Species Tracker (Group 2) - BNFO25

Visualize. Predict. Protect. – A species tracking tool to map sightings, monitor populations, and support global conservation efforts using real-time biodiversity data.

Comment

Note:

We were having audio issues when recording for the presentation. If anything sounds of looks off, that's why lol.

Inspiration

We began BNFOthon 2025 working on a machine learning model for cancer diagnosis, but the import time for the massive image dataset (14+ hours!) made it unfeasible. With limited time left, we pivoted to a project we felt deeply passionate about: species conservation. As nature lovers, we wanted to create something impactful—something that could help visualize biodiversity trends and support conservation efforts around the world.

What it does

Species Tracker allows users to input the name of any species and view global sighting data through interactive maps. It features:

  • A modern heat map showing population density

  • A pin map of recent sightings

  • A predictive map using current data to visualize future trends All data is pulled directly from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) in real time.

How we built it

We built our tool using a coding pipeline that:

  • Takes a species name input

  • Fetches occurrence data from GBIF via URL queries

  • Parses and visualizes the data on a world map

In parallel, we designed a Figma prototype, learning to use advanced features like component grouping, workflow linking, and modern UI design to bring our vision to life.

Challenges we ran into

  • Time constraints after switching project ideas midway through the hackathon

  • Slow rendering due to large datasets and time complexity in heat mapping

  • Overwhelming data volume for some species made historical marker maps too dense

  • Unreliable predictive maps for species with sparse data

Accomplishments that we're proud of

  • Learning to work with real-time databases via URL access

  • Visualizing complex global data in an intuitive, interactive way

  • Quickly pivoting and still delivering a functional and meaningful project

  • Creating a polished Figma prototype to demonstrate the tool’s UI/UX

What we learned

This project taught us:

  • How to parse and visualize live biodiversity data

  • The power of interactive maps in communicating scientific trends

  • Prototyping with Figma's design tools and workflows

  • How to collaborate and adapt quickly under pressure

What's next for Species Tracker (Group 2) - BNFO25

We plan to:

  • Integrate detailed species info: habitats, behavior, conservation status, etc.

  • Optimize map rendering for very large datasets

  • Improve the reliability of predictive modeling

  • Expand UI features in the Figma prototype for enhanced user interaction

Parth: Research + Presentation Curation + Presentation Presenter Yash: Python Code Implementation + Presentation Presenter Gabi: Research + Python Code Implementation + Presentation Curation Maryam: Figma UI Prototype + Presentation Curation

Built With

Share this project:

Updates