to
provide a regulated link between the pump motor and the
Arduino Uno. The need for water changes was identified
based on data collected from pH and temperature sensors.
In order to maintain ideal biofloc conditions, the pump
motor rapidly responded to these findings. The successful
integration of the GSM module with the Arduino Uno
was accomplished by using software serial communication,
which facilitated the seamless transfer of data in real-time.
The system used GSM-based messaging to relay informa-
tion about pH, temperature, and feeding box level to users,
while also allowing users to issue specific inquiries and get
corresponding responses.
A. Implementation of the Project
Fig. 4: Total Overview of the System
Fig. 4 presents a thorough depiction of the cohesive
partnership of several hardware elements, including the Ar-
duino Uno microcontroller, pH sensor, temperature sensor,
ultrasonic sensor, servo motor, pump motor, and GSM mod-
ule. The SIM800L GSM module sends SMS using HTTPS
communication protocols. The automatic functionalities of
the system guarantee the ongoing monitoring of essential
water quality indicators, such as pH and temperature lev-
els. When deviations are detected, the system promptly
performs suitable steps, highlighting its effectiveness and
accuracy.
B. Performance of the System
(a) Feeding box with food
(b) Food level
Fig. 5: Feeding box and food level
The feeding box is seen in Fig. 5a indicating that the
system is actively managing the fish feeding process. The
feeding box, which is an essential component of the fish
feeding automation system, is where the food for the fish
is kept. It is the job of the ultrasonic sensor to determine
the distance that exists between the top of the box and
the food in the feeding box. Fig. 5b shows the measured
fill level of the feeding box using the ultrasonic sensor. It
suggests that the food level is getting lower, indicating that
it’s approaching a threshold where the system will trigger
the automated fish feeding process.
Fig. 6a is displayed when the automated feeding process
begins. The servo motor is activated, and the fish feeding
process is initiated. The servo motor is programmed to
move the feeding box, dispensing fish food to the fish
aquarium. Once the feeding is completed, the display will
show the updated fill level of the feeding box. Fig. 6b
appears on the display when the food level in the feeding
box reaches a critical point, indicating that it is time to
refill the feeding box. The ultrasonic sensor continuously
monitors the fill level, and when it detects a low level, it
triggers this message to prompt the user to refill the feeding
box to ensure a continuous and sufficient food supply for
the fish.
In Fig. 7a, the system is measuring the pH value of base
water. The pH sensor is submerged in the base water to
measure its pH level. The pH sensor provides analog voltage
(a) Automatic Feeding Start
(b) Low food level warning
Fig. 6: Automatic feeding and low level warning
(a) pH level for base water
(b) Base water
Fig. 7: pH measuring and displaying for base water (Soap)
output proportional to the pH level of the water. Fig. 7b
displays the pH values measured by the pH sensor. The pH
sensor provides analog voltage output proportional to the
pH level of the water.
It suggests that the water being tested has a higher
pH value, indicating a more basic or alkaline environment
which might be suitable for certain fish species or aqua-
culture setups that prefer slightly basic conditions. Fig. 8a
displays the pH values measured by the pH sensor. The
pH sensor provides analog voltage output proportional to
the pH level of the water. It indicates that the water has
a lower pH value, signifying an acidic environment, which
might not be suitable for fish health. Acidic water can stress
and harm fish, affecting their immune system and overall
well-being. In Fig. 8b, the system is measuring the pH value
(a) pH level of acidic water
(b) Acidic water
Fig. 8: pH measuring and displaying for acidic water
(Lemon)
of acidic water. The pH sensor is submerged in the acidic
water to measure its pH level. Monitoring the pH level
and taking corrective actions, such as water changes or pH
adjustments, are crucial to maintaining a healthy aquatic
environment.
(a) Temperature
(b) Temperature of water
Fig. 9: Temperature measuring and displaying for the water
Fig. 9a displays the water temperature measured by the
temperature sensor (DS18B20). It represents the tempera-
ture reading in degrees Celsius. Fig. 9b displays the water
temperature of the fish aquarium is being measured by the
temperature sensor (DS18B20). The DS18B20 temperature
sensor provides accurate and reliable temperature readings.
Monitoring water temperature is essential for ensuring
the water conditions are within the desired range for the
specific fish species. Different fish species have specific
temperature requirements for optimal growth and health.
In Fig. 10a represents the output when the user sends
a specific command through SMS to monitor pH and
temperature remotely using GSM. Upon receiving the com-
mand, the system retrieves the current pH and temperature
values from the respective sensors. It then sends an SMS
message back to the user containing the real-time pH and
temperature readings. This feature enables users to stay
informed about water conditions even when they are not
physically present near the aquaculture setup.
(a) Water pH and temperature monitoring
(b) Remote control and monitor
Fig. 10: GSM based monitoring and controlling
Fig. 10b demonstrates the output when the user sends
commands through SMS to control the water pump and
feeding system remotely using GSM. By sending commands
the user can remotely activate the water pump for a water
change or initiate the automated fish feeding process,
respectively. The system processes the received commands
and responds with confirmation messages to indicate that
the requested actions have been taken. This GSM-based
control functionality allows users to manage and maintain
the aquaculture system efficiently from a distance, provid-
ing flexibility and ease of operation.
C. Cost Analysis
TABLE I: Total Cost of the project
No Component Name Quantity Price (BDT)
1 Arduino Uno 1 1300/=
2 Buck Converter 1 100/=
3 pH Sensor 1 2800/=
4 Temperature Sensor 1 200/=
5 Ultrasonic sensor 1 150/=
6 SMPS Power Supply 1 500/=
7 GSM Module 1 500/=
8 Relay Module 1 160/=
9 Servo Motor 1 220/=
10 Water Pump 1 160/=
11 LCD 16×2 display 1 200/=
12 I2C Module 1 100/=
13 PVC Board - 250/=
14 Acrylic sheet - 700/=
15 Wire - 50/=
Total 7,390/=
The cost analysis of the project, as shown in Table I,
provides a comprehensive breakdown of the financial im-
plications linked to the procurement of necessary hardware
components for the purpose of implementation. The exper-
iment demonstrates the viability of using this technology to
improve aquaculture practices, at a total cost of 7,390 BDT/
62.63(USD Dollar).
IV. CONCLUSIONS
The increasing need for sustainable food production
methods has stimulated advancements in aquaculture,
leading to the creation of innovative technologies that
tackle environmental issues while maximising productivity.
This research introduces a significant improvement in the
field of aquaculture by proposing a complete and user-
friendly solution for the control of water quality in real-time
inside biofloc systems. The preservation of water quality
parameters is a significant challenge faced by conventional
aquaculture practices, which poses a potential threat to the
well-being and production of aquatic species. By using an
Arduino Uno microcontroller, pH and temperature sensors,
ultrasonic sensors, servo and pump motors, and a GSM
module, this project presents a groundbreaking approach
to addressing the obstacles in the field of aquaculture. The
practical advantages of this technology, such as improved
fish health, efficient use of resources, and less need for
human intervention, highlight its potential to revolutionise
aquaculture methods while mitigating environmental con-
sequences. The initiative shows strong progress but ac-
knowledges limitations, particularly in areas with poor or
no network access. In considering future prospects, the
research proposes the inclusion of predictive analytics with
IoT and the refinement of feeding algorithms as potential
avenues for augmenting its capabilities. By means of ongo-
ing innovation, this technology has the potential to facilitate
the development of a more resilient and ecologically con-
scientious aquaculture sector, therefore making a significant
contribution to global food security and the preservation of
ecological systems.
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