Welsh scientists from Aberystwyth University are pioneering AI tools to measure plant seeds and pods, enhancing crop variety breeding. The research, conducted at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences and the Computer Science department, utilizes advanced AI to automate the labor-intensive process of assessing plant fruit traits like shape and size with high accuracy. This innovation not only improves measurement precision but also links physical traits to specific genetic regions, aiding scientists in understanding plant growth and development. The AI tool can analyze various crops, including oilseed rape, cabbages, and cereals like oats and barley. Kieran Atkins emphasizes that this deep learning technology revolutionizes large-scale phenotyping, unlocking new research possibilities. Professor John Doonan notes that it facilitates data-rich genetic analysis, transforming crop improvement strategies. The MorphPod tool is now accessible online for global researchers to enhance plant science methodologies.
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