Key Takeaways
- Veridi Technologies and Wageningen University & Research (WUR) developed an AI system that identifies the Meloidogyne chitwoodi nematode with 96% accuracy.
- The technology matches the performance of experienced taxonomic nematologists, addressing a global shortage of specialized expertise.
- Plant-parasitic nematodes reduce global agricultural output by approximately 10%, resulting in tens of billions of euros in annual losses.
- The system is integrated into the Nemascope™ platform, enabling faster and more accessible soil diagnostics for farmers.
- Future developments by Veridi Technologies will focus on monitoring soil biodiversity indicators to align with the European Soil Monitoring Law.
Advancing Soil Diagnostics at Veridi Technologies
The Hague-based Veridi Technologies, in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research (WUR), has developed an artificial intelligence system capable of identifying complex nematode species. Traditionally, identifying these microscopic worms requires highly specialized taxonomic expertise and expensive laboratory equipment, which are only available in a limited number of locations globally.
The new AI system is integrated into the Nemascope™ platform. It has been specifically trained to recognize Meloidogyne chitwoodi, a root-knot nematode that is notoriously difficult to distinguish from other variants. During validation trials, the AI achieved an accuracy rate of 96%, a level of precision that aligns with the work of human experts.
The Role of Veridi Technologies
Nematodes are microscopic worms that exist in almost all soil types. While many are beneficial, parasitic species cause significant damage to ornamental flower bulbs, onions, and seed potatoes. Because infected crops often become deformed or ineligible for export, these pests pose a direct threat to the economic viability of agricultural sectors.
“This breakthrough demonstrates how artificial intelligence can make highly specialised biological expertise accessible at scale,” said Ziad Matar, CEO of Veridi Technologies. “When farmers have reliable tools to understand what is happening beneath their fields, they can make better decisions, reduce unnecessary chemical use and protect yields. In that sense, investing in soil health is also investing in a more resilient and ultimately more balanced world.”
Technical Collaboration
To build the model, the team at Veridi Technologies used thousands of annotated microscope images provided by WUR. The researchers supplied verified specimens from controlled cultures and conducted validation checks to ensure scientific reliability. This collaboration ensures that the digital diagnostic tool remains reliable for Integrated Nematode Management (INM).
Accurate identification is central to INM, which aims to control harmful species while reducing reliance on chemical nematicides. Measures vary significantly by species: some decline through crop rotation or green manures, while others respond to adjusted cultivation timing. For regions where specialist laboratories are scarce, an affordable and reliable identification tool could be transformative for soil resilience.
Future Expansion for Veridi Technologies
Veridi Technologies and WUR are currently expanding the system’s capabilities through a program supported by the European Innovation Council. The next phase of development involves identifying non-parasitic, free-living nematodes.
These species act as critical indicators of soil biodiversity, helping farmers and policymakers comply with the newly adopted European Soil Monitoring Law. This legislation places increasing emphasis on measurable soil health, and AI-powered diagnostics are positioned to support the industry in meeting these new standards.
