Call for Observers and Identifiers

The Asia Nature Challenge (ANC) addresses the underrepresentation of Asia’s biodiversity in global citizen science data. Through participating, you will help bridge this gap by contributing observations that elevate the role of Asia in biodiversity awareness and conversations. This challenge is especially important if you are from a region with limited biodiversity documentation. Your findings if they become research-grade can significantly enhance global understanding of the species in this part of the world.

Beyond individual contributions, the event fosters regional collaboration by connecting citizen scientists, environmental organisations, and communities across Asia. Together, the collaborative effort strengthens biodiversity networks and encourages long-term participation in global initiatives. This is your opportunity to play a crucial role in the early stages of an initiative that could shape long-term conservation efforts. So, whether you are observing or identifying species, your involvement supports a broader mission—to improve biodiversity research and awareness across the region.

How to Participate: It’s Easy!

As an observer…

October 18 – 21

Observe nature around you

Whether on a hike, heading to the beach, or just going around town, pay attention to the diverse wildlife around you. Look for any plant, animal, insect that is not captured nor cultivated.

Record your observation

Take photos or an audio recording of your discovery and make note of its location. This is easy with the iNaturalist app as it will guide you through the necessary steps.

Share your findings

Upload your observations to iNaturalist where a global community can leverage your contribution for scientific research and also provide you an opportunity to engage and learn more about your discovery.

As an identifier…

October 22 – 27

Engage the community

If you are interested in helping the community to better organise all the observations, you can survey the iNaturalist platform to see which submissions have not been identified.

Provide identification or categorisation

Suggest at minimal a high-level group like “plants,” “insects,” “bird,” or “fungi” for unidentified observations. This seemingly simple step is critical as humans can recognise and discern the primary subject much quicker than computers.

Review suggestions

Confirm or correct any identification suggestions that were already made. You will have access to experts in the community for discussions and debates so it is a great learning opportunity!

Why Join?

Community Engagement: Connect with like-minded citizen scientists from across Asia and contribute to a collective conservation movement.
Collaborative Efforts: Gain access to resources and training, ensuring everyone, regardless of experience, can make a meaningful impact.
Expert Guidance: Receive support from experienced researchers and collaborating organisers throughout the event.
Be Part of Something Bigger: Your participation supports the start of a large-scale, ongoing initiative to track and protect Asia’s biodiversity.

With dedicated support from the ANC team as well as Collaborating Organisations, we’re here to ensure you have everything you need. Ready to make an impact? Let’s celebrate Asia’s biodiversity together!

Fill out the registration form to participate and make sure to join the Asia Nature Challenge 2024 iNaturalist Project today! For more details, check out the press release.