Using machine learning algorithms to cluster and classify stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) populations based on seed and seedling characteristics

The phenotype of a woody plant represents its unique morphological properties. Population discrimination and individual classification are crucial for breeding populations and conserving genetic diversity. Machine Learning (ML) algorithms are gaining traction as powerful tools for predicting phenotypes. The present study is focused on classifying and clustering the seeds and seedlings in terms of morphological characteristics using ML algorithms. In addition, the k-means algorithm is used to determine the ideal number of clusters. The results obtained from the k-means algorithm were then compared with reality. The best classification performance achieved by the Random Forest algorithm was an accuracy of 0.648 and an F1-Score of 0.658 for the seed traits. Also, the best classification performance for stone pine seedlings was observed for the k-Nearest Neighbors algorithm (k = 18), for which the accuracy and F1-Score were 0.571 and 0.582, respectively. The best clustering performance was achieved with k = 2 for the seed (average Silhouette index = 0.48) and seedling (average Silhouette Index = 0.51) traits. According to the principal component analysis, two dimensions accounted for 97% and 63% of the traits of seeds and seedlings, respectively. The most important features between the seed and seedling traits were cone weight and bud set, respectively. This study will provide a foundation and motivation for future efforts in forest management practices, particularly regarding reforestation, yield optimization, and breeding programs.