Frequently asked questions
Samples and Materials:
I want to collect for ARISE. How can I get started?
Sign up as a collector through the online registration form.
I need materials to start collecting.
You can request a free sampling kit here. If you want to collect without a kit (or already have a collection you want to share), please contact us first at info@arise-biodiversity.nl.
I want to schedule an appointment to deliver my samples.
Would you rather deliver your samples in person instead of sending them (free of charge) by mail? This is possible only on weekdays, as the office is closed on weekends. Schedule an appointment by emailing info@arise-biodiversity.nl.
ADA and Target List:
Why should I use the ADA app to register my samples instead of just sending an Excel sheet?
Registering your samples in the ADA app ensures they are automatically added to your personal DNA Dashboard. Here, you can easily track the status of your samples and view the final DNA barcode results. Additionally, using the ADA app supports our automation processes. We are building an infrastructure to process a large number of samples quickly, efficiently, and with minimal errors. Manually entering and reading data from individual Excel sheets is time-consuming and increases the likelihood of mistakes.
How can I use the Target List?
Start by searching for a species name or another taxonomic group. This immediately provides information on the extent to which DNA barcodes are known. You can filter this information online to refine your search results further. You can also download your results for use in tools like Excel.
​
How often is the Target List updated?
The Target List is refreshed every two months, incorporating new species names or classifications from the NSR and adding new barcodes.
The species name is in the Target List but not in ADA.
The Target List is the most up-to-date resource. Collectors can manually enter the name in ADA via the ‘species remark’ field.
​
I can’t find my species in ADA, or the species name is incorrect (and other questions about missing/incorrect species names).
The species names in ADA and the Target List are based on the Dutch Species Register. If the name you’re looking for is missing, there are several possibilities:
-
Latin names may have changed. Perhaps the species or group has been renamed.
-
Some species are in the Species Register but not on our list, e.g., those that were later found not to be established in the Netherlands. These are species with status codes 3 & 4.
-
The species is not yet in the Species Register and is therefore new to the Netherlands.
If you disagree with the naming or occurrence status in the Species Register, you can contact the Dutch Species Register.
​
What about fungi?
Fungi cannot (yet) be registered in ADA. Fungi collectors can use this Excel template and send it, along with photos, to info@arise-biodiversity.nl.
Permits:
When do I need a permit/exemption, and when not?
-
If you are collecting, disturbing, or picking protected species, disturbing nests, destroying eggs, etc. (see here). In many cases, this also applies to possessing protected species.
-
If you use specific capture methods.
-
General: You need permission/access to the area where you wish to work.
Where can I find more information about which permit/exemption I need?
Click here for more information (in Dutch).
How do I obtain a permit/exemption?
Permits/exemptions must be applied for individually at the province where the collection activity takes place. Each province has its own procedure and requirements.
In general:
-
We only accept material that has been collected legally. Some collection activities require exemptions under the Nature Conservation Act or other permissions.
-
Dead animals found on public property can generally be collected without permits, with exceptions such as birds of prey (which must be delivered to a licensed preparator or Naturalis within three days) and all species listed under CITES.
-
Most living invertebrates can be collected individually by hand on public land without exemptions, provided no habitats are disturbed.
-
Collecting on private property (dead or alive, and with all techniques) always requires the landowner's permission.
-
When collecting species in water, the Fisheries Act and Fisheries Decree apply. In short, you need an exemption, and even with one, certain restrictions remain.
-
For non-selective capture techniques (e.g., pitfall traps, malaise traps), an exemption is always required.
Disclaimer: Naturalis has made every effort to inform collectors about the relevant rules and guidelines. Nevertheless, it remains the collector's responsibility to comply with all applicable laws and regulations at all times. Naturalis accepts no liability for any damage, direct or indirect, resulting from the collector's actions or omissions, regardless of whether such damage is caused by carelessness, ignorance, or any other reason.