GBIF and DNA
GBIF collaborates with geneticists to display DNA-derived data and offer a a more complete and inclusive picture of life on Earth
From the first microscope to DNA sequencing, technology has revolutionized our ability to observe and examine other lifeforms. Many of the organisms recorded today using genomic barcoding and metabarcoding are new to science. But without physical specimens or accepted scientific names, these DNA-based observations don't fit in formal taxonomic systems of naming, often leaving such 'dark matter' taxa overlooked in science, conservation and policy.
With the help of partners including UNITE, the European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), ELIXIR and MGnify, GBIF displays DNA-derived occurrence records, enabling cutting-edge research while expanding the range of FAIR and open data on biodiversity to present a more complete and inclusive picture of life on Earth.
