A Comprehensive Review of Quality of Aquaculture Services in Integrated Multi-Trophic Systems

Abstract

The concept of Quality of Aquaculture Services (QoAS) is inspired by the Quality of Service (QoS) principle, originally developed in the field of networks and telecommunications, where it refers to the ability to guarantee the quality, availability, and priority of service in a communications system. Adapted to the aquaculture context, QoAS is fundamental to maximising the benefits of Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). IMTA has emerged as a sustainable approach to meet the growing global demand for aquatic food products by combining species from different trophic levels in a single system, optimising resource use, improving environmental performance, and diversifying production. However, ensuring QoAS in these complex systems requires the implementation of advanced technologies to monitor, manage, and optimise every aspect of the aquaculture process. This article presents a comprehensive review of technologies applied at IMTA, focusing on IoT-based monitoring systems, resource management algorithms, water recirculation technologies, intelligent automation, biosecurity, and data management platforms. Our review finds that IoT and automation-based solutions significantly enhance real-time monitoring, increasing operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Key challenges identified include integration complexity, high costs, and technical expertise requirements, but the ongoing development of modular, user-friendly solutions indicates a promising trajectory. This review highlights the transformative role of technological innovation in IMTA, providing a foundation for future research and advancements in QoAS management in aquaculture.

1. Introduction

Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) is a sustainable aquaculture approach that integrates species from different trophic levels, where by-products from one species serve as nutrients for another. This method optimises resource use and reduces the environmental impact associated with conventional aquaculture practices. IMTA aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting a circular economy and lowering the carbon footprint of aquaculture systems [1,2].

IMTA systems have gained attention not only for their ecological benefits but also for their economic potential. By incorporating extractive species, such as algae and molluscs, IMTA improves water quality while creating additional market opportunities [3]. Moreover, during periods of global disruption, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, IMTA systems demonstrated resilience due to their ability to diversify production and support local economies [4,5].

Despite its advantages, the widespread adoption of IMTA faces challenges, including nutrient retention efficiency, system scalability, and the integration of advanced technologies. Addressing these challenges requires leveraging modern solutions, such as cloud platforms, IoT sensors, and automation systems, which can enhance the Quality of Aquaculture Services (QoAS) and ensure the sector’s sustainability [6,7].

This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current state of IMTA systems, focusing on the integration of advanced technologies and their potential to transform aquaculture into a more sustainable and efficient industry. By addressing key environmental and operational challenges, this work offers a valuable reference for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in advancing sustainable aquaculture practices.

2. Materials and Methods

The study was based on the PRISMA methodology [8], with the aim of ensuring a rigorous and systematic approach. This method allowed for a comprehensive search of scientific databases, selection of relevant studies, and critical assessment of their quality. The selection process was followed, and key data on technologies applied in IMTA, such as IoT systems and resource management algorithms, were extracted. The synthesis of the results highlights how these technologies improve the QoAS, providing a solid basis for future research.

Search and identification process:

The search was conducted in Google Scholar, Springer, and Elsevier, using terms such as Emergent Technology, IMTA, Aquaculture, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Underwater Drones, water quality, aquatic infrastructure, Biotechnology, Recycling Cycle, and Recirculating Aquaculture Systems. Combinations of terms were generated with Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT).

Inclusion and exclusion criteria:

Inclusion criteria: Peer-reviewed publications, in English, between 2000 and 2024, discussing technologies applied to IMTA.

Exclusion criteria: Studies outside the thematic scope, duplicate publications, or with insufficient methodological quality.

Selection and evaluation of studies:

The initial search identified 1200 records, of which 200 were eliminated for duplicates. Subsequently, 400 studies were assessed for relevance and quality, with 46 retained for the final analysis (see Figure 1).

Analysis and synthesis:

Data extracted from the selected studies were categorised by technology and their impact on IMTA’s QoAS. A qualitative approach was used to synthesise the findings and discuss their applicability in the field.

