The assembly of a reference library of barcode sequences derived from vouchered specimens represents the 'core' business of the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD). Although GenBank will act as the primary barcode repository, there remains a need for specialized software to support the acquisition, organization and analysis of barcode data. BOLD aims to meet this need. The basic data unit in BOLD is a Darwin-core compliant specimen record and its associated sequence information. The specimen record includes images, when they are available, and high resolution satellite imagery of the collection locale. The data units are embedded within project modules that are password protected until released for publication. Aside from its role in the management and display of specimen and project information, BOLD includes a repertoire of analytical and data interchange tools. By coupling these capabilities with web-based accessibility, BOLD provides an effective environment for dialogue between the taxonomic experts and molecular geneticists that often comprise barcode teams.

BOLD’s relationship to GenBank: BOLD has the ability to make block transfers to GenBank. Data exchange between BOLD & GenBank will work on a high-throughput database-to-database protocol, similar to the arrangements made with some genome centers. Bold is currently looking for beta testers of the web-based barcode submission tool.