Species Database

Comprehensive species database with taxonomy, conservation status, and ecological traits.

Overview

FieldEco includes a comprehensive species database for Indian fauna, pre-bundled for instant offline access. You can identify and record species without needing an internet connection.

Database Features

Taxonomic Hierarchy

The database provides complete taxonomic classification for each species:

1. Kingdom - Animalia
2. Phylum - Major body plan groups (Chordata, Arthropoda, etc.)
3. Class - Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Amphibia, Insecta, etc.
4. Order - Carnivora, Passeriformes, Squamata, etc.
5. Family - Felidae, Corvidae, Colubridae, etc.
6. Genus - Panthera, Corvus, Naja, etc.
7. Species - Complete scientific name with authority

Search Functionality

Smart Search

The search finds species by matching:

• Scientific names
• Common names
• Vernacular names (regional languages)

Exact matches appear first, followed by partial matches.

Search Tips

• Type at least 3 characters to start searching
• Search by scientific name: “Panthera tigris”
• Search by common name: “Bengal Tiger”
• Search by vernacular name in regional languages
• Partial matches work: “tig” finds Tiger species

Conservation Status

All species include IUCN Red List conservation status when available:

The conservation status appears as a color-coded badge next to each species, helping you quickly identify species of conservation concern.

Ecological Traits

Each species record may include additional ecological information:

Trophic Level

• Herbivore
• Carnivore
• Omnivore
• Insectivore
• Frugivore
• Nectarivore
• Scavenger

Activity Pattern

• Diurnal (day-active)
• Nocturnal (night-active)
• Crepuscular (dawn/dusk active)
• Cathemeral (active throughout)

Migratory Status

• Resident
• Migratory
• Partial Migrant
• Altitudinal Migrant

Using the Species Database

During Data Collection

1. Tap the species search field
2. Type the species name (scientific or common)
3. Select from the dropdown results
4. The full taxonomic information is automatically recorded

Recording Unlisted Species

If a species isn’t in the database:

1. Type the species name manually
2. Select “Add as custom species”
3. Fill in available taxonomic details
4. The custom entry is saved for future use

Viewing Species Details

Tap any species in your observations to see:

• Complete taxonomic hierarchy
• Conservation status
• Ecological traits (if available)
• Your observation history for that species

Data Sources

Species Data

The species database includes:

• Comprehensive Indian fauna coverage
• Verified taxonomic classifications
• Current nomenclature following ICZN rules
• Endemic species markers

Conservation Data

IUCN Red List data is integrated from:

• IUCN Global Assessment
• Regional assessments for India

Offline Availability

The entire species database is bundled with the app:

• No internet required for species search
• Database updates with app updates
• Conservation status always accessible

Best Practices

Species Identification

1. Use multiple field marks before identifying
2. Take photos for verification
3. Note behavior and habitat
4. Cross-check with field guides if uncertain

Recording Observations

1. Search by the most certain name (scientific preferred)
2. Add notes about confidence level
3. Document distinguishing features
4. Include photos when possible

Working with Custom Species

1. Use standardized scientific names
2. Verify spelling before saving
3. Add common names for easier future searches
4. Include taxonomic level if known

Troubleshooting

Search Not Finding Species

• Check spelling
• Try scientific name instead of common
• Try partial name (genus only)
• Search may need 3+ characters

Species Shows Wrong Classification

• The database uses current accepted taxonomy
• Recent taxonomic revisions may not be reflected
• Report discrepancies via the contact form

Related Documentation

• First Survey - Recording observations
• Checklist Survey - Species lists
• Data Export - Exporting species data