The methods used in this study include both new and well-established procedures. New methods are described in detail below, while established methods are briefly mentioned with citations. In addition, new methods were proposed, including the QoAS concept, developed specifically for this study. Inspired by the Quality of Service (QoS) principle of networks and telecommunications, QoAS focuses on ensuring the quality, availability, and priority of services in aquaculture systems. QoAS is crucial for maximising the benefits of IMTA, a sustainable approach that combines species from different trophic levels to optimise resource use, improve environmental performance, and diversify production. This new approach allows for more efficient and sustainable resource management within IMTA systems, improving both production and the resilience of the aquatic ecosystem.

Ethical considerations:

This study did not involve the participation of animals or humans, and, therefore, ethical approval was not required.

Availability of materials and information:

There were no restrictions on the availability of materials, data, or methods used in this study. All information, including protocols and data, will be available upon request.

During the preparation of this manuscript, an AI-assisted tool (ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI) was used to perform grammar checks and provide stylistic suggestions. The tool was not involved in the generation of original scientific content, analysis, or conclusions. Its role was limited to enhancing the clarity and readability of the text.

3. Quality of Aquaculture Services in IMTA

QoAS refers to the implementation of technologies and approaches that ensure efficient and consistent performance in the systems that manage aquaculture production. The concept of QoAS in this context ensures that services and the processes involved in aquaculture, such as water monitoring, fish feeding, and data management, are performed in an optimised and reliable manner, improving production and reducing associated risks. There are different types of IMTA systems [7]:

• Land-based IMTA, applied in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments, aligns with sustainable development goals through a holistic aquaculture approach. These systems, typically employing recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs), integrate fish cultivation with extractive species. The primary challenge lies in maintaining water quality within the recirculating systems.
• Freshwater (lakes and ponds) IMTA. IMTA systems in lakes operate in a natural environment, which makes it difficult to control nutrients and wastes, as these can be dispersed and affect the balance of the surrounding ecosystem. In addition, it is essential to monitor water quality to keep it within safe parameters for all species involved.
• Marine or coastal IMTA systems face unique challenges in waste management and nutrient monitoring due to environmental dynamics and scale. These systems must adapt to constant changes, such as temperature and water composition fluctuations, which impact system health and operational sustainability. Typically, coastal IMTA integrates finfish, shellfish, and macroalgae, where finfish waste provides nutrients for shellfish and algae, enhancing productivity and reducing environmental impacts.
• Key areas where QoAS is applied in IMTA (Figure 2):
• IoAT. Real-time monitoring systems are essential to ensure the health and sustainability of aquaculture farms. The use of IoAT sensors and data analysis platforms to monitor key variables such as pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and salinity allows aquaculture operators to detect changes early. However, detection alone is insufficient without the presence of technical devices, called engineering actors. These devices, such as heaters, coolers, pH regulators, and salinity adjustment systems, allow operators to respond effectively by automating corrective actions. Together, IoAT sensors and technical devices form an integrated system that reduces the risk of mass mortality, improves fish health, and ensures optimal conditions for aquatic organisms, playing a vital role in the future of sustainable aquaculture.
• Optimisation of resource use (water, food, energy). The efficiency in the use of resources is paramount in aquaculture, particularly in the context of reducing operational costs and enhancing sustainability. A high-quality aquaculture system must ensure efficient resource allocation while minimising disruptions to the ecosystem and production processes. One of the most promising advancements in this area is the implementation of intelligent systems that automatically adjust feed distribution based on real-time data regarding fish behaviour. This approach not only improves feed conversion ratios but also mitigates waste, thereby contributing to a more sustainable aquaculture practice. Intelligent feeding systems leverage technologies such as sensors, cameras, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to monitor fish behaviour and environmental conditions continuously. By analysing data in real-time, these systems can determine the optimal amount of feed to distribute, ensuring that fish receive the necessary nutrients without overfeeding. Overfeeding not only leads to increased costs but also contributes to water pollution and the degradation of the aquatic environment due to uneaten feed decomposing and releasing harmful substances into the water.
• Automation and control systems. Control and automation systems in aquaculture must be reliable, scalable, and exhibit low latency to effectively manage large volumes of data and facilitate quick decision-making. By automating the management of environmental conditions and feed supply through networks of connected sensors, aquaculture operations can achieve efficient production and enhance sustainability. The continued development and implementation of these systems will be essential for the future of aquaculture.
• Communications and connectivity in Smart Aquaculture Farms. Ensuring reliable connectivity between IoT devices and control systems is essential for the effective monitoring and management of aquaculture environments. The use of low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs) and 5G technology provides robust solutions for connecting devices in remote locations, ensuring efficient and continuous data transmission. As aquaculture continues to evolve, the integration of these advanced networking technologies will be crucial for enhancing the sustainability and productivity of the sector.
• Data storage and processing. The efficient processing and storage of large amounts of data from water quality and fish behaviour sensors are critical for successful aquaculture management. Cloud-based platforms offer a robust solution for storing and analysing massive datasets, providing real-time insights that facilitate informed decision-making on feeding, oxygenation, and other production aspects. As aquaculture continues to evolve, the integration of cloud technology will be essential for enhancing productivity and sustainability.
• QoAS policy. The enhancement of aquaculture service quality within IMTA can be achieved through robust policy frameworks that define clear regulatory standards for water treatment, species health, and environmental sustainability. It is also crucial to implement training and education programs for aquaculture professionals, ensuring they possess the skills needed to deliver high-quality IMTA services. Continuous monitoring and evaluation policies should be introduced to assess the environmental and operational impacts of IMTA systems, thereby refining service quality standards over time to meet sustainability objectives. By adopting these comprehensive policy considerations, aquaculture services within IMTA systems can become increasingly sustainable, efficient, and environmentally responsible.

