BOLD v4: A Centralized Bioinformatics Platform for DNA-based Biodiversity Data

TL;DR

BOLD v4 is an upgraded centralized bioinformatics platform that manages, analyzes, and disseminates DNA barcode data, supporting biodiversity research and species identification worldwide with enhanced features and broader utility.

Contribution

The paper introduces BOLD v4, a major update with improved data management, analysis, and publication tools, expanding its role in biodiversity science and species identification.

Findings

Hosts 17 million specimen records and 14 million barcodes.

Supports over a million species globally.

Enhanced data dissemination and publication features.

Abstract

BOLD, the Barcode of Life Data System, supports the acquisition, storage, validation, analysis, and publication of DNA barcodes, activities requiring the integration of molecular, morphological, and distributional data. Its pivotal role in curating the reference library of DNA barcodes, coupled with its data management and analysis capabilities, make it a central resource for biodiversity science. It enables rapid, accurate identification of specimens and also reveals patterns of genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships among taxa. Launched in 2005, BOLD has become an increasingly powerful tool for advancing understanding of planetary biodiversity. It currently hosts 17 million specimen records and 14 million barcodes that provide coverage for more than a million species from every continent and ocean. The platform has the long-term goal of providing a consistent, accurate system for identifying all species of eukaryotes. BOLD's integrated analytical tools, full data lifecycle support, and secure collaboration framework distinguish it from other biodiversity platforms. BOLD v4 brought enhanced data management and analysis capabilities as well as novel functionality for data dissemination and publication. Its next version will include features to strengthen its utility to the research community, governments, industry, and society-at-large.