Access and Utilize ITIS for Detailed Animal Species Information

Public database of animal specifications

One public database that provides extensive animal specifications is the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS). ITIS is a comprehensive database managed by the United States federal government, specifically the United States Geological Survey (USGS), in collaboration with other organizations such as the Smithsonian Institution and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

ITIS contains detailed information on the taxonomy, nomenclature, distribution, and ecological characteristics of various animal species. Here’s how you can access and utilize this resource for specific animal specifications:

1. Visit the ITIS website: Start by going to the ITIS website at https://www.itis.gov/.

2. Search the database: On the home page, you will find a search box where you can enter the name of the animal species you are looking for. Type in the common or scientific name of the animal and hit the search button.

3. Explore species profiles: Once you’ve searched for a particular species, you will be presented with its species profile. This profile includes taxonomic hierarchy, synonyms, common names, geographic range maps, literature references, and other relevant information.

4. Access detailed information: Within the species profile, you can navigate through various tabs to access further details. For instance, the “Classification” tab will provide you with information about the taxonomic hierarchy of the species, including its kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, and genus. The “Geographic Distribution” tab will display maps and descriptions of where the animal can be found.

5. Refer to literature references: ITIS provides a comprehensive list of literature references associated with each species. These references can help you dig deeper into the specific animal’s anatomy, behavior, habitat, and other relevant specifications.

6. Additional features: ITIS also offers links to other databases, such as the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), which can provide further information and data on specific animal species.

It is important to note that while ITIS is a prominent and reliable source, it may not cover every single animal species. Some less-studied or recently discovered species might not be listed or have limited information available. In such cases, you may need to explore other specialized databases or consult scientific literature for more specific and detailed information.

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