Using PlutoF
PlutoF platform has been designed for storing and managing biodiversity data over the web. PlutoF provides database and computing services for the taxonomical, ecological, phylogenetical, etc. research. The purpose of the platform is to provide synergy through common modules for the classifications, taxon names, analytical tools, etc. In addition to storing diverse biodiversity data there are also various supporting services that are accessible in all modules (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Supporting services and modules of PlutoF. Base services (on the left) are accessible in all modules.
Here are some key features and services offered by PlutoF:
Data Management Plan: This includes guidelines on collecting, managing, and storing data during a research project.
Creation of Datasets: Users can create datasets in PlutoF by importing data from CSV files, manually entering data on the online workbench, or using the mobile application PlutoF GO for quick and easy data entry.
Curating and Sharing Datasets: The platform allows collaboration with other scientists, students, and citizen scientists by sharing individual records or entire projects and datasets.
Machine Readable Data: PlutoF provides public web services for retrieving data in a machine-readable format.
Running Analyses: The platform features an analysis module providing analytical services for molecular sequence identification and species discovery from environmental DNA (eDNA) samples.
DOI Publishing: Users can request a Digital Object Identifier (DOI) for their dataset or publish the data in the global data portal GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility).
Managing Different Data Types: This includes specimens, traits, samples, DNA sequences, eDNA, observations, taxa and classifications, references, and multimedia.
Target Audience: The platform is designed for researchers, data managers, citizen scientists, labs, organizations, museums, and universities.
PlutoF is a comprehensive tool for those involved in biodiversity research and data management, offering a wide array of functionalities to support the full lifecycle of biological data management and publication.
Figure 2. PlutoF offered Services
PlutoF service is rather simple to use for non-expert users. Here is a practical use case of the service for a citizens' science project.
