The chapter offers an extensive examination of the basic concepts and varied uses of biosensors in the fields of farming and aquaculture. Beginning with an overview of biosensor technology, the chapter delves into the underlying principles that govern biosensor design and functionality. It explores the integration of biorecognition elements and transducers, highlighting the synergy between biology and electronics. The main focus of the chapter is on the pivotal role biosensors play in revolutionizing agricultural and aquacultural practices. Specific applications discussed include real-time monitoring of soil health, crop diseases, and water quality. The chapter emphasizes the significance of biosensors in precision agriculture, enabling targeted interventions and resource optimization. Additionally, it explores the use of biosensors in aquaculture for monitoring the health and environmental conditions of aquatic ecosystems.
Top1. Introduction
As traditional methods encounter challenges in meeting the increasing demands for food production, sustainability, and environmental responsibility, the emergence of biosensors and bioelectronics offers innovative solutions to address these complex issues. Biosensors, sophisticated devices that combine biological recognition elements with transducer technologies, play a pivotal role in monitoring and analyzing biological processes. In the context of agriculture and aquaculture, these cutting-edge technologies open avenues for precise and real-time detection of various parameters, ranging from soil health and crop conditions to water quality and the well-being of aquatic species.
This chapter provides an invaluable resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers who want to comprehend and utilize the possibilities of biosensors & bioelectronics in agriculture and aquaculture. It achieves this through a combination of theoretical insights, application examples, and case studies. It underscores the pivotal role these technologies play in promoting sustainability, ensuring food security, and advancing the overall resilience of agricultural and aquaculture systems in the face of evolving global challenges (Khang & Agriculture et al., 2023).
1.1 Definition of Biosensors
Biosensors are analytical instruments that combine biological elements with a transducer to identify and transform a biological reaction into a quantifiable signal (Torsi et al., 2013). These devices are designed to provide selective and sensitive detection of specific biological or chemical substances by leveraging the recognition capabilities of biological elements. A biosensor generally consists of three main elements: a bioreceptor, a transducer, & a signal-processing system.
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A bioreceptor refers to the unique biological component that interacts with the desired analyte. The choice of detection method depends on the characteristics of the substance that needs to be identified, which can include an enzyme, the antibody, nucleotide, or entire cells.
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The transducer is responsible for converting the biological response resulting from the interaction with the bioreceptor & the target analyte to a signal that can be measured. These technologies, including electrochemical, optical, and piezoelectric transducers, can be used to do this.
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The signal processing unit analyzes the signal produced by the transducer & produces a measurable result that matches the concentration or existence of the desired substance. The resulting data can be exhibited, documented, or additionally examined for diagnostic / monitoring intentions.
1.2 Overview of Biosensor Technology
Biosensor technology represents a revolutionary approach to analytical and diagnostic processes, combining the principles of biology and sensor technology to create powerful tools for the detection and measurement of biological and chemical substances. At its core, biosensor technology is designed to harness the specific and selective interactions between biological components and target analytics, providing rapid, sensitive, and often real-time analysis (Wang, 2008). The technology has diverse applications across fields such as healthcare, environmental monitoring, food safety, and agriculture.