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1is the head of bioinformatics at the Sainsbury Laboratory , Norwich , United Kingdom , and an honorary senior lecturer in the Department of Computer Science , University of East Anglia , Norwich , United Kingdom dan.maclean@tsl.ac.uk.
A new Facebook game enlists public help for genomics research into a devastating ash tree disease. This citizen science approach aids in understanding and combating the widespread European ash dieback.
Area of Science:
- Plant pathology and genomics
- Citizen science in ecological research
Background:
- Millions of ash trees across Europe are succumbing to a devastating disease.
- Understanding the genetic basis of ash tree resistance is crucial for conservation efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To leverage public participation through a novel gaming platform for genomics research.
- To accelerate the understanding of the disease affecting European ash trees.
Main Methods:
- Development of a Facebook-based game engaging the public in data collection and analysis.
- Utilizing citizen science contributions to advance genomics research on ash dieback.
Main Results:
- Successful recruitment of the public into a genomics research initiative.
- Generated valuable data through public engagement for disease research.
Conclusions:
- Citizen science games can be effective tools for ecological and genomics research.
- Public participation can significantly contribute to understanding and mitigating tree diseases.
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