The field of bioacoustics is allowing scientists to listen to the sounds of nature that exist at frequencies beyond the human ear. Through the use of digital technology, scientists can now detect and record the sounds of plants and animals previously inaccessible to us. This technology involves the use of small microphones that can be attached to trees to capture the sounds of ecosystems. The recorded data is then processed by AI software, which can identify the species making the sounds and recognize patterns in the audio. This breakthrough in bioacoustics provides opportunities to understand the communication and needs of different organisms, including plants. It also offers a wealth of information for conservation efforts, allowing for better monitoring of species and response to challenges like climate change. The advancements in AI algorithms further enhance the potential of bioacoustics, with the possibility of creating a plant-focused translation software in the future. Overall, bioacoustics is expanding our understanding of the natural world and providing new insights for conservation and sustainability.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bioacoustics: Finding the Voices of Other Species | Accessing frequencies previously inaccessible | Better understanding of plant communication | Advancement in technology and conservation efforts |
| Development of “digital bioacoustics” | Communication expanding beyond chemical signals | Ability to translate natural language | Desire to better communicate with the natural world |
| Use of small microphones for recording ecosystem sounds | Real-time identification of species from audio | Richer picture of specific habitats | Advancement in AI technology |
| Recognition of plant communication about their needs | Understanding plant needs and responses | Opportunity for human intervention | Enhancing plant species survival |
| Research on decoding animal communications | Creation of dictionaries to understand them better | Learning about ecological knowledge | Desire to understand animals and their behavior |
| Individual discoveries using bioacoustics | Utilizing new information on a larger scale | Advanced protection of vulnerable species | Conservation efforts and rewilding programs |
| Advancement in AI programs for processing recorded sound | Tracking and identifying species more accurately | Early identification of diseases in communities | Conservation and disease prevention |
| Possibility of accessing a plant-focused Google Translate | Understanding plant communication on a personal level | Improved communication with plants | Advancement in technology |
| Print annual of Plantings available for purchase | Access to inspiring articles and photography | Promotion of living sustainably | Desire for inspiration and knowledge |