Abstract

A novel, non-invasive photosynthetic monitoring system utilizing noise analysis for early detection of crop stress and improved yield.

Background

Photosynthesis is the foundation of agriculture, directly influencing crop growth and yield. Efficient monitoring of photosynthetic processes is crucial for optimizing crop management and ensuring food security in the face of global challenges. Current methods for assessing photosynthetic performance, such as chlorophyll fluorescence measurements, primarily focus on signal intensity or lifetime. However, these approaches often detect stress only after visible symptoms appear, limiting the effectiveness of interventions.

Competing technologies in the market, such as the MultispeQ^4^ and the Mini-PAM^5^, rely on conventional fluorescence parameters and do not exploit the valuable information contained in signal fluctuations.

Our Innovation

A unique approach combining handheld fluorescent devices with advanced algorithms to analyze noise in photosynthetic signals for early stress detection.

  • Utilizes noise analysis techniques, well-established in engineering but underutilized in biology, to extract hidden information from fluorescence fluctuations
  • Enables early detection of nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease before visible symptoms manifest, allowing for proactive management
  • Non-invasive and real-time monitoring capabilities for seamless integration into precision agriculture practices
  • Potential to prevent yield losses through timely interventions, translating to significant economic benefits for farmers

Compared to existing solutions, our technology offers a more sensitive and predictive approach to photosynthetic monitoring. By harnessing the power of noise analysis, we can detect subtle changes in plant health days to weeks earlier than traditional methods. This unprecedented early warning system empowers farmers to optimize inputs, reduce waste, and maximize yields, ultimately enhancing the sustainability and profitability of crop production.

Technology

The proposed system integrates handheld fluorescent devices, commonly used in agriculture, with proprietary algorithms that detect and analyze fluctuations in the fluorescence signal. These fluctuations, or noise, contain valuable information about the health and efficiency of the photosynthetic apparatus. By applying advanced signal processing techniques, the system can identify specific patterns and signatures associated with various stress factors, such as drought, nutrient deficiency, or pathogen infection. This enables targeted and timely interventions to mitigate yield losses.

Opportunity

We will detect crop stress early in crops. For example,

  • irrigation stress which can result in water saving without damaging the crops. This is extremely important in the current climate change conditions.
  • Pesticide stress early detection which prevent large damage by late detection.

Patents and Publications

Provisional Patent Submitted.

Probing the design principles of photosynthetic systems through fluorescence noise measurement. Dr. Natalie Maroudas-Sklare, Dr. Gur Yaari, Prof. Nir Keren, Prof. Yossi Paltiel; Scientific Reports volume 14, Article number: 13877 (2024). https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-64068-7