A study conducted by researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst showed that using artificial intelligence technologies to analyze bee buzzing can help monitor pollinator activity, estimate their numbers, and reduce the need to use traditional traps that cause insect deaths.
The specialized entomology journal "Approaches in Entomology" reported on Wednesday that researchers developed deep learning-based models to analyze field audio recordings, accurately distinguishing insects, which allows monitoring bee activity without catching or harming them.
The researchers clarified that the decline in pollinator numbers, especially bumblebees, is linked to several factors, including the widespread use of chemical pesticides, loss of natural habitats, and accelerating climate change. They noted that the pollination services provided by insects contribute to supporting ecosystems and agricultural production.
The researchers explained that the technology relies on two computer models integrated into the "Raven Pro" audio analysis software. The first monitors general bee activity at a specific site through audio recordings, while the second distinguishes between honeybees and bumblebees with an accuracy ranging between 93 and 97 percent.
This technology allows scientists to monitor bee activity in hard-to-reach or sample-collecting sites, such as high tree canopies, as well as during severe heatwaves, providing a less harmful alternative to water and soap traps that may lead to the death of non-target insects.
The researchers emphasized that the technology does not aim to completely replace traditional monitoring methods and laboratory tests, but rather to provide an additional tool to help track pollinators and evaluate their activity, thereby supporting biodiversity conservation efforts.
Bees play a fundamental role in pollinating plants and maintaining ecological balance, and they contribute to supporting food security, making the development of safe and effective means to monitor their populations an important step in conservation efforts.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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