APP
The Network for the Study of Mycological Diversity (NMD) uses an application (app) to collect mycological records as part of the national macrofungi census initiative.
The app allows contributors to record their field observations in a standardized format and submit them directly to the Fungal Information System (SIF), where the data are verified and published.
The Survey123 for ArcGIS App
The application used by the Network is Survey123 for ArcGIS, a free tool developed by Esri for collecting georeferenced data.
ISPRA has developed within this platform a specific form for submitting mycological data collected by the Network’s contributors.
This form, called SIF 6.1, enables data to be entered in a consistent format and automatically submitted to the Fungal Information System.
The app can be installed on smartphones and tablets (Android o iOS) as well as on PCs (Windows o macOS).
A video tutorial is available to guide users through the initial configuration:
Configuration – Video tutorial
Joining the Network
To use the app and submit records, it is necessary to register with the Network.
After registration, each contributor receives a personal ID code that allows access to the form and links the submitted data to their profile.
The Two Data Collection Forms
Within the app, there are two forms available, depending on the type of data to be submitted:
1 – Field Records (SIF 6.1)
For recent data, collected from 2021 onwards directly in the field.
The form can be completed either in the field (also offline) or on a PC.
2 – Historical/Archived Records (SIF 6.1 historical)
For data from personal archives, publications, or collections prior to 2021.
To learn how to use the app and correctly fill in the fields, a second tutorial is available:
Habitat Information
Census activities also include a brief description of the habitat associated with each finding.
To help with the completion of the habitat field, an illustrated guide is available with photographic examples of the main habitat types.
Submitting Specimens to the Fungarium
When submitting data (field or historical/archived), contributors can also request through the app to send dried specimens to the fungarium for their conservation (see the fungarium section).