Theme 1 - Recognition Optimization – Low-Cost Tools

Development and integration of innovative monitoring approaches combining acoustic, imaging and molecular technologies to improve biodiversity assessment and ecosystem management.

Hydroacoustic Monitoring

• ARIS camera and low-cost tool deployment
• Open-access analysis tools (FishTracker) for broader operational use
• Semi-automated size-spectrum analysis for fish phenology and fisheries management
• Acoustic monitoring of macrophytes and gas emissions
• eDNA–hydroacoustic comparison for non-invasive fish monitoring
• Integration of acoustic data into population models and indicators

Automated Image Recognition

• ZooScan-based automated zooplankton identification workflows
• Routine monitoring of zooplankton communities in large lakes
• Low-cost flow imaging for small plankton (<150 µm)
• Machine learning for automated image classification

Molecular Biodiversity Monitoring

• Standardization of microalgae (diatoms, phytoplankton) metabarcoding approaches
• Reference databases development (Diat.barcode: >7,000 downloads)
• Contribution to 3 European projects (Horizon, Biodiversa) and 4 national projects
• Target species detection and quantification using dPCR (invasive species, quagga mussel, catfish)
• Fish reproductive phenology characterization through molecular approaches
• Complementary eDNA matrices: biofilms for local signals vs. water for integrated ecosystem signals
• Research supported by 2 PhD projects and validation on a restored Lake Geneva site