Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) is a sophisticated bioinformatics platform incorporating a repository for DNA barcode records and data management infrastructure for large-scale barcoding projects. It also features analytical functions focused on the quality assurance of barcode data and on the generation of specimen identifications.
BOLD is a genetic databank specifically designed to support biodiversity science. Along with a curated sequence library, BOLD also provides a platform for collaboration and quality assurance in a convenient on-line system that delivers a standardized environment for building the library.
The major challenges confronting BOLD over the next five years are being addressed by two Working Groups.