Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to management of aquaculture and particularly to a non-invasive system for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments.
Description of Related Art
[002] Aquaculture plays a vital role in global food security and economic development, with freshwater and brackish water fish farming contributing significantly to this industry. However, fish populations in aquaculture are increasingly vulnerable to infectious diseases, which can lead to high mortality rates, economic losses, and environmental disruption. Among these, Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) is a major concern, affecting various fish species and often leading to widespread outbreaks. Traditional disease management strategies rely on reactive approaches, such as visual diagnosis and laboratory testing, which can be time-consuming and ineffective in preventing disease spread. Consequently, there is a growing demand for early detection methods that enable proactive disease management in aquaculture.
[003] One of the key factors influencing fish health is physiological stress, that compromises immune function and increases susceptibility to infections. Stress in aquaculture environments is triggered by factors such as fluctuations in water quality, overcrowding, and handling. Cortisol, a well-established biomarker of stress, is commonly measured to assess fish health. However, existing cortisol detection methods primarily involve blood sampling and laboratory assays, which are invasive and impractical for continuous monitoring. The need for a non-invasive, real-time approach to assess stress levels in fish populations has been widely recognized, as it would enable aquaculture managers to take timely corrective actions before disease outbreaks occur.
[004] Existing solutions for fish disease detection include visual inspections, histopathological examinations, and molecular assays such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR). While these techniques provide accurate diagnoses, they are limited by their delayed detection capabilities and the requirement for specialized laboratory facilities. Furthermore, emerging biosensor technologies designed for human health monitoring, such as wearable sweat-based cortisol sensors, have not been effectively adapted for aquatic applications. Therefore, there remains a critical gap in the development of real-time, non-invasive fish health monitoring systems that can detect physiological stress and predict disease risk before symptoms become apparent.
[005] There is thus a need for an improved and advanced non-invasive system for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments that can administer the aforementioned limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a non-invasive system for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments. The system comprising electrodes adapted to generate an electrochemical signal in response to cortisol presence in water. The system further comprising an electrochemical adapter interfaced with the electrodes to amplify and transmit the generated electrochemical signal. The system further comprising a microcontroller configured to receive, process, and convert the amplified signal into cortisol concentration data; identify trends by monitoring the cortisol concentration data for a set duration of time; identify stress patterns, Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, or a combination thereof from the detected cortisol concentration data; and generate alerts when the cortisol concentration data exceed a threshold value of the cortisol present in the water.
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a method for non-invasive, real-time detection of cortisol levels in freshwater fish populations to monitor stress and predict Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk. The method comprising steps of deploying electrodes in live water to continuously detect cortisol presence; amplifying and processing electrochemical signals from the electrodes using an electrochemical adapter; converting the amplified signal into cortisol concentration data; identifying trends by monitoring the cortisol concentration data for a set duration of time; identifying stress patterns, the Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, or a combination thereof from the detected cortisol concentration data; and generating alerts when the cortisol concentration data exceed a threshold value of the cortisol present in the water.
[008] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a non-invasive system for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments.
[009] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for detecting cortisol levels that detects cortisol levels directly in the water, eliminating the need for handling fish and reducing additional stress that could skew results.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for detecting cortisol levels that enables real-time monitoring of fish stress levels, allowing aquaculture managers to track changes immediately rather than relying on delayed laboratory-based diagnostic methods.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for detecting cortisol levels that allows for proactive intervention before visible disease symptoms appear, helping to prevent widespread outbreaks of Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS).
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for detecting cortisol levels that makes use of enzyme-based electrochemical sensors that are affordable compared to traditional diagnostic methods.
[0013] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for detecting cortisol levels that can be integrated with wireless data transmission, allowing aquaculture managers to access real-time data remotely. Historical data logging also enables trend analysis for improved long-term fish health management.
[0014] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0015] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a non-invasive system for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary implementation of the non-invasive system for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0019] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method for non-invasive, real-time detection of cortisol levels in freshwater fish populations to monitor stress and predict Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising", "comprises”, and the like (which are synonymous with "including", "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of", “consists essentially of", and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of", "consists of”, the like.
[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0024] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a non-invasive system 100 (hereinafter referred to as the system 100) for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may be adapted to detect the cortisol levels in the live water environments. The live water environments may be, but not limited to, a pond, a lake, a river, a fish habitat, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the live water environments, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. The system 100 may further be adapted to generate alerts upon deviation in the cortisol levels.
[0025] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the system 100 may incorporate non-limiting hardware components to enhance the processing speed and efficiency such as the system 100 may comprise electrodes 102, an electrochemical adapter 104, a microcontroller 106, a wireless communication module 108, an external monitoring system 110, a low-energy consumption power source 112, and a communication unit 114. In an embodiment of the present invention, the hardware components of the system 100 may be integrated with computer-executable instructions for overcoming the challenges and the limitations of the existing systems.
[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 may be installed across the live water environments. The electrodes 102 may be adapted to generate an electrochemical signal in response to cortisol presence in water. The electrodes 102 may be cortisol-specific enzyme electrodes 102 configured to selectively bind cortisol molecules and produce an electrochemical reaction. In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 may be deployed in a floating arrangement using buoyant support structures to ensure stability and optimal placement in different depths of water. In another embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 may be integrated with adaptive positioning mechanisms to dynamically adjust their depth and orientation based on water currents, temperature gradients, and aquatic movement patterns. The adaptive positioning may enhance cortisol detection accuracy by ensuring consistent exposure to water samples from various layers of the habitat. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 may be deployed in a modular grid configuration to allow scalable implementation across large aquatic enclosures or open water systems. The modular arrangement of the electrodes 102 may facilitate seamless maintenance, replacement, and real-time calibration without disrupting the natural behavior of aquatic species.
[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrochemical adapter 104 may be interfaced with the electrodes 102 to amplify and transmit the generated electrochemical signal. The electrochemical adapter 104 may be configured to calibrate periodically to ensure accurate cortisol detection in varying water conditions. The electrochemical adapter 104 may be configured to calibrate periodically to ensure accurate cortisol detection in varying water conditions.
[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 and/or the electrochemical adapter 104 may be coated with bio-compatible anti-fouling materials to prevent biofilm formation and extend operational longevity in diverse water environments. This protective layer may ensure sustained electrode sensitivity and minimize signal degradation caused by organic accumulation over time.
[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 and the electrochemical adapter 104 may be enclosed in a single housing to provide a compact, integrated design that enhances durability and simplifies deployment. The unified housing may offer protection against external contaminants, physical disturbances, and varying water conditions. In another embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 and the electrochemical adapter 104 may be enclosed in separate housings to enable modular placement and flexible installation in different aquatic environments.
[0030] In an embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller 106 may be connected to the electrochemical adapter 104. The microcontroller 106 may be adapted to receive, process, and convert the amplified signal into cortisol concentration data. The microcontroller 106 may be adapted to identify trends by monitoring the cortisol concentration data for a set duration of time. The microcontroller 106 may be adapted to identify stress patterns, Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, and so forth from the detected cortisol concentration data. The microcontroller 106 may be adapted to generate the alerts when the cortisol concentration data exceed a threshold value of the cortisol present in the water. In an embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller 106 may further be programmed to store the cortisol concentration data over time in a database 116 for historical trend analysis and predictive modelling of fish stress levels.
[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the wireless communication module 108 may be adapted to transmit the cortisol concentration data to the external monitoring system 110. The external monitoring system 110 may enable aquaculture managers to monitor the stress patterns, the Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, and so forth. The external monitoring system 110 may enable aquaculture managers to monitor the historical trend analysis and the predictive modelling of fish stress levels. The wireless communication module 108 may be, but not limited to, a Bluetooth unit, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) unit, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the wireless communication module 108, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. The external monitoring system 110 may be, but not limited to, an Artificially driven engine, a display unit, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the external monitoring system 110, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention, the low-energy consumption power source 112 may be adapted to supply operation power to the microcontroller 106. The low-energy consumption power source 112 may be, but not limited to, a rechargeable battery, a solar-powered unit, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the low-energy consumption power source 112, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 114 may be configured to transmit the generated alerts to the aquaculture managers. The communication unit 114 may be, but not limited to, a twisted pair cable, a co-axial cable, an Ethernet cable, a modem, a router, a switch, Wi-Fi communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, a millimetre waves communication module, an Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) communication module, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the communication unit 114, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the database 116 may be configured to store cortisol concentration data, environmental parameters, and behavioral patterns of aquatic species for historical trend analysis and predictive modeling of fish stress levels. The database 116 may also record real-time and historical data to enable the microcontroller 106 to identify correlations between cortisol fluctuations and external factors such as temperature variations, water quality changes, and feeding schedules.
