CSIRO new innovation imaging technology to identify fruit fly in cherries

 

CSIRO Develops Advanced Imaging Technology to Combat Fruit Fly in Cherries

Lead Researcher: Maryam Yazdani
Organisation: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)
Technology: AI-Powered Optical Scanning
Focus: Detection of Fruit Fly Infestation in Cherries


Introduction

Australian researchers have made significant strides in the fight against fruit fly infestations in horticultural produce, particularly cherries. The CSIRO, under the guidance of entomologist Maryam Yazdani, has pioneered a new AI-powered optical scanning technology. This development promises to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of pest detection, potentially opening up new export opportunities for Australian fruits.

Background and Current Practices

Fruit fly infestations pose a major threat to the horticultural industry, impacting both domestic and international market access. Traditionally, Australia has relied on end-point treatments such as fumigation and manual inspections to manage these risks. While effective, these methods are costly and sometimes face regulatory bans in various countries.

Current Methods:

  • Fumigation: Effective but expensive and increasingly restricted internationally.
  • Manual Inspections: Labor-intensive and subject to human error.

The New Technology

The new imaging system developed by CSIRO leverages advanced AI to detect fruit fly infestations during the grading process in packhouses. This method integrates seamlessly with existing optical grading systems used for quality control.

Key Features:

  • High-Resolution Imaging: Captures detailed images of the fruit.
  • AI Detection: Utilizes a database of over 40,000 images to identify signs of infestation.
  • Efficiency: Can detect even recently laid eggs, allowing for timely removal of infested fruit.

Maryam Yazdani emphasizes that the accuracy of the AI model hinges on high-quality data. The current detection model boasts about 95% accuracy in identifying fruit fly damage in cherries.

Development and Testing

The CSIRO team has primarily focused on the Queensland fruit fly, a significant barrier to market access for Australian cherries. However, the technology has also been tested on other fruits and fruit fly species, including:

  • Blueberries
  • Apples
  • Nectarines
  • Mediterranean fruit fly

The results have been promising, and there are plans to expand the technology to cover a broader range of fruits and pests.

Potential Impact

The integration of AI-powered optical scanning in packhouses could revolutionize pest management in horticulture. Some potential benefits include:

  • Cost Reduction: By providing an alternative to fumigation, it can reduce expenses associated with traditional treatments.
  • Market Access: Enhanced pest detection can reassure trading partners, potentially opening up previously inaccessible markets.
  • Sustainability: Reducing reliance on chemical treatments aligns with global trends towards sustainable agriculture.

Yazdani points out that this emerging technology may serve as an additional tool for border security regulators, enhancing the overall biosecurity framework of the country.

Future Prospects

CSIRO is collaborating with a commercial partner to test and refine the integration of this technology into existing packhouse operations. If successful, the next steps would involve scaling up and adapting the system for various types of fruits and different fruit fly species.

Conclusion: The innovative work by CSIRO, spearheaded by Maryam Yazdani, represents a significant advancement in horticultural pest management. By harnessing the power of AI and optical scanning, this technology promises to safeguard the quality of Australian fruits, support market expansion, and contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices.

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