BRIN develops AI research for identifying superior chilli phenotypes
The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing research to identify the phenotypes of superior chilli varieties more quickly, objectively, and consistently using artificial intelligence (AI) and Computer Vision.
Eka Prakasa, Head of the Data and Information Sciences Research Centre (PRSDI) at BRIN, stated during an online discussion in Jakarta on Wednesday that the application of this technology can accelerate the variety characterisation process, which previously relied on manual observation.
“In the long term, this technology is expected to strengthen Indonesia’s digital agriculture ecosystem, increase productivity and the competitiveness of national seeds, and support food security through data-based technology utilisation,” he said.
He added that the AI-based system can serve as a decision-making tool for researchers, plant breeders, seed producers, and government agencies, making the development process of superior varieties more effective.
Meanwhile, Wiwin Suwarningsih, a researcher at PRSDI BRIN, explained that the need for fast, accurate, and consistent variety identification is increasing to support plant breeding, seed certification, plant variety protection, and genetic resource management.
She noted that advancements in AI, particularly Computer Vision and Deep Learning, present opportunities to automatically identify plant phenotypes through leaf image analysis and other morphological characteristics.
“This research aims to produce a method for identifying chilli varieties that is fast, objective, accurate, and consistent. It is also intended to integrate phenotypic information with AI technology to support the automatic characterisation of varieties,” Wiwin stated.
She added that the research is expected to support plant breeding activities, seed certification, variety purity testing, and the conservation of genetic resources through digital technology. The findings could also serve as a recommendation for applying AI technology to support plant breeding, seed purity testing, variety certification, and plant variety protection in Indonesia.