Field Information Management Systems for DNA Barcoding

Abstract

Information capture pertaining to the “what?”, “where?”, and “when?” of biodiversity data is critical to maintain data integrity, interoperability, and utility. Moreover, DNA barcoding and other biodiversity studies must adhere to agreed upon data standards in order to effectively contextualize the biota encountered. A field information management system (FIMS) is presented that locks down metadata associated with collecting events, specimens, and tissues. Emphasis is placed on ease of use and flexibility of operation. Standardized templates for data entry are validated through a flexible, project-oriented validation process that assures adherence to data standards and thus data quality. Furthermore, we provide export functionality to existing cloud-based solutions, including Google Fusion Tables and Flickr to allow sharing of these data elements across research collaboration teams and other potential data harvesters via API services.