An analysis of the movement trajectories of the endangered acipenser gueldenstaedtii in ammonia-supplemented environments using image processing methods
Citation
Balci, B. A., Tonguç, G., Arslan, M. N., Kurtoğlu, İ. Z., & Sari, T. (2025). An Analysis of the Movement Trajectories of the Endangered Acipenser gueldenstaedtii in Ammonia-Supplemented Environments Using Image Processing Methods. Animals, 15(7), 900. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15070900Abstract
In this study, the effect of ammonia on the Acipenser gueldenstaedtii was investigated using non-invasive methods. Different concentrations (100, 200, and 400 mg·lt−1) of ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) were added to the experimental groups to simulate ammonia in aquaculture systems, and the movements of the fish were monitored, recorded, and analyzed using image processing techniques and statistical methods. For image processing operations, the optical flow Farneback object-tracking algorithm and necessary image development algorithms were implemented using Python 3.9.13 Programming language codes in the Visual Studio Code software 1.98.2 development environment. At low concentrations, it was observed that the fish made circular movements, while at high concentrations, their movements were restricted and concentrated in areas close to the water’s surface. It was observed that with the increase in ammonia concentration, the movement distances of the fish decreased, and their movements became irregular. This shows that the Acipenser gueldenstaedtii is sensitive to ammonia concentrations and that these concentrations affect the behavior of the fish. These findings are significant for aquaculture conditions and water quality management of the endangered Acipenser gueldenstaedtii, which is protected from the threat of extinction. © 2025 by the authors.
Sturgeons are known as an endangered species worldwide. The cultivation and monitoring of this species require large-scale operations and special conditions that need precise tracking. Traditional monitoring methods are time-consuming and costly and sometimes have limitations in terms of accuracy. Computerized image processing methods can automatically analyze and record the movement patterns, feeding habits, and social interactions of the endangered Acipenser gueldenstaedtii. This helps breeders better understand the health and well-being of this fish and refine their aquaculture processes. This study determined the behavioral changes exhibited when exposed to ammonia and analyzed these changes based on computer image processing techniques.
