How Machine Learning & Data Storage Could Help Save Plant Species

Lamb-succory (arnoseris minima), davall's sedge (carex davalliana) and red helleborine (cephalanthera rubra) are plants, native to the United Kingdom, that are endangered or already extinct1. The disappearances of these species might seem inconsequential in the grand scheme of things, but they're part of a global trend: A decrease in plant (and animal) biodiversity. Biodiversity is a critical component of the survival of any ecosystem. The variety of traits found in each plant (like a resistance to a certain type of insect, or prone to wilting) are critical to resilience of all species against shocks and stresses -- whether it be the arrival of invasive species, a natural disaster event or even climate change. Luckily, the growing availability of data storage and increasingly sophisticated machine learning techniques might be able to help.