Outdoor Detection of Plant Ultrasonic Emissions Using a Contactless Microphone
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Building on our previous work, this study presents a cost-effective, non-invasive methodology for recording, identifying, and analyzing plant ultrasonic emissions in dynamic environments, both indoor and outdoor. While previous research has utilized contactless microphones to compare water-stressed and hydrated plants indoors, to the best of our knowledge, no similar studies have been conducted in outdoor conditions. The objective of this study is to address the need for scalable, accessible tools for monitoring plant stress in a variety of environmental settings. Methods: Pinto bean and tomato plants were exposed to water stress conditions and monitored in both indoor and outdoor environments, with plant acoustic emissions recorded using an ultrasonic microphone. Results: The proposed methodology successfully recognized plant ultrasonic emissions even in the presence of high levels of environmental noise typical of outdoor conditions (e.g., wind, rain, or insect chirping). Conclusions: We argue that this method, with its minimal equipment requirements, is a valuable addition to the range of tools available for Plant Acoustics research, offering the potential for non-invasive monitoring in a variety of different environments.
Source: Physiologia
Authors: Luca Bonisoli, Luca Forti, Laura Arru
Institution: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W4407842393