ABSTRACT
In fish hatcheries large quantities of larvae and fish are counted on a regular basis. The counting is done during certain stages of development, most often when they are being transferred from one basin to another or before the fish leave the hatchery. Counting of eggs, larvae, and fish via computer is not a new or an untried problem. In addition, we wanted a system that was programmably universal for aquaculture installations, easy to use, dependable, and, if possible, affordable. Initially a portable personal computer-based system, with a minimum configuration of memory, graphics, and disk space might be useful during the early stages of testing and development or for use at multiple installations. The lighting system used with the most success was an "underlighting" system for visualizing photos and slides. Several cameras were tested in conjunction with the various objectives and lighting systems.
