PESI - a taxonomic backbone for Europe

Area of Science:

• Biodiversity Informatics
• Taxonomic Infrastructure
• European Biodiversity Data

Background:

• Taxonomic interpretation variability challenges end-users in biology, conservation, and resource management.
• Lack of standardized, high-quality taxonomic data hinders non-specialists.
• Dynamic, expertly curated web-based tools are crucial for accessible taxonomic information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a taxonomic e-infrastructure for Europe.
• To standardize taxonomic reference systems and enhance data quality.
• To create integrated access to taxonomic information for biodiversity assessment.

Main Methods:

• Strengthening social and informational capacities of five European taxonomic indexing networks.
• Developing a web-based taxonomic e-infrastructure.
• Implementing standards for taxonomic data and access.

Main Results:

• The Pan-European Species-directories Infrastructure (PESI) successfully provided a unified taxonomic e-infrastructure.
• Enhanced capacities in taxonomic expertise, data standards, and technical access.
• Improved quality and completeness of European taxonomic datasets.

Conclusions:

• PESI has delivered significant results in standardizing and integrating taxonomic information.
• Future prospects involve continued involvement in major European biodiversity informatics initiatives.
• The project strengthens Europe's capacity for biodiversity assessment and monitoring.