Researchers in Canada use AI to halt rapid insect extinction
The project hopes to double the amount of biodiversity information collected in a few years, providing insight into the drivers of insect loss.
Canadian researchers are using AI to monitor insect extinction. Photo: AFPResearchers in Canada are using artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor the ongoing mass extinction of insects.
“Of all the mass extinctions we have experienced in the past, the one affecting insects is happening a thousand times faster,” said Maxim Larrivee, director of the Montreal Insectarium.
Some data collection is happening under a large transparent dome. Thousands of butterflies, ants and praying mantises are being studied.
Larrivee said high-resolution cameras, low-cost sensors, and AI models could process data and double the amount of biodiversity information collected over the last 150 years in just two to five years.