There are a large and growing number of  tools and applications for submitting, viewing, downloading and sharing biodiversity observation records. In many instances, sharing a sighting will result in multi-use outcomes spanning research, monitoring, planning and conservation. More specifically, observational data is critical in developing threatened species listings, informing environmental impact assessments, and preparing recovery plans.

This interactive map has been developed as a guide to the network of biodiversity data systems and the connections between them. The data network map aims to:

• Encourage the community to capture and submit biodiversity observation data;
• Help determine which application or repository is the most appropriate for your needs;
• Show data exchange relationships between systems to better understand how submitted data is managed, accessed and used; and
• Provide an overview of the state and national network for observational biodiversity data

A list of citizen science apps and websites is also provided in the SWIFFT resource library.

Feedback, suggestions and corrections for the network map are encouraged and welcome. Please contact SWIFFT with your ideas or requests to include other applications and data platforms. Tips on using the interactive map are provided below.

View full screen version.

Tips

• Scroll in and out to view connections easier, or hover mouse over a connection or element (repository)
• Click on an element to view more information and link
• Type into the 'Search' bar to view repositories that house that specific data. I.e. "bird" will list where bird records can be submitted. Or type "mobile" to view a list of apps that allow you to submit your sightings using your mobile phone.
• To view repositories where you can submit observational data, hover mouse over "Biodiversity observation/survey." Likewise, to see direct ins/outs of data hover mouse over any element.
• Click and hold on an element to enter focus view. This can help to identify direct (1 degree) and indirect sources (2 degrees) of data input