The Australian National University in Canberra (ANU) has announced a first-of-its-kind citizen science project to research and conserve Australia’s butterflies.
The Butterflies Australia Project encourages participants to download an app to record and upload what type of butterflies they’ve seen and where, giving scientists crucial information that will help protect at-risk species.
The app will include a field guide with basic information about how to identify every species of butterfly found in Australia. Where possible, there will also be photographs of all the different forms and life stages of each species.
Research Officer at ANU, Chris Sanderson said while butterflies were one of Australia’s best known insect species, there was a serious lack of scientific data about them.
“Everyone loves butterflies, but there is still so much to learn about them, and anyone who takes part in this project could be the person to make the next big discovery,” Mr Sanderson said.
“Butterflies are an excellent species to target, as they are active during the day, and often large and brightly coloured, making them easier to spot.”
He said by collating both old and new sightings into a central database, and verifying it through a panel of experts, the project would allow for research and conservation work that was currently impossible.
“There are currently eight types of butterfly listed as threatened with extinction, but experts believe as many as 38 species are potentially under threat,” Mr Sanderson said.
More information is available at this PS News link.
