PestDetectSim: an integrated approach for crop pest diagnosis using object detection and similarity-based image retrieval

PestDetectSim integrates automated detection with user-assisted verification, offering practical reliability through case-based visual evidence, with modest accuracy gains complemented by improved interpretability. Furthermore, a prototype smartphone application was developed to validate its practicality in real-world conditions. This application allows users to capture pest images, receive instant detection results, and review retrieved similar images for verification. These findings demonstrate PestDetectSim's potential as a reliable and interactive diagnostic tool for real-time pest monitoring and sustainable agricultural management.