Crucial in the development of joint tools, is the set-up of a reliable DNA sequence library together with preservation of taxonomically validated specimens. Linking DNA sequences and existing taxonomy (species names) is one of the strengths of GEANS, as it is important that data and results from traditional monitoring surveys can still be used after implementation of genetic methods.
Many projects generate sequence data, but fail to link with the ecological and functional information accompanied with taxonomic research. Our approach consolidates the information gathered over the past 100 years and complements traditional approaches, which is key for application in routine monitoring for ecosystem health assessment. Below an overview of North Sea macrobenthos species can be found. For this list, a DNA barcode gap analysis has been executed. Available sequences were controlled for quality and based on stakeholder needs, missing species were barcoded. In addition, a direct link to the Barcode of Life System (BOLD) is provided to consult the reference library.