Robotic Fish

A European research project known as SHOAL has developed a "school" of robotic fish for monitoring pollution in aquatic areas. The goal is to eliminate the need for traditional sampling and analysis methods and obtain real-time information on the levels and possible sources of pollution.

Each fish weighs about 35 kg (77 pounds) and contains a variety of sensors for detecting different pollutants, pressure, temperature, battery status and attitude heading. They utilize artificial intelligence (AI), functioning either independently or as a swarm, to create 3-dimensional maps of polluted areas and calculate where it likely originates. They're even capable of returning to base for recharging.

Other potential applications for robotic fish include underwater security, diver monitoring and search-and-rescue.