Timiryazev Academy Develops Digital Tools for Plant Analysis
Researchers at the Digital Phenotyping Laboratory of the Project Institute for the Digital Transformation of Agriculture at the K.A. Timiryazev Russian State Agrarian University–Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy are studying plant characteristics using microscopy, computer vision, and three-dimensional modeling.
One area of research focuses on analyzing plant tissues through fluorescence microscopy using ultraviolet and red light. The technique allows researchers to assess chlorophyll activity and cell health while detecting signs of disease before visible symptoms appear.
Another research area involves computer vision systems for monitoring the quality of fruit and berry products. The algorithms analyze images of fruit and berries, identify areas showing signs of fungal infections, rot, and other defects during production and storage, and alert specialists when products should be inspected or removed. The technology is especially valuable during peak berry harvest season, when conventional visual inspection becomes labor-intensive.
Researchers are also creating three-dimensional digital models of plants by capturing the shape, size, and arrangement of their organs. These data help compare plant varieties and accelerate breeding research.
