# DNA Barcoding Assistant

> Mobile tool for collecting and exporting specimen metadata for biodiversity research. (iPhone/iPad app by Coastal Marine Biolabs Integrative Biosciences Program.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/dna-barcoding-assistant/id477080376 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Coastal Marine Biolabs Integrative Biosciences Program](https://appshunter.io/developer/477080379)
- Category: Productivity, Utilities
- Price: Free
- Rating: 5.00/5 from 1 App Store ratings
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 10.0 · 6 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2011-11-03
- Data updated: 2026-07-06
- Monetization: free
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/dna-barcoding-assistant/id477080376/reviews.md

## What is DNA Barcoding Assistant?

The DNA Barcoding Assistant is a mobile technician application that provides an intuitive interface to acquire specimen metadata for the International Barcode of Life (iBOL) project and other biodiversity initiatives. Core features enable users to capture unique identifiers and compile records that contain provisional user-assigned taxonomic identifications, digital images, geospatial data, and collection event details for specimens obtained in the field. The specimen records created with the DNA Barcoding Assistant are exported to the iPhone Mail app as attachments that are readily imported into an Excel spreadsheet. Imported text and linked image data can then be authenticated, edited, and uploaded to the Barcode of Life Data Systems (BOLD) using the specimen data and image submission protocols outlined in the BOLD handbook.

To streamline the process of cataloging and tracking field specimens that are destined for museums, tissue banks, and other vouchering institutions, the DNA Barcoding Assistant integrates open-source technology to extract identifiers and other forms of data encoded by barcode symbols affixed to specimen storage containers (e.g. vials, Whirl-Pak®, Nalgene® bottles, etc.). Currently supported barcodes include: EAN/UPC Product Codes, QR Codes, Code 128, Code 39, Code 93, DataBar (RSS), and Interleaved 2 of 5 and data matrix. A user may also manually input a sample ID, if desired.

For educational audiences, the DNA Barcoding Assistant is a particularly versatile e-learning tool for students engaged in various biodiversity-based explorations aimed at promoting bioliteracy.

## Key features

- Capture specimen metadata
- Record taxonomic identifications
- Attach digital images
- Geospatial data logging
- Barcode scanning (EAN/UPC, QR, Code 128, etc.)
- Manual sample ID input
- Export data to email/spreadsheets


## Frequently asked questions about DNA Barcoding Assistant

### What is the DNA Barcoding Assistant used for?

The DNA Barcoding Assistant is a mobile application designed to help field technicians collect and organize specimen metadata for biodiversity research initiatives. It allows for the capture of identifiers, taxonomic information, images, and collection details.

### What types of barcodes can the DNA Barcoding Assistant scan?

The application supports scanning a variety of barcode types, including EAN/UPC Product Codes, QR Codes, Code 128, Code 39, Code 93, DataBar (RSS), Interleaved 2 of 5, and Data Matrix. Users can also manually input sample IDs.

### How is data exported from the DNA Barcoding Assistant?

Specimen records created with the DNA Barcoding Assistant are exported via the iPhone Mail app as attachments. These attachments are readily importable into Excel spreadsheets for further analysis and submission to databases like BOLD.

### What devices is the DNA Barcoding Assistant compatible with?

The DNA Barcoding Assistant is available for iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices. It is rated for ages 4 and up.

### How often is the DNA Barcoding Assistant updated?

The latest version of the DNA Barcoding Assistant is 1.5.2, which was last updated on March 31, 2020. Users can expect updates based on the developer's release schedule.

### Is the DNA Barcoding Assistant free to use?

Yes, the DNA Barcoding Assistant is available for free. There are no in-app purchases or advertisements associated with this application.

### What is the user rating for the DNA Barcoding Assistant?

The DNA Barcoding Assistant has a perfect rating of 5.0 stars based on one user review. This indicates a very positive user sentiment among its current users.

### Can the DNA Barcoding Assistant be used for educational purposes?

Yes, the DNA Barcoding Assistant serves as a versatile e-learning tool for students engaged in biodiversