NHBS is working with the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) to develop an innovative approach to amphibian monitoring using NEWTCAM, an underwater camera device. In collaboration, we have continued to improve and test the NEWTCAM to assess its value for biodiversity monitoring, and here we provide an update of the latest stages in this exciting project.
NEWTCAM Overview
The NEWTCAM is an open underwater tunnel with an integrated camera and lighting system used to automatically capture high resolution images and video of aquatic animals. Designed for use in Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) surveys, the NEWTCAM works by taking an image of the underside of a newt, which allows for the determination of sex, development stage and individual identification due to the unique spot patterns on each animal. It can be left unattended in the water for several days minimising animal handling, greatly improving survey effort, detection rates, and reducing stress on the animals. The images can then be analysed using our improved AI-based processing methods to produce estimates of population size.
The project has two main aims, to improve the functionality, durability and versatility of the NEWTCAM and to assess its value as a user-friendly freshwater wildlife monitoring method. These aims will be accomplished through a programme of technological development work at LISTs laboratories and the NHBS workshop followed by a series of field experiments conducted by LIST and early user field trials. These experiments will assess whether the NEWTCAM approach is reliable and robust for amphibian monitoring and surveying, the NEWTCAM’s ability to detect multiple species and life stages in various habitats, and whether the data produced is sufficient in producing population estimates.
2024 Update
Since the first field trials, we have continued to make adjustments to further improve the design and outer housing before moving forward with a second round.
Twenty-four NEWTCAM units were sent for field trials during the summer, with recipients based across Europe, Asia, Central and South America. These field trial have the following objectives:
- To trial the latest version of the NEWTCAM in a variety of environments
- Receive feedback on the NEWTCAM design
- Improve knowledge on the scope of species that can be observed
During this time, two NEWTCAM devices were deployed in a pond in Luxembourg from March to September, and have successfully produced a time series of larval, juvenile and adult Great Crested Newts. A trial based in Kent, UK has also observed adult Great Crested Newts later in the season.
Additionally, our early users have successfully captured first observations of the Marbled Newt (Triturus marmoratus) and Hong Kong Warty Newt (Paramesotriton hongkongensis) with NEWTCAM, and we have observed natural foraging behaviours in Great Crested Newts without human interference.
These initial trials have also highlighted the potential for NEWTCAM to be deployed in observation of other aquatic species, including amphibians – early trial users have reported observations on a range of other taxa including water beetles and fish.
What’s Next?
We will continue to gather user feedback from the ongoing field trials with the first batch of NEWTCAM units, which will be used to further develop the device. Additional field trials will be carried out in the spring of 2025, with the final product planned to enter production by the end of the year.
