Users can discover occurrence records using DNA or RNA sequences
Nucleotide sequence searches are now possible through GBIF.org, allowing users to discover occurrence records not only through names but also genetic sequences. This new feature follows recent major upgrades to the GBIF.org website, which consolidate developments in taxonomic backbone handling and enhanced data exploration capabilities.
Using the “sequence similarity” filter in the occurrence search tool, users can search for nucleotide (DNA) sequences of up to 2,048 base pairs. Searches are matched to existing biodiversity data in GBIF indexed against the Catalogue of Life Extended Release. Based on sequence similarity, matches will allow users to explore spatial diversity patterns for exact or related matches.
The sequence search functionality can be combined with additional filters such as target gene and sequence length. Additional capabilities are available through the GBIF occurrence API. To support enhanced exploration of DNA data, GBIF has developed DNA sequence sanitization mechanism, allowing raw nucleotide sequences to be normalized, compared and searched without altering the raw data. Standardizing sequences allows for consistent indexing while also generating quality metrics that can be used to flag potential issues with individual sequences.