A Guide and Toolbox to Replicability and Open Science in Entomology

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Open Science
• Scientific Reproducibility

Background:

• Replicability is fundamental to the scientific method, ensuring reliable and verifiable research outcomes.
• Sharing data, workflows, and protocols accelerates scientific progress and improves quality control.
• While fields like medicine and social sciences have adopted open science, entomology is developing its practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce tools and practices that entomologists can use to increase the replicability and openness of their research.
• To provide resources for learning about and implementing these tools.
• To discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks of adopting replicable workflows in entomology.

Main Methods:

• Review and description of tools commonly used in replicable scientific workflows.
• Identification of resources for further learning and adoption of open science practices.
• Discussion of the advantages and challenges associated with implementing reproducible research methods.

Main Results:

• Adoption of tools like version control systems and scripting languages can improve individual efficiency and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Open science initiatives are growing within entomology, but guidance is needed for practitioners.
• Implementing replicable workflows offers benefits to individual researchers and the broader scientific community.

Conclusions:

• Entomologists can enhance their research by incorporating open science tools and methodologies.
• Increased adoption of replicable workflows will strengthen the integrity and impact of entomological research.
• Further resources and community support are crucial for successful implementation of open science in entomology.