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A Comprehensive Review of Digital Twins Technology in Agriculture

Author

Listed:
  • Ruixue Zhang

    (School of Computer Science and Communication Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China)

  • Huate Zhu

    (School of Computer Science and Communication Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China)

  • Qinglin Chang

    (School of Computer Science and Communication Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China)

  • Qirong Mao

    (School of Computer Science and Communication Engineering, Jiangsu University, Xuefu Road 301, Zhenjiang 212013, China
    Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Big Data Ubiquitous Perception and Intelligent Agricultural Applications, Zhenjiang 212013, China
    Key Laboratory of Computational Intelligence and Low-Altitude Digital Agricultural New Technology of Jiangsu Universities, Zhenjiang 212013, China)

Abstract

Digital Twin (DT) technology has emerged as a transformative tool in various sectors, like agriculture, due to its potential to improve productivity, sustainability, and decision making processes. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the applications, challenges, and future directions of DT technology in agriculture. We explore the key concepts and architecture of DTs, focusing on the layering and classification of DT systems. The review delves into the various applications of DTs, such as crop planting management, pest and disease control, livestock management, optimization of agricultural machinery and resource, and agricultural decision support systems. Furthermore, we highlight the integration of agricultural data acquisition, simulation, and modeling techniques that form the backbone of effective DT implementation. Despite its promising potential, the adoption of DTs in agriculture faces several technical challenges, including data acquisition issues, integration difficulties, and the standardization of 3D crop models. Finally, we discuss future direction of DT technology, emphasizing the importance of overcoming existing barriers for wider application and sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Ruixue Zhang & Huate Zhu & Qinglin Chang & Qirong Mao, 2025. "A Comprehensive Review of Digital Twins Technology in Agriculture," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 15(9), pages 1-25, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jagris:v:15:y:2025:i:9:p:903-:d:1639514
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    References listed on IDEAS

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