What the OpenSites do

Both sites bring together (aggregate) biodiversity data, media, images, and text contributed by multiple individuals that allow users to generate: 

• Species distribution maps 
• Checklists for use in research and/or teaching 
• Flashcard identification quizzes 
• Documented data for use in ecological modelling and association analyses.

Benefits of the OpenSites

• Collectors make better collection records 
• Collection managers demonstrate the value of their collections 
• Researchers document their research 
• Field crews learn to recognize the species known to occur in an area 
• Teachers develop flashcard quizzes for teaching students to recognize important species in their region. 
• Engage multiple user groups in developing a digital biodiversity network for a region 
• Familiarize all who use the sites with some of the fundamental concepts of informatics, particularly biodiversity informatics.