A research team led by Professor Fu Xinhua from Huazhong Agricultural University has developed a groundbreaking AI-powered monitoring system to track aquatic firefly populations. Using highly sensitive cameras and AI tracking technology, the team has documented over 10 different aquatic firefly populations in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River.

Since 2016, the population of these sensitive aquatic fireflies has increased more than tenfold, indicating a significant improvement in the Yangtze River's water quality. Fireflies are a globally recognized bioindicator, and the aquatic species is particularly demanding, with its larvae only able to survive in Category I water. Their fluctuating populations serve as a clear, visual indicator of changes in the aquatic environment.

Professor Fu's team has been studying aquatic fireflies since 2000, discovering seven rare species and naming five unique to China.

To improve monitoring accuracy, Fu collaborated with Professor Wang Xutong's team to create the world's first AI-based firefly population monitoring method. The system uses high-sensitivity cameras to capture firefly light flashes, which are then transmitted to a server. The AI learns from the flash dynamics, tracks the insects, and compiles data, creating an intelligent monitoring system.

This new method not only increases the accuracy of population monitoring but also drastically reduces the workload for researchers. It provides a solid foundation for future research on firefly conservation and water environment restoration.

Fu's team has also established Hubei province's first firefly conservation base in Wubohao village, Taihe town, Ezhou city. By restoring the local aquatic environment and reducing light pollution, they have helped a population of eight firefly species grow to over 1 million individuals, making the village a thriving example of environmental restoration.