Neural identification of selected apple pests

• The study was based on neural network modeling methods, including image analysis.
• Artificial neural networks as a powerful tool to identify pests.
• The color of pests as the dominant input variable of a neural model.
• The best classification ability was achieved by MLP topology.

The subject of this study was to investigate the possibility of using artificial neural networks as a tool for classification, designed to identify apple orchard pests. The paper presents a classification neural model using optimized learning sets acquired on the basis of the information encoded in the form of digital images of selected pests. This study predominantly deals with the problem of the identification of 6 selected apple pests which are most commonly found in Polish orchards. Neural modeling techniques, including digital image analysis, were used to classify the pests.The qualitative analysis of neural models produced, indicates that multi-layered perceptron (MLP) neural network topology achieve the best classification ability. Representative features, allowing for effective pest identification are 23 visual parameters in the form of 7 selected coefficients of shape and 16 color characteristic of pests. The dominant input variables of a neural model, determining the correct identification of the features, contain information about the color of pests.Our results support the hypothesis that artificial neural networks are an effective tool that supports the process of identification of pests in apple orchards. The resulting neural classifier has been created to assist in the decision-making processes that take place during the production of apples, in the context of protection against pests.