AI and microbiology unite to predict potato growth
A group of Dutch researchers developed an AI tool to predict potato growth, paving the way for a more resilient and effective way of farming.
Published on January 10, 2025
AI-generated image
In a study published in Nature Microbiology, researchers from Utrecht University and the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) have developed an AI tool capable of predicting the growth potential of seed potatoes by analyzing microbial DNA data and drone images. Led by biologist Roeland Berendsen, the study highlights the significant role of microbes, such as beneficial Streptomyces species, in influencing potato growth.
The research underscores the potential to improve agricultural practices by identifying and harnessing specific bacteria that enhance plant vitality, ultimately reducing waste and reliance on chemical pesticides. The insights gained from this study could pave the way for similar advancements in other crops, offering a sustainable path to meeting the increasing global food demand.
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Data integration for potato growth
Potatoes, which grow as stem tubers underground, can produce up to twenty tubers per plant. Traditional planting methods involve placing seed potatoes at approximately 12 centimeters depth, with their growth success influenced by multiple factors including variety, weather conditions, soil composition, and storage history. While agronomists have previously developed complex models for potato growth, these often fell short because, as research shows, 'there are no ideal potatoes'
The research combines advanced AI analysis with extensive field data collected from 240 test fields and thousands of seed potato samples. This comprehensive approach has enabled researchers to identify specific bacterial communities that significantly influence potato growth. The study reveals that certain Streptomyces species can notably enhance growth, while other microorganisms may inhibit plant development. According to biologist Yang Song: "By combining these data points using AI, we could pinpoint the microbes that are the best predictors of potato growth."
Future implications
This breakthrough marks "the beginning of a new era in farming, where microbiology and AI come together to enhance agriculture," as stated by Roeland Berendsen. The research not only enables the prediction of seed potato quality based on microbial composition but also opens possibilities for developing similar approaches for other crops. The potential benefits extend beyond improved crop health to include reduced waste and decreased dependence on chemical pesticides, offering a sustainable solution for meeting growing global food demands.
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