Abstract: An invention disclosing a device and method for the counting and identification of bacterial, mold or yeast colonies based on hyperspectral image capture and processing. A device for acquisition of hyperspectral images comprising camera capable of hyperspectral imaging, a hole inspection lens array and a light source arranged in or around a light housing is described. A method comprising a deep learning algorithm is made available for the processing of acquired hyperspectral data in order to detect, identify and count bacterial, mold or yeast samples contained within a Petri dish. In particular, the use of a hole inspection lens array allows acquisition of hyperspectral images of the complete inner surface of a Petri dish which, combined with the use of a deep learning algorithm ensure a high level of accuracy and sampling frequency.