Researchers from Utrecht University and TU Delft have created an AI tool to predict the growth of seed potatoes. This tool analyzes microbial DNA and drone images to understand which microbes help potatoes grow best. The study, led by biologist Roeland Berendsen, highlights how certain bacteria, like Streptomyces, can boost potato growth, while others may slow it down.
Potatoes grow underground as stem tubers, producing up to 20 tubers per plant. Their growth depends on factors like soil, weather, and seed storage. The researchers gathered data from 240 test fields and thousands of potato samples. By combining this data with AI, they identified key bacteria that improve potato growth.
This breakthrough could change farming by using microbiology and AI to improve crop health. It can reduce waste, lower pesticide use, and make farming more sustainable. The same method could help with other crops, offering a solution to meet the world’s growing food needs.
Source: ioplus
