“It is impossible to place a researcher behind every tree or in every field. It is inconceivable for biologists to grid the entire territory to survey species. Yet, this data is now crucial, not only to establish a precise assessment of biodiversity but also to understand species’ behavior and find concrete ways to act. » Géraldine Audrerie, ecological engineer, explains the call launched by the Nicolas Hulot Foundation with the National Museum of Natural History and theNational Union of CPIE (permanent centers for environmental initiatives) for a collective mobilization starting this summer.
To do this, simply connect to the collaborative platform OPEN (Participatory Observatories of Species and Nature) launched in June 2018 by these three institutions: all participatory science programs in metropolitan and overseas territories are listed there. The search is easily done according to several criteria (region, theme, species…): counting moths under the stars, going on an expedition to discover Mediterranean cetaceans, searching for the gold pincher beetle in forests, tracking witch’s claws on Brittany’s beaches… 146 observatories are listed, some having multiple study objects:
- 31 for small mammals
- 20 for large marine mammals
- 34 for reptiles and amphibians
- 50 for butterflies, pollinators, and other insects
- 46 for birds
- 13 for arachnids and millipedes
2 examples of programs related to the sea and oceans
1- Observing cetaceans in the Mediterranean – How to participate? TheCybelle Planète association organizes week-long excursions on a sailboat. Heading to the Pelagos sanctuary for marine mammals, off Monaco. Guided by an eco-guide, volunteers survey whales, dolphins, and also sea turtles.
– What is the scientific objective? The approximately 1,300 participants in the program have, since its creation in 2005, contributed to about fifteen research reports. Surveys of large cetaceans (fin whale and sperm whale) have notably identified risk areas for collision with merchant ships.
– For whom? The excursions are open to all, with three levels (beginner, experienced, expert). Boaters can also make observations directly from their boat.
– Where? Throughout the Mediterranean, in the Pelagos sanctuary for excursions. To learn more about this observatory on OPEN
2- Enriching the inventory of heritage at 20 meters underwater with the BioObs program – How to participate? The BioObs program, initiated in partnership with the French Federation of Underwater Studies and Sports (FFESSM) and the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN), is dedicated to divers. Their mission: to observe species, photograph them, and enter observation data on the BioObs site. This data then enriches the National Natural Heritage Inventory (INPN) database, managed by the MNHN. Launched in 2013, this program has already mobilized 950 observer divers who have made more than 55,000 observations.
– What is the scientific objective? To date, more than 800 marine or freshwater species, living in metropolitan or overseas territories, are not or barely illustrated in the INPN. The BioObs program aims first to provide information to this database. It also contributes to mapping the distribution of species and their evolution over time. The « blood-mouth purple » snail, a formidable predator of mussels and oysters, was thus spotted in Normandy for the first time in 2018, even though it is normally not found above Arcachon.
– For whom? Autonomous divers.
– Where? Everywhere on the metropolitan coast, but also overseas. Lake dives are also included in the program.To learn more: see the information on this program on OPEN