Sémiotique de l’agriculture numérique

This article explores the intersection of contemporary agri-food production and innovative technologies through the prisms of the new concepts of “zooverse” and “phytoverse”, conceptual domains where virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and digital twins are redefining human interactions with the biological world. The zooverse includes virtual spaces and simulations dedicated to the study and management of animal environments, enhancing zootechnical applications. The phytoverse, on the other hand, refers to virtual applications that model agricultural processes involving plants, helping to visualize ecosystems and optimize cultivation techniques. Although operationally distinct, these two fields are closely linked, reflecting the interconnectedness inherent in ecological systems where animals and plants coexist and interact symbiotically. This analysis highlights the semiotic role in interpreting how meaning-making processes are used in these virtual environments, influencing farming practices, animal husbandry, and technological adoption. The study reveals how these advanced tools not only transform agricultural production but also offer profound insights into natural systems, proposing innovative perspectives for resource management. The integration of VR and AI promises a deeper and more respectful understanding of life forms, potentially revealing uncomfortable truths about the impact of human activities on these beings and their habitats. In this way, a genuine revolution in agricultural and zootechnical practices is taking shape, conditioned by our ethical commitment and our interpretation of non-human ‘languages’ through emerging technologies.