The application of QoS concepts in computer networks is essential for modern aquaculture. Through optimisation of data transmission and efficient management of network resources, it is possible to improve the sustainability and productivity of aquaculture systems, ensuring a suitable environment for the growth of aquatic organisms. The QoAS in IMTA is a topic of growing interest in research and practice due to its potential to improve sustainability and efficiency in aquaculture production.

4. A Comprehensive Review of QoAS in IMTA

IMTA systems offer a promising solution to improve the QoAS. By integrating species from different trophic levels, IMTA not only optimises production and reduces environmental impact but also increases the resilience of aquaculture systems to external challenges. Continued research in this field is essential to maximise the benefits of IMTA and promote sustainable aquaculture practices. The QoAS in IMTA systems is fundamental to promote sustainable and efficient practices. Species integration, proper waste management, and farmer training are key aspects that can improve water quality and ultimately the sustainability of aquaculture.

By incorporating QoAS (emerging technologies) into IMTA, see Figure 3, the system becomes more efficient, automated, and sustainable, allowing the integration of advanced monitoring, data analysis, and automation tools.

Figure 3 shows the following:

• The Higher Level (Primary Aquaculture: Fish and Crustaceans) contains the following:

  (a)

  IoAT systems can monitor vital parameters such as water quality, temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and ammonia levels. This real-time monitoring enables early detection of potential problems and helps maintain optimal conditions for fish production. However, detecting issues is only the first step; implementing corrective actions requires the integration of technical devices, or actuators, which allow operators or automated systems to respond effectively. For instance, maintaining temperature may require heaters or coolers, while pH adjustments depend on acid/base regulators, and salinity control necessitates systems for managing salt solutions and freshwater inputs. The combination of IoAT sensors and these actuators ensures efficient, automated management of environmental conditions.

  Table 1. Types of IMTA systems, specific associated problems, and solutions using IoT and QoAS technologies.

