Using iNaturalist to Obtain Distribution Data for Idaho Amphibians and Reptiles
Faculty Mentor Information
Charles R. Peterson
Abstract
Historically, it has been difficult to record and share observations of amphibians and reptiles, thus limiting the amount of information available for determining and understanding changes in their distribution. The goal of this project was to improve available data by collecting observations using iNaturalist, a mobile application that allows people to contribute observations of organisms using their mobile device. Observation records include photographs, time, date, and geographic coordinates of an observation. For this study, we created a project and guides using the iNaturalist website. Participants have included students, teachers, and agency personnel. In the first 6 weeks, we have recruited about 20 participants and mapped scores of observations throughout Idaho. It appears that iNaturalist will be an effective way to gather and share data. With continued use, the data generated will help researchers and natural resource agencies better understand and manage changes in amphibian and reptile distribution in Idaho.
Using iNaturalist to Obtain Distribution Data for Idaho Amphibians and Reptiles
Historically, it has been difficult to record and share observations of amphibians and reptiles, thus limiting the amount of information available for determining and understanding changes in their distribution. The goal of this project was to improve available data by collecting observations using iNaturalist, a mobile application that allows people to contribute observations of organisms using their mobile device. Observation records include photographs, time, date, and geographic coordinates of an observation. For this study, we created a project and guides using the iNaturalist website. Participants have included students, teachers, and agency personnel. In the first 6 weeks, we have recruited about 20 participants and mapped scores of observations throughout Idaho. It appears that iNaturalist will be an effective way to gather and share data. With continued use, the data generated will help researchers and natural resource agencies better understand and manage changes in amphibian and reptile distribution in Idaho.
Comments
Poster #W46