A Proposed Framework for iFlora

Abstract

The next-generation Flora,or iFlora is an open application system (intelligent device) for plant species identification and data extraction.It derives from the accumulation of traditional plant taxonomy and related disciplines,but also integrates modern DNA sequencing technologies for collection and management of species information based on high-speed computer digitization,network technology and cloud computing analysis platform.Through two-way communication with this system,on one hand,new data and technology can be constantly integrated to enrich the content and function of the iFlora,on the other hand,to acquire the needed species information by means of variously identified pathways to achieve a rapid,accurate and convenient identification of species,so that it meets the cognitive demands of not only professional organizations but also the general public at different levels.The aim of this paper is to:1) explain the construction of the iFlora application device,the component libraries (including information on voucher specimens,molecular materials and DNA sequences),and their importance;2) point out the crucial role of digitizing species information and the open cloud computing service platform for data analysis because of the high integration and assembling capabilities of iFlora;and 3) discuss the challenges faced by the iFlora projects and outline possible intelligent device and application prospects in the near future.