  Type of IMTA	Specific Problems	IoAT/QoAS Solutions
  Terrestrial/Land-based IMTA	Managing water quality, ensuring nutrient balance, and maintaining recirculation efficiency to prevent waste accumulation.	IoAT: Real-time sensors for monitoring water quality and nutrient levels. QoAS: Automated systems for optimising recirculation and reducing waste.
  Lake and pond IMTA	Managing nutrients and waste dispersion in natural ecosystems to prevent ecological imbalance.	IoAT: Real-time environmental sensors for continuous water quality monitoring. QoAS: Dynamic adjustments to maintain stable and safe water parameters.
  Marine or coastal IMTA	Managing waste and monitoring nutrients in dynamic environments, requiring adaptation to environmental changes like temperature and water composition.	IoAT: Underwater sensors and aquatic drones for real-time tracking of water conditions and nutrient levels. QoAS: Adaptive systems to adjust parameters dynamically and ensure system sustainability.

  summarises the main types of IMTA systems and the specific challenges faced in different environments (terrestrial/land, lake, and marine/coastal). Additionally, it outlines the solutions that IoAT and QoAS technologies provide to address these challenges, offering a more efficient and sustainable approach to managing each type of IMTA system. In open systems, it is challenging to directly alter environmental parameters such as temperature, pH, or salinity due to their exposure to natural dynamics. However, indirect strategies, such as adjusting the density of fed organisms or modifying feeding practices, can help maintain a balanced system. These approaches allow for partial control over nutrient input and waste production, which are critical for sustaining aquaculture operations in open environments.

  (b)

  Blockchain for traceability. The adoption of blockchain technology ensures the traceability of aquaculture products, from their production to the final consumer, thereby guaranteeing transparency and the certification of the sustainability of the entire process. This approach allows for the verification of each stage in the product’s life cycle, promoting responsible practices within aquaculture and building trust among consumers.

• Intermediate Level (Filter feeders: Mussels, Clams) contains the following:

  (a)

  Artificial Intelligence (AI) for filtering optimisation. The application of AI and machine learning (ML) in the optimisation of aquaculture systems extends beyond filtration and water quality. In trophic level 1, AI can be applied to determine the optimal density of fed organisms and improve feeding practices. By analysing environmental and biological data, AI enables precise adjustments that enhance resource efficiency and minimise waste, providing an alternative to traditional economic-based decisions. For trophic level 2, AI supports filtration system optimisation through advanced data analysis and process automation, reducing human error and improving overall system performance. These technologies play a vital role in ensuring sustainable and efficient aquaculture operations [9].

  (b)

  Underwater drones. Underwater drones are being recognised as cutting-edge instruments for assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems, particularly in aquaculture. These unmanned vehicles can perform comprehensive inspections of aquatic infrastructure and identify potential risks, such as diseases or parasites, that may impact farmed species. Their capacity to function in challenging environments, combined with advanced sensors, renders them indispensable allies in the pursuit of sustainable aquaculture management [10,11].

• Lower Tier (Primary Producers: Algae, Aquatic Plants, and Vegetables) contains the following:

  (a)

  Biotechnology, Gene Editing (CRISPR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Genetically modified algae (GM algae) represent a significant advancement in biotechnology and aquaculture, offering potential solutions to both environmental and economic challenges by enhancing growth and performance. These algae can be specifically engineered to improve nutrient absorption, accelerate growth under controlled conditions, and produce valuable compounds, such as biofuels and pharmaceutical components. However, while CRISPR technology has shown promise in modifying single organisms, its application in complex, interlinked biological systems remains largely theoretical. Future research must carefully assess the feasibility, ethical implications, and environmental risks of such approaches to ensure responsible and sustainable innovation. In addition to biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a pivotal role in optimising the growth of algae and plants, particularly in response to dynamic weather conditions. AI systems can analyse environmental data, predict changes, and automate adjustments to growth conditions, such as light, temperature, and nutrient availability. This integration of AI not only complements human decision-making but also improves the reliability and efficiency of aquaculture systems, ensuring resilience against environmental variability.

  (b)

  Terrestrial vegetables in RAS integration: Combining RASs with the cultivation of terrestrial vegetables, such as basil, tomato, and lettuce, represents a practical and sustainable approach to removing dissolved inorganic nutrients. These plants not only contribute to nutrient recycling but also offer an additional economic benefit by diversifying production outputs. Their integration into aquaculture systems complements the role of algae and aquatic plants, providing a multi-faceted solution for nutrient management.

