bioWatch: INSECT NET Finalists Compete in the 2024 Nittany AI Challenge

Penn State's INSECT NET is excited to encourage graduate and undergraduate students to compete in the PSU's annual Nittany AI Challenge, which offers cash prizes and support for prototype development to the most competitive teams. Read on to learn more about the exciting and revolutionary work that our students are doing to advance the INSECT NET mission in 2024:

The bioWatch Team: A Fusion of Vision, Talent, and Innovation

At the heart of bioWatch lies a dynamic team driven by a shared passion for leveraging technology to combat environmental challenges. Our journey began within the projects of the InsectNET program, where the initial spark for using AI to identify invasive species, starting with the box tree moth, was ignited. What started as a project protecting Pennsylvania boxwoods, Yanqiu Yang and Kittiphum Pawikhum, quickly evolved into a larger mission. Initially focusing on the box tree moth, we recognized the challenges in reporting the spotted lanternfly through current practices. This realization led us to expand our ideas to detect a variety of invasive insects, reflecting our deep commitment to biodiversity and ecosystem protection.

As our idea flourished, so did our team. Joining forces for the Nittany AI Challenge, we expanded our horizons and welcomed new talents who brought fresh perspectives and expertise:

• Yanqiu Yang, Ph.D. student, Agricultural and Biological Engineering
• Kittiphum Pawikhum, Ph.D. student, Agricultural and Biological Engineering
• Matthew Walter, junior student, Engineering Science
• Benjamin Oleynik, junior student, Human-Centered Design and Development
• Ludy Ren, junior student, Computer Science
• Kyle Ketterer, junior student, Computer Science

Together, we embody the spirit of innovation and collaboration. Each team member brings unique skills and perspectives, united by a common goal: to make a significant impact on environmental conservation through technological excellence. As we continue to grow and explore new frontiers, the bioWatch team remains committed to developing solutions that empower communities, protect biodiversity, and foster a sustainable future.

bioWatch: Revolutionizing Invasive Species Management Through AI and Citizen Science

bioWatch is at the forefront of environmental conservation, harnessing cutting-edge AI, augmented reality (AR), and now, the power of large language models (LLMs) to engage communities in identifying, reporting, and managing invasive species. By combining instant species identification with an educational and interactive platform, bioWatch empowers users from all walks of life to contribute to global biodiversity efforts.

Our Innovative Features:

• Instant Species Identification and Reporting: Utilize our AI-driven technology to quickly identify invasive insects, plants, birds, and animals with just a simple scan, turning every user into a citizen scientist. With user permission, bioWatch records the location from the image metadata, which enables quick and precise reporting. Each report enhances our understanding of the distribution of the invasive species in an area and take swift actions.
• AR Gamification for Education: Earn badges, climb the leaderboard, and embark on AR-powered adventures, making learning about biodiversity fun and immersive, fostering a new generation of environmental stewards.
• Tailored User Experiences: Offering versions for professionals, educators, and the general public, bioWatch caters to the needs of entomologists, hikers, school kids, and anyone interested in contributing to environmental conservation.
• Connecting Experts to Stakeholders: Our platform bridges the gap between citizen scientists and conservation experts, facilitating collaboration and informed action against invasive species.
• LLM-Powered Chatbot for Pest Management: A groundbreaking addition, our tailored chatbot leverages LLM technology to provide users with guidance and decision-making support on invasive pest management, making bioWatch a valuable tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The Future of bioWatch:

Looking ahead, bioWatch is committed to expanding its capabilities and reach. We aim to enrich our database with more species, enhance our educational tools, and refine our AI and AR features. The potential integration of LLM technology for a chatbot further positions bioWatch as a leader in innovative solutions for biodiversity conservation and invasive species management.

Join Our Mission:

bioWatch is more than just an app; it’s a movement towards a sustainable future. Whether you’re documenting discoveries on a hike, educating students about the environment, or making informed decisions on pest management, your contributions are vital. Join us in our mission to protect global biodiversity—one scan, one decision, one step at a time.