POMEAI: Inteligência Artificial para Deteção Precoce de Doenças em Pomóideas usando Imagens Multiespectrais

This research project represents a comprehensive response to pressing challenges in Portuguese pome fruit orchards, specifically those induced by the proliferating threat of Stemphylium vesicarium. The gravity of the situation is demonstrated by the enormous economic losses exceeding 29 million euros from 2015 to 2020. Notably, the disease incidence surged drastically, escalating from less than 10% in 2020/2021 to over 30% in 2023/2024. This alarming trajectory emphasizes the urgency of addressing the limitations of current disease management strategies. The primary goal of this research is to present innovative solutions that directly tackle the critical challenges faced by fruit producers in Portugal. Stemphylium vesicarium, though not directly diminishing the fruit production capacity of trees, inflicts a substantial blow to overall production. Traditional management practices have proven inadequate in curbing the rapid spread of the disease, resulting in significant economic repercussions. The project's primary focus on early disease detection using advanced methodologies in data acquisition and correlation analysis is designed to revolutionize how orchards are managed. By doing so, the project aims to significantly contribute to mitigating economic losses and fortifying the resilience of Portuguese pome fruit orchards. The objectives of this research project are distinctly ambitious, pushing beyond the current state of the art in several crucial aspects. The incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, including drones and multispectral cameras, for early disease detection represents a groundbreaking approach. This utilization of advanced tools tailored to the challenges posed by Stemphylium vesicarium is a departure from conventional methods, introducing novel and pioneering concepts. The inherent ambition lies in developing a sophisticated disease detection model capable of identifying and addressing the disease in its initial stages, allowing for timely interventions, and minimizing further spread. Moreover, the project places a significant emphasis on correlation analysis and danger zone identification, transcending traditional disciplinary boundaries. By integrating diverse data sources that include air and soil quality alongside fruit and plant biological analyses, the research project introduces an interdisciplinary approach. This innovative strategy is pivotal for obtaining a holistic understanding of disease dynamics within orchards and developing effective management strategies. The objectives not only challenge existing practices but also introduce novel concepts that have the potential to redefine the landscape of precision agriculture. In conclusion, this research project emerges as a dedicated effort to confront and overcome the critical challenges posed by Stemphylium vesicarium in Portuguese pome fruit orchards. The objectives are ambitious, leveraging advanced technologies and interdisciplinary approaches to redefine disease detection and orchard management. The novelty lies in the commitment to introducing cutting-edge concepts and methodologies, promising advancements beyond the current state of the art. Through these ambitious objectives, the research project aspires to make a significant and lasting contribution to mitigating the impact of Stemphylium vesicarium, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future for fruit producers in Portugal.