  (c)

  Machine learning for growth prediction. By utilising machine learning, historical and environmental data can be examined to enhance the growth conditions of algae, allowing for predictions regarding when algae will attain their ideal harvest size to optimise productivity.

• Recycling Cycle of Waste Recovery contains the following:

  (a)

  Bioreactors for carbon and waste capture: Bioreactors for carbon and waste capture in aquaculture are innovative technologies designed to address environmental challenges. These systems convert organic waste into useful products, such as biofuels or fertilisers, and capture CO₂, thereby contributing to the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

  (b)

  Automated waste handling systems and insect larvae: Automated systems for managing aquaculture waste play a crucial role in improving sustainability and operational efficiency. In closed systems, such as RASs, settling tanks are commonly used to collect and dewater organic waste, enabling easier recycling and disposal. Additionally, innovative approaches, such as the use of insect larvae (e.g., black soldier fly larvae), can transform organic waste into valuable by-products like protein-rich feed or compost.

  In open systems, waste management presents unique challenges due to the dispersion of sediments. Emerging solutions include robotic technologies capable of cleaning and collecting sediment from the environment, ensuring that waste is managed effectively without harming surrounding ecosystems. These advancements are essential for establishing more efficient and sustainable nutrient recycling cycles in diverse aquaculture systems.

Table 2. Technologies for aquaculture.

Technology	Summary	Actors/Actions
Recirculating Aquaculture Systems	Treats and recycles water using biofiltration, mechanical filtration, UV disinfection, and degassing. Maximises water reuse and reduces environmental impact [12,13,14,15,16].	Operators monitor and adjust systems to maintain water quality.
Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)	Integrates species from different trophic levels for nutrient reuse and waste reduction. Includes technologies like filter organisms and Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) [17,18,19,20,21].	Managers select species; technicians monitor ecosystem health and filtration systems.
IoAT Sensors	Monitors parameters (temperature, oxygen, pH) in real-time, enabling automated responses and optimised conditions [22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30].	Technicians respond to alarms; automated systems adjust settings based on sensor data.
Automated Feeding Systems	Feed dosage adjusts in real-time based on behaviour, reducing waste and improving efficiency [31,32].	Sensors detect patterns; technicians troubleshoot feeding systems in real-time.
Advanced Sensors and Biosensors	Detect pathogens, toxins, and nitrogenous compounds in water, enabling early intervention and organism health [33,34,35,36].	Labs analyse samples; automated systems alert staff to apply preventive treatments.
Digital Twins and Simulation	Simulate real-time aquaculture systems, optimising operation and reducing errors [37,38,39].	Analysts configure systems; operators adjust parameters based on simulations.
Blockchain for Traceability	Ensures transparency and trust in supply chains by recording product provenance [40].	Quality control staff perform audits; operators record and verify product origins.
Polyculture and Sustainability in IMTA	Integrates low trophic level species to balance ecosystems and reduce pathogens [41,42,43].	Managers select species; technicians monitor ecosystem health and species balance.
Cloud-Based Platforms	Facilitate real-time data storage and analysis for decision-making (e.g., AWS IoT, Google Cloud Platform, Climate FieldView) [44].	Technicians upload and monitor data; operators adjust systems remotely.
Connectivity and 5G Networks	Improves IoT connectivity in remote areas, enabling real-time monitoring and management [45,46,47,48].	Technicians ensure network stability; IoAT sensors relay real-time data.
Automated Analysis and Big Data	Machine learning predicts events (disease outbreaks, water changes), improving efficiency and decision-making [49,50,51,52,53,54,55,56,57].	Data analysts interpret AI alerts; technicians implement operational adjustments.
Environmental Monitoring and Control	Real-time platforms monitor parameters (oxygen, temperature, pH) and adjust conditions automatically [22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30].	Technicians respond to alarms; automated systems make adjustments based on sensor data.
Durable Aquaculture Infrastructure	Advanced materials (e.g., recycled plastics, biopolymers) reduce costs and improve resilience in harsh environments [47].	Engineers select materials; staff inspect and maintain structures.
QoAS Training and Costs	High costs and training requirements challenge QoAS adoption in rural areas [22].	Trainers train technicians; project managers manage budgets.
Policies and Funding	Government incentives and funding support small-scale adoption of advanced technologies [22].	Policymakers design subsidies; financial institutions provide loans to aquaculture producers.

provides a clear overview of key technologies that facilitate management and operations in aquaculture environments, along with their main functions and operational benefits. The table provides an overview of how these technologies are transforming aquaculture systems, promoting more sustainable and efficient management.

