Biological Data Collection Tools
While there are many organizations working to gather information about the world's biodiversity, there are still many data gaps! The goal of this initiative is to mobilize both the community and professionals to collect accessible and unbiased baseline data across this urbanizing landscape.
Our Smartphone Applications
MyField App
This smartphone application targets anyone interested in recording their wildlife observations that will assist in local conservation research and environmental studies. Similar to other Naturalist applications, My Field App records location, date, time and allows the user to indicate the species of the plant or animal observation. This app is meant to be a quick and easy-to-use data collection tool, that allows users to submit information anonymously.
The app is currently available for both iPhone and Android users! Get started by creating an account today!
How is it used?
- To easily document any notable sighting of a plant or animal, use this app to simply take a picture of your observation.
- Other relevant data are automatically assigned to the photo (i.e. date, time, location, weather), and the user can add more information when possible (i.e. type of plant or animal).
- The photo and data are saved in your app, and can later be uploaded to your Aerial Field Diary on our Aerial database.
- All submissions to the Aerial database are anonymous!
- All submissions will be checked by 8Trees staff and species ID will be confirmed or edited as necessary.
- Log into your Aerial account any time to view and edit your Aerial Field Diary!
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MyFish App
This smartphone application targets the interests of anglers and fishermen, making it quick and easy to record your catches using photos. Information collected and submitted to our Aerial database will be similar to My Field App , which allows your submissions to be anonymous, and you can view all past catches in your Aerial diary online. The free version of the app will soon be available to download for both iPhone and Android users.
Software Developer Notes: The real magic in My Fish App is the detection algorithm that we have developed to perform pixel/colour analysis to detect object bounds in the photo, i.e. the reference object and the fish. The quality of the image and associated lighting conditions play a huge factor in the detection accuracy.
When taking a picture of your fish, try for best lighting. The ideal scenario is lighting from over your shoulder onto the fish. Avoid lighting directed at the camera.
The Biologist Toolbox
Coming soon.