A globally integrated structure of taxonomy to support biodiversity science and conservation
This research presents a globally integrated structure of taxonomy designed to improve interoperability across biodiversity data sources. By identifying key elements needed for taxonomic integration, the study highlights how coordinated taxonomic systems can strengthen biodiversity science, enable synthesis across disciplines, and support effective conservation planning.
Subject Tags
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Biodiversity
Abstract
All aspects of biodiversity research, from taxonomy to conservation, rely on data associated with species names. Effective integration of names across multiple fields is paramount and depends on the coordination and organization of taxonomic data. We assess current efforts and find that even key applications for well-studied taxa still lack commonality in taxonomic information required for integration. We identify essential taxonomic elements from our interoperability assessment to support improved access and integration of taxonomic data. A stronger focus on these elements has the potential to involve taxonomic communities in biodiversity science and overcome broken linkages currently limiting research capacity. We encourage a community effort to democratize taxonomic expertise and language in order to facilitate maximum interoperability and integration.
Citation
Sandall, E. L., Maureaud, A. A., Guralnick, R., McGeoch, M. A., Sica, Y. V., Rogan, M. S., ... & Jetz, W. (2023). A globally integrated structure of taxonomy to support biodiversity science and conservation. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 38(12), 1143-1153.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2023.08.004
TNC Authors
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Jennifer McGowan
The Nature Conservancy