The implementation of technologies for water quality and systems in aquaculture faces a series of challenges and opportunities that are fundamental for the sustainable development of this industry. Among the most significant challenges is the complexity of aquatic ecosystems, where factors such as temperature, salinity, and nutrient concentration must be monitored and regulated precisely. This requires advanced sensor technologies and automation systems, which can be costly and difficult to integrate into existing operations.

Moreover, training personnel in the use of these technologies presents another challenge. Often, workers lack the necessary training to interpret data or manage automated systems, which can lead to erroneous decisions that affect the health of aquatic organisms and overall productivity. However, the opportunities arising from the implementation of QoAS technologies are equally significant. Automation and the use of real-time monitoring systems allow for more efficient resource management, optimising water use and reducing waste. These technologies also facilitate early detection of environmental issues, such as harmful algal blooms or changes in water quality, enabling corrective measures to be taken before they escalate into crises.

Additionally, the digitisation of processes can improve traceability and transparency in the supply chain, which are increasingly valued by consumers who demand sustainable aquatic products. In a competitive global market, the implementation of QoAS can be a key differentiator, helping companies comply with stricter environmental regulations and enhancing their reputation.

Economic constraints and limited access to advanced technologies in certain areas and sectors of aquaculture pose significant challenges to the sustainable development of this industry. In many regions, especially in developing countries, the infrastructure necessary to implement water quality monitoring and management systems is inadequate. This includes both a lack of high-tech equipment, such as sensors and automated systems, and insufficient qualified personnel to operate and maintain them.

The high cost of these technologies can be prohibitive for small producers and fishing communities, who often operate with very tight profit margins. These expenses encompass not only the purchase and installation of equipment but also ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and staff training. Often, small producers lack access to adequate financing or government subsidies that would allow them to invest in the technologies needed to improve the quality and sustainability of their production.

Moreover, the inequality in access to technology is exacerbated by the lack of communication infrastructure in many rural areas. Without internet connectivity or limited access to technological services, tools that could enhance aquaculture management cannot be effectively implemented. This creates a gap between those who can leverage technological innovations and those who fall behind, perpetuating inequalities in production and profitability.

Despite these limitations, there is considerable potential to improve access to advanced technologies through government policies that promote investment in infrastructure, training, and financing for small producers. Collaboration between the private sector, research institutions, and local communities can also facilitate the transfer of technology and knowledge, helping to bridge the gap in access to effective technological solutions.

The adoption of technologies in aquaculture allows them to be adjusted and scaled according to the specific characteristics of the environment and the needs of each production system. It is essential to consider factors such as the species being farmed, environmental conditions, available resources, and existing regulations to implement these solutions effectively [22]. Below are examples of how various technologies can be customised and scaled in different aquaculture scenarios.

Firstly, automated environmental monitoring is fundamental to maintaining optimal conditions in aquaculture systems. The use of sensors that measure essential parameters such as water quality (oxygen, temperature, pH, and turbidity) helps producers respond quickly to environmental changes and automatically adjust conditions for the well-being of the organisms [22]. These sensors can be installed in both land-based systems and marine cages, and they can be part of early warning systems that prevent damage before environmental changes negatively affect the farms [13].

On the other hand, feeding is one of the highest costs in aquaculture, and automatic feeding technologies have been a key solution to improve efficiency in this area. These systems allow for feeding the aquatic organisms based on their behaviour, adjusting the amount of feed in real-time, and reducing waste [37]. This technology can be adapted for both smaller facilities and large commercial operations, making it a scalable solution for different types of farms [22].

