Portable Microscope for Automatic Microalgae Identification, Created by UB Students

UB students create a portable microscope with automatic microalgae counting

In the latest developments in the world of environmental technology, the Creative Initiative Scheme (PKM-KC) Student Creativity Program team from Brawijaya University (UB) has presented a microalgae detection tool. This tool uses Deep Learning Mask CNN (Convolutional Neural Networks) technology to automatically identify and calculate microalgae concentrations with a high level of accuracy.

The PKM team consists of Nidaan Khofiya, Zahra Cahya Ramadhani, Audynalia Kogitans, Azzahra Dwi Putri Hermansyah, and Naufal Hilmiy Nizar Wahyudi.

Under the guidance of Dr.Agr.Sc. Ir. Dimas Firmanda Al Riza, ST., M.Sc, IPM, this team created and designed a digital microalgae detection system so as to provide effectiveness and efficiency values for microalgae processing at the next stage.

“Microalgae, microscopic organisms that play an important role in various sectors, from aquatic ecology to the biotechnology industry, can now be detected and identified quickly and efficiently due to this innovative tool,” said the Team Leader, Nidaan Khofiya.

This detection tool takes microscopic images of water samples and uses Deep Learning Mask CNN technology to analyze the morphology of microalgae. Optimized algorithms enable this tool to differentiate between various microalgae species with an unprecedented level of accuracy.

In addition, this tool is also able to calculate the concentration of microalgae in samples, which is very important information in monitoring aquatic ecosystems and microalgae-based production.

This detection tool has great potential for various applications. Monitoring water quality and identifying changes in aquatic ecosystems becomes more accurate and easier. Industries that use microalgae as raw materials, such as animal feed and biofuel production, can also manage their supplies more efficiently.

“This detection tool is an important milestone in the understanding and management of microalgae. “We hope that this tool will make a major contribution to environmental conservation and sustainability efforts,” hoped Nidaan.

Microalgae detection tools that use Deep Learning Mask CNN technology bring significant changes in the way microalgae are detected and understood. This innovation brings new hope in environmental monitoring, the biotechnology industry, and more.

“Hopefully this tool will be a source of inspiration for researchers around the world to continue developing technology that supports environmental conservation and sustainability,” he concluded.

Further information about this tool can be seen on the Instagram account @microalgae_detector. [*/Irene/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir]