Help wanted to write book of life

Help wanted to write book of life

news.bbc.co.uk

A virtual book of all life on Earth is being created by UK and US scientists.

The online reference work will create a detailed world map of flora and fauna and track changes in biodiversity.

The database, dubbed a "macroscopic observatory", will be populated with data about local species gathered by members of the public.

Early elements of the giant database, such as automatic species identification systems, are already under construction.

(visit the link for the full news article)

Apparently the backers of this are the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, and the London's Natural History Museum.

I'm trying to find out but I smell something fishy. Especially after I read this:

Within 10 years, expect its backers, all aspects of the database will be available. Some parts of the system, such as images of species, maps of the seas and gene sequences to help with DNA barcoding, are already in use.

I'm trying to find out if anyone like Monsanto or a big Biotech company has any involvment. I can see some kind of DNA patent or other use for this.

news.bbc.co.uk
(visit the link for the full news article)

[edit on 1-6-2009 by kiwifoot]