GBIF and DNA

Advances in sequencing technologies, like DNA barcoding of specimens and metabarcoding of environmental DNA, have revolutionized how we detect, delimit, identify and quantify species and species assemblages. These methods allow scientists to detect organisms that traditional methods miss while accessing habitats that are otherwise difficult–or impossible–to survey.

Many DNA-based observations involve organisms that lack formal scientific names. Because they are not yet integrated into traditional taxonomic systems, these groups of “dark taxa” risk being overlooked in conservation, science and policymaking, despite their broad distribution, functional diversity and substantial biomass. However, molecular species catalogues enable GBIF to index these dark taxa alongside recognized species, ensuring that they surface in the global pool of biodiversity data.

By working with a widening circle of partners and collaborators, GBIF is expanding its collection of DNA-derived biodiversity data, from barcoded museum specimens to environmental DNA samples collected in the wild. By incorporating such DNA-derived data, GBIF helps bring dark taxa to light while advancing toward a more faithful digital representation of the planet’s biodiversity.