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Low-cost monitoring system for optimizing trout aquaculture in the village of Chichira, Pamplona (Northern Santander)
Trout aquaculture in Colombia is a sector experiencing remarkable growth and productive potential, supported by data from the Colombian Federation of Aquaculturists (2023), which indicates a production of almost 200,000 tons of fish, of which 16% corresponds to trout. However, small producers face critical challenges, mainly related to the quality of the water in their ponds, which directly affects the growth and survival of the fish. To mitigate this problem, a low-cost monitoring system based on the Internet of Things (IoT) was developed. The project, implemented on a trout farm in the village of Chichira de Pamplona, focused on real-time measurement of key parameters such as temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen, all of which are crucial for the well-being of trout (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations [FAO], 2014). The methodology applied included a detailed characterization of low-cost sensors, such as the DS18B20 for temperature, the SEN0161 for pH, and the SEN0237-A for dissolved oxygen. Rigorous calibration processes were performed to ensure the precision and accuracy of the measurements, achieving minimum standard deviations of 0.06°C for temperature and an average value of 3.99 for pH. The system was modeled using an ESP32 microcontroller and a 5V, 2A power supply, demonstrating its technical and economic viability. The collected data was transmitted via a Wi-Fi network and displayed on an intuitive digital platform developed with Blynk IoT. Field results confirmed the effectiveness of the system, revealing significant patterns in the monitored variables. A direct correlation was observed between trout feeding and decreases in pH and dissolved oxygen, validating the need for constant monitoring to make informed decisions. The alternative developed is accessible and competitive compared to higher-priced commercial solutions. This system contributes to the economic and social sustainability of rural producers, as well as positioning trout aquaculture at the forefront of precision agriculture and digital transformation.
