SORTING SYSTEMS BASED ON OPTICAL METHODS FOR DETECTING AND REMOVING SEEDS INFESTED INTERNALLY BY INSECTS OR FUNGI: A REVIEW^*

Abstract

Sorting systems based on optical methods have the potential to rapidly detect and physically remove seeds severely contaminated by fungi, or infested internally by insect larvae or pupae. Thus, the literature on sorting systems based on optical methods for detecting and sorting seeds with these attributes was reviewed. Sorting indices based on wavelengths useful for detecting these attributes were emphasized. Surface characteristics of seeds, like discoloration caused by fungi, are generally detectable in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum, whereas internal attributes are detectable in the near-infrared range. The spectral differences between sound and infested seeds are usually subtle, but full-spectrum and two-wavelength classification models have succeeded in detecting and classifying seeds based on these attributes. For high sorting accuracies, wavelength identification and proper selection of a sorting criterion are important. Color, chitin, ergosterol, or hydrolysis of triglycerides have been identified as indicators of seed fungal contamination whereas chitin, protein, phenolic compounds, or changes in starch have been useful indicators of internal insects in seeds.

^*Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.

Keywords:

• Seeds
• Insects
• Fungi
• Internal infestation
• Fungal infection
• Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy

Acknowledgments

Notes

^*Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.