By Samuel Ifeanyi Ogbuagu, Nwangwu Desmond Chinedu and Obadara Emmanuel Ogundeji
Publisher : Peer Reviewed Journal
International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies (IJFAS) ; 14 (5): 133-142 (2026)
Abstract:
This review synthesises recent advances in the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in tilapia aquaculture, with emphasis on their implications for sustainable fish farming in Nigeria. Using a PRISMA-guided systematic review approach, nine studies published between 2020 and 2025 were analysed, covering smart pond management, edge-based machine learning, computer vision-assisted feeding, aquaponics automation, and AI-driven optimisation systems. The findings demonstrate that AI- and IoT-based technologies significantly improve aquaculture performance through real-time monitoring of dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, feeding behaviour, and biomass estimation using tools such as YOLOv8, Random Forest, Multiple Linear Regression, XGBoost, and genetic algorithms. Across the reviewed studies, survival rates increased by up to 12.5%, biomass production improved by 15-28%, and feed conversion efficiency improved by 8-30%, resulting in enhanced profitability and reduced operational waste. Solar-powered and edge-deployable systems were particularly effective in low-resource environments, making them suitable for smallholder tilapia farming in Nigeria, where unreliable electricity supply, poor water-quality management, and high feed costs remain major constraints. However, gaps persist regarding long-term field validation in African aquaculture systems, integration of disease prediction models, and affordability for rural farmers. The review recommends pilot-scale deployment of low-cost AIoT systems in Nigerian earthen ponds, strengthened farmer training, policy support, and future integration of blockchain-based traceability systems. Overall, AI- and IoT-driven smart aquaculture offers strong potential to improve productivity, sustainability, and food security in Nigeria’s tilapia sector.
