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Chile to use AI to combat pests affecting soft fruit

Chile to use AI to combat pests affecting soft fruit

Technology could reduce the incidence of the spotted-wing drosophila by up to 60 per cent

Photo source: Alter_photo / iStock

Chile has launched a project to develop an early-warning system based on artificial intelligence, capable of predicting the risk of infestation by Drosophila suzukii, known as the spotted-wing fruit fly. The insect is one of the main pests affecting soft fruit production in the country.

According to El Maipo, a partner of TV BRICS, the platform will combine information on the pest’s life cycle, artificial intelligence algorithms and real-time meteorological data to identify periods of highest risk of infestation. Based on these forecasts, growers will be able to take preventive measures more accurately and efficiently.

In the initial phase, researchers will compare the results obtained on farms using the system with those recorded in control areas, where the technology will not be applied. The aim is to reduce the incidence of the pest by between 30 per cent and 60 per cent, depending on the initial level of infestation. Once the trials are complete, the tool is expected to be made available free of charge to growers across the country.

Native to South-East Asia, Drosophila suzukii differs from other fruit flies in that it attacks fruit that is still healthy while it is ripening, compromising its commercial quality even before harvest. According to experts, the integration of digital technologies and climate data represents a significant step forward in boosting productivity and strengthening the sustainability of Chilean fruit growing.

Cutting-edge technologies are increasingly being incorporated into the agricultural sector in countries of the BRICS and partner countries. Solutions based on artificial intelligence and biotechnology help to boost productivity, optimise work in the fields and develop agricultural varieties that are more nutritious, disease-resistant and adapted to climatic conditions.

China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS, reported that China is rolling out agricultural containers equipped with artificial intelligence to produce vegetables, mushrooms and medicinal plants all year round, regardless of weather conditions. The technology automatically monitors and adjusts factors such as temperature, lighting and irrigation, boosting productivity whilst reducing water consumption and the use of pesticides.

In Belarus, scientists have developed a national variety of white lupin, called Grek, through genetic breeding. According to BelTA, a partner of TV BRICS, the new cultivar combines high protein content, high yield, disease resistance and a low concentration of alkaloids, making it a safer alternative for animal feed.

Kazakhstan, meanwhile, is set to launch a project to produce virus-free seed potatoes, according to Kazinform, a partner of TV BRICS. The initiative will use advanced biotechnologies to propagate healthy seedlings and produce tubers, with the aim of increasing supply and meeting most of the domestic demand in the coming years.