September 1, 2018 (Vol. 38, No. 15)
Rating:
Strong Points: Easy to use
Weak Points: Limited species included, can’t register for EDDMapS within app
Platform:
iPad/iPhone
Cost:
Free
Summary:
The iBioControl app lets concerned citizen-scientists contribute to the fight against invasive plant species by allowing users to document and upload observation reports. The app uses the Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System (EDDMapS) to record users’ observations. As such, would-be invasive species sleuths need to go online and register for an EDDMapS account before they will be able to upload to the EddMapS queue their reports created within the app. Within the app, users can create reports that document either the release of a weed-controlling agent like a specific insect, an observation of particular biological control agents, a negative report stating the observed absence of particular invasive species, or a report of a weed infestation. Twenty-seven types of weeds are included in the app, along with a longer list of corresponding control agents. App users can upload photos to accompany their reports using the camera on their mobile devices.
