is helping the system learn to recognize patterns that would otherwise go unnoticed. Along the way, students are gaining experience in machine learning, computer vision, data analytics and scientific research. They are also seeing how research moves from an idea and a problem to a potential product with commercial applications. research,” Chancellor Anthony Graham said. “At UAPB, undergraduates have an opportunity to participate before earning their first degree, and the experience can broaden what they imagine for themselves. A student who arrives interested in agriculture or fisheries may discover an interest in data science. Another who sees a future in technology may begin to understand how those skills can be applied to agriculture, food production, or scientific research.” “Those are experiences often associated with graduate-level
transforming images, animal behavior and biological data into information that supports better aquaculture decisions. The Center is applying AI to predict feeding behavior in largemouth bass fingerlings. By analyzing fish behavior before, during and after feeding, computer vision and machine learning can identify patterns associated with feeding activity. That information could eventually support more responsive feeding strategies, improve feed efficiency, reduce waste, and lower production costs. Ramena and his team are also adapting the technology for farm-raised catfish, baitfish and ornamental fish, as well as largemouth bass. Several of these species are important to Arkansas’ aquaculture industry and recreational fisheries. Together, these applications show how AI can address challenges ranging from early disease detection to feeding and production management. They also demonstrate how university research can connect students, scientists, producers and Extension professionals around real-world problems. Students
gain experience at the intersection of aquaculture, artificial intelligence, data science and animal health, while researchers and industry partners work to translate scientific knowledge into practical tools. The opportunity is significant. The global shrimp market exceeds $76 billion annually, and the United States remains the world's largest shrimp importer. A technology that helps producers reduce disease-related losses could improve profitability while contributing to a more resilient seafood supply chain.
That kind of discovery is part of the value of bringing disciplines together.
STARTING THE PIPELINE EARLIER UAPB is also introducing younger students to those possibilities and making STEM careers feel much more tangible. High school students from the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts have contributed to Aquavision's dataset development, giving them early exposure to artificial intelligence, engineering, and agricultural science.
GIVING STUDENTS A SEAT AT THE TABLE
The technology is impressive, but one of the most important parts of the Aquavision story is the role UAPB students have in developing it. In addition to graduate researchers, undergraduates, including students studying computer science, are working across both the research and technology sides of Aquavision, collecting, labeling and validating thousands of images and writing the code used to train its artificial intelligence models. Their work
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