Researchers in the Chinese mainland have unveiled PlantGPT, an artificial intelligence system designed to revolutionize plant functional genomics. Developed using rockcress (Arabidopsis thaliana) as a model organism, the tool provides precise answers and specialized analyses for researchers studying plant genetics, according to a report by China Science Daily.
PlantGPT combines advanced language models with genomic databases to interpret complex biological data, offering insights into gene functions, crop resilience, and sustainable agriculture. The system’s developers at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Peking University say it acts as a “virtual botanist,” streamlining research processes that previously required months of laboratory work.
This innovation arrives as global demand for food security solutions intensifies. Analysts suggest PlantGPT could accelerate the development of drought-resistant crops and nutrient-enhanced varieties, particularly in rice and wheat—staples critical to Asia’s agricultural economies. The tool is already being tested by research teams in Southeast Asia and Africa.
Dr. Li Wei, a lead researcher on the project, emphasized its collaborative potential: “PlantGPT bridges computational science and field biology, empowering both academic institutions and agritech startups to tackle climate-related challenges.”
While initially focused on rockcress, the team plans to expand the AI’s capabilities to cover over 200 plant species by 2025, including economically vital crops like soybeans and maize.
