China has begun sea trials of what researchers describe as the world’s first smart squid-fishing robot.

The intelligent squid fishing robot is designed to replicate the precise hand movements used by human fishers to lure squid from deep waters toward the surface.

By mimicking these subtle motions, the machine aims to improve both catch efficiency and consistency in challenging offshore conditions.

The robot is currently undergoing sea trials aboard the Song Hang scientific research vessel. The ship is scheduled to carry out an extended survey mission in the northwestern Pacific Ocean through September, giving researchers an opportunity to evaluate the robot’s performance in real-world marine environments.

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