Case studySound science to boost tomato pollination and fruit productionResearchers at Western Sydney University are using sound waves to mimic bee buzzes, unlocking floral self-pollination, increasing tomato yield, and reducing reliance on labor-intensive manual pollination. This innovative sonic approach is precise, scalable, and shaping the future of automated, sustainable horticulture.
Media CoverageCould WA truffles become a year-round proposition?A sheep and vegetable farm on Western Australia's southern coast has become ground zero for a trial that could triple the state's truffle production.
Local research homing in on the year round truffleSerena KirbyMedia CoverageLocal research homing in on the year round truffleAcademics, farmers, industry partners and representatives converged on the McHenry farm at Mt Lindesay recently to hear about these advancements in truffle cultivation. Local research initiative Silverplace which is collaborating with Murdoch University, Universita de Bologna Italy and Future Food Systems Cooperative Research Centre to expand the Australian truffle industry organised the day.
ArticleSonic-induced cellular vibrations unzip intertwined anther cone trichomes to trigger floral self-pollination and boost tomato fruit sizeIn a Future Food Systems project with funding partner Perfection Fresh Australia, led by Western Sydney University, researchers have developed an acoustic-induced pollination solution for protected cropping that uses inexpensive precision photoacoustic technology to enhance horticultural tomato crop production, supporting sustainable production and breakthroughs in pathogen control.
ProjectAcoustic-induced pollination in protected croppingThe project demonstrated the feasibility of using focused acoustic vibrations to induce pollination in tomato crops without physical contact. It offers a scalable, lower-cost alternative to manual methods, reducing labour needs and enabling greater precision in pollination timing. This innovation positions Australian growers to adopt more efficient, technology-driven practices, contributing to the broader shift toward automation and sustainability in horticulture.
