The Barcode of Life Database is designed to support the generation and application of DNA Barcode data. The platform consists of three main modules, a data portal, a database of barcode clusters, and data collection workbench. The Public Data Portal provides access to all public barcode data which consists of data generated using the Workbench module as well as data mined from other sources. The Barcode Index Number (BIN) system assigns a unique identifier to each sequence cluster of COI, providing an interim taxonomic system for species in the animal kingdom. The workbench module integrates secure databases with analytical tools to provide a private collaborative environment for researchers to collect, analyze, and publish barcode data and anciallary DNA sequences. This platform also provides an annotation framework that supports tagging and commenting on records and their components (i.e. taxonomy, images, and sequences), allowing for community-based validation of barcode data.

Public Data Portal A data retrieval interface that allows for searching all 1.3M public records in BOLD using multiple search criteria including, but not limited to, geography, taxonomy, and depository. Search results can be summarized, plotted on high-res maps, and downloaded.

BIN Database A searchable database of Barcode Index Numbers (BINs), sequence clusters that closely approximate species. This system allows for rapid validation and use of barcode data where taxonomic data are lacking or unverified.

Workbench An integrated data collection and analysis environment that supports the assembly and validation of DNA barcodes and ancillary sequences. This application provides a secure storage environment for molecular research data but also allows for sharing with other users.