This optical illusion from the natural world is testing the limits of computer vision.

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Science reports:

If you see a curled leaf in the image above, you’ve fallen for the intricate camouflage of the green fruit-piercing moth (Eudocima salaminia)—a citrus-loving insect that uses the ruse to hide from predators. But don’t feel too bad: Even artificial intelligence (AI) is easily fooled, according to a study published today in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.

Researchers asked pattern-recognizing AI to generate 3D images of six moth species—including the green fruit-piercing moth—based on 2D photos of their camouflage patterns. Instead of rendering recognizable insects, the programs spit out images resembling curled leaves or tree bark.

The scientists hope to further test this technique with different lighting and backgrounds to see whether the AI is as gullible in a range of natural settings. They also want to include more animal species that use camouflage for purposes beyond tricking predators, such as communicating warning signs or signals or courtship with their species mates. The team says the results offer insight on predator behavior, too; they’re probably as easily fooled as the computer. [Continue reading…]