[0035] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary implementation of the non-invasive system 100 for detecting the cortisol levels in the live water environments, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electrodes 102 may be strategically placed in freshwater dolphin habitats, such as designated conservation pools or rehabilitation enclosures, to monitor stress levels effectively. The electrodes 102 may be installed near feeding areas, swimming routes, and resting zones to ensure comprehensive cortisol detection. The electrodes 102 may be adapted to selectively bind cortisol molecules and generate an electrochemical signal in response to their presence, allowing real-time monitoring of stress variations in dolphins. The electrodes 102 may be deployed in the floating arrangement using buoyant support structures to ensure stability and optimal placement in different depths of water.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrochemical adapter 104 may be configured to amplify and transmit the electrochemical signals from the electrodes 102. The electrochemical adapter 104 may be periodically calibrated to maintain accuracy in varying water conditions, including changes in temperature, salinity, and pH. The electrochemical adapter 104 may be further adapted to optimize signal processing and reduce interference for precise cortisol concentration measurement. The floating arrangement of the electrodes 102 may allow for flexible positioning, making it adaptable for various aquatic environments, including controlled research enclosures and large open-water habitats.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 114 may be adapted to transmit cortisol concentration data to aquaculture managers via the external monitoring system 110. The wireless communication module 108 may enable real-time data transmission through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any other wireless technology. The external monitoring system 110 may allow aquaculture managers to monitor stress patterns in dolphins, assess long-term trends, and implement necessary interventions to enhance their well-being. Similarly, other varieties of fishes and aquatic animals, such as carp, catfish, and amphibians, may also be monitored using the system 100 for effective stress management, disease prevention, and overall habitat optimization.
[0038] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method 200 for non-invasive, real-time detection of the cortisol levels in the freshwater fish populations to monitor the stress and predict the Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] At step 202, the electrodes 102 may be deployed in the live water environments to continuously detect the cortisol presence.
[0040] At step 204, the electrochemical signals from the electrodes 102 may be amplified and processed using the electrochemical adapter 104.
[0041] At step 206, the system 100 may convert the amplified signal into cortisol concentration data.
[0042] At step 208, the system 100 may identify trends by monitoring the cortisol concentration data for the set duration of time.
[0043] At step 210, the system 100 may identify the stress patterns, the Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, and so forth from the detected cortisol concentration data.
[0044] At step 212, the system 100 may compare the cortisol concentration data with the threshold value of the cortisol present in the water. Upon comparison, if the cortisol concentration data exceed the threshold value, then the method 200 may proceed to a step 214. Else, the method 200 may revert to the step 204.
[0045] At step 214, the system 100 may generate the alerts.
[0046] At step 214, the system 100 may transmit the generated alerts to the aquaculture managers using the communication unit 114.
[0047] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0048] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A non-invasive system (100) for detecting cortisol levels in live water environments, comprising:
electrodes (102) adapted to generate an electrochemical signal in response to cortisol presence in water;
an electrochemical adapter (104) interfaced with the electrodes (102) to amplify and transmit the generated electrochemical signal; and
a microcontroller (106) configured to:
receive, process, and convert the amplified signal into cortisol concentration data;
identify trends by monitoring the cortisol concentration data for a set duration of time;
identify stress patterns, Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, or a combination thereof from the detected cortisol concentration data; and
generate alerts when the cortisol concentration data exceed a threshold value of the cortisol present in the water.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrodes (102) are cortisol-specific enzyme electrodes configured to selectively bind cortisol molecules and produce an electrochemical reaction.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrodes (102) are configured to selectively bind cortisol molecules and produce an electrochemical reaction.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a wireless communication module (108) to transmit the cortisol concentration data to an external monitoring system (110).
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a low-energy consumption power source (112) selected from a rechargeable battery, a solar-powered unit of a combination thereof, for prolonged deployment in aquaculture environments.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (106) is programmed to store the cortisol concentration data over time in a database (116) for historical trend analysis and predictive modelling of fish stress levels.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a communication unit (114) configured to transmit the generated alerts to aquaculture managers.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrochemical adapter (104) is configured to calibrate periodically to ensure accurate cortisol detection in varying water conditions.
9. A method for non-invasive, real-time detection of cortisol levels in freshwater fish populations to monitor stress and predict Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, the method comprising:
deploying electrodes (102) in live water to continuously detect cortisol presence;
amplifying and processing electrochemical signals from the electrodes (102) using an electrochemical adapter (104);
converting the amplified signal into cortisol concentration data;
identifying trends by monitoring the cortisol concentration data for a set duration of time;
identifying stress patterns, the Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (EUS) risk, or a combination thereof from the detected cortisol concentration data; and
generating alerts when the cortisol concentration data exceed a threshold value of the cortisol present in the water.
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising a step of transmitting the generated alerts to aquaculture managers using a communication unit (114).
Date: March 7, 2025
Place: Noida

Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant