Biomimetic robotics used to protect aquatic ecosystems

Biomimetic robotics, which draws inspiration from marine biology, is emerging as a key strategy for protecting aquatic ecosystems. Advanced devices are being used to monitor biodiversity, generate clean energy, and remove plastic waste without disrupting natural environments.

Researchers at ETH Zurich in Switzerland have developed Belle (and its successor, Eve), a soft-bodied robotic fish with a silicone tail. This device uses internal water pumping for silent propulsion, avoiding the noise and turbulence caused by traditional motorized vehicles. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, sonar, and environmental DNA (eDNA) collection systems, it can map local biodiversity by filtering genetic fragments from the water.

Other notable technologies include the Energyfish floating turbine from Germany, designed for hydrokinetic energy generation, and the WasteShark waste collector from the United Kingdom, which targets plastic removal in waterways.