Hyperspectral discrimination of ginseng variety and age from Changbai Mountain area

Background: The efficacy and market value of Panax ginseng Meyer are significantly influenced by its diversity and age. Traditional identification methods are prone to subjective biases and necessitate the use of destructive sample processing, leading to the loss and wastage of ginseng. Consequently, non-destructive in-situ identifi-cation has emerged as a crucial subject of interest for both researchers and the ginseng industry. The advancement of technology and the expansion of research have introduced spectral technology and image processing technology as novel approaches and concepts for non-destructive in-situ identification. Methods: Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a methodology that combines conventional spectroscopy and imaging to acquire comprehensive spectral and spatial data from various samples. In this study, we investigated the use of Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM) classifier algorithms, in conjunction with HSI classification technology, for quasi-Artificial Intelligence (quasi-AI) ginseng identification. To enhance the hyperspectral images prior to SVM classification, we compared the efficacy of Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Minimum Noise Fraction (MNF), and Independent Component Analysis (ICA). Results: The classification of ginseng based on age was accomplished through the utilization of Radial Basis Function (RBF) kernel SVM and SAM algorithm, which was trained on feature enhanced images. The classification of WMG, MCG, and GG is primarily based on age, with the endmember spectrum serving as the foundation for SAM and SVM. Conclusion: The "endmember spectrum set" derived from the classification outcomes can serve as the "mutation point" for identifying ginseng of different ages.