Moreover, the use of AI and big data analysis is transforming decision-making in aquaculture. These tools allow for anticipating critical events, such as the outbreak of diseases, by analysing patterns in fish behaviour and environmental conditions [13]. Thanks to their flexibility, these technologies can be applied in farms of any size, facilitating their use in all types of aquaculture operations [22].

The RAS is another technology that has enhanced sustainability in this field. These systems enable the recycling and reuse of water within the farming system, reducing water consumption and minimising environmental impact. This is particularly valuable in regions where access to freshwater is limited [31]. RASs can be implemented in a wide range of facilities, from small farms to large industrial complexes [22].

Finally, blockchain technology is becoming increasingly important in aquaculture, particularly regarding product traceability. Today’s consumers value transparency in the origin of their food, and blockchain offers a secure and transparent solution to track every stage of the production process. This not only reinforces consumer confidence in aquaculture products but also improves internal management efficiency and supply chain operations [22].

The technologies used in aquaculture allow for flexible adaptation and scalability according to the needs of each environment. The key to their success lies in adjusting these technologies to local conditions and complying with specific regulations. Advances in areas such as automation, real-time monitoring, and Artificial Intelligence are opening up new opportunities for making aquaculture more efficient and sustainable [22].

5. Conclusions

The incorporation of advanced technologies in IMTA systems plays a vital role in enhancing the QoAS by enabling the early detection of pathogens, optimising resource use, and reducing environmental impact. These innovations not only benefit the health of aquatic organisms but also ensure the sustainability and profitability of aquaculture. Continued research and implementation of these technologies are essential to maximise their potential and contribute to a more sustainable future in the aquaculture sector.

The implementation of advanced technologies in aquaculture, particularly within IMTA systems, is crucial for maintaining the sustainability and operational efficiency of the industry. These technologies enhance water quality and the health of cultivated organisms while also aiding in food safety and reducing risks.

The following are several future proposals that could be explored to improve the quality of services in aquaculture by implementing Internet of Aquaculture Things (

Table 3. Future proposals for improving the QoAS.

Proposal	Description
Smart sensors	Development of sensors for real-time monitoring of critical parameters (water quality, temperature, dissolved oxygen) connected to IoT platforms.
Management systems with machine learning	Use of algorithms to analyse real-time and historical data, predict disease outbreaks, and optimise feeding strategies.
Drone and remote sensing technologies	Use of drones to monitor crop health and water quality, allowing for periodic assessments and early detection of issues.
E-learning platforms	Training producers in IoAT technologies and IMTA management through online courses on sustainable practices.
Collaborative networks	Creation of networks between researchers, producers, and technology companies to share knowledge and resources.
Mobile applications	Development of apps for managing IMTA systems remotely, integrating sensor data and recommendations into intuitive interfaces.
Integration with renewable energy	Use of solar panels to reduce operational costs and minimise environmental impact.

).

The implementation of advanced technologies in IMTA can significantly improve the efficiency, sustainability, and Quality of Aquaculture Services. Below (

Table 4. Emerging technologies to optimise IMTA systems.

Technology	Potential Impact
Solar panels	Renewable and sustainable energy source to reduce operational costs and carbon footprint.
Water recycling technologies	Treatment and reuse of water, especially relevant in water-scarce regions.
Energy storage	Use of lithium-ion batteries or grid storage to manage energy from renewable sources.
Satellite monitoring	Collection of data on temperature, water quality, and crop health from space.
Cloud-based analytics platforms	Real-time data collection and analysis to enhance decision-making in IMTA systems.
Underwater inspection robots	Monitoring of aquaculture infrastructure (e.g., culture nets) to detect damage or debris accumulation.
Artificial Intelligence	Optimisation of decision-making through advanced data analysis.
Nanotechnology	Research into disease treatments using nanoparticles to reduce antibiotic resistance and improve crop health.

) are several additional technologies that could be explored to optimise IMTA systems.

The adoption of these technologies in IMTA can greatly enhance the quality of services and the sustainability of the sector. Research and development in these areas will not only improve operational efficiency but also help tackle global challenges related to food security and the conservation of aquatic resources.