MUMBAI, India, Aug. 31 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202641101032 A) filed by Sri Eshwar College Of Engineering on August 20, 2026, for Smart Detection And Control Of Invasive Flathead Worms To Protect Earthworm Population.
Inventors include Nivethitha T; and Siva Subramanian V.
The application for the patent was published on August 28, 2026, under issue no. 35/2026.
Abstract: Earthworms maintain soil fertility through their role in nutrient cycling and their work in organic matter decomposition and soil aeration. The invasive predatory flatworms which have been spreading through new areas now endanger earthworm populations because they use their toxic secretions to hunt earthworms which results in fast population declines. Earthworm extinction leads to reduced soil biodiversity which causes diminished crop yields and faster soil deterioration. Flatworm detection proves difficult because these organisms stay hidden during nighttime and their appearance resembles that of harmless soil organisms which results in identification delays and soil management challenges. This abstract presents an AI-based worm detection system designed to accurately distinguish harmful flatworms from beneficial earthworms using image-based deep learning techniques. The system uses a ESP32 camera module together with a trained neural network model to perform real-time soil image analysis and organism classification at high accuracy levels. The detected results are transmitted to a digital monitoring platform which enables early alerts and data-driven intervention while reducing the need for chemical treatments. The proposed solution supports sustainable agriculture by protecting earthworm populations and maintaining soil ecosystem balance while it helps manage soil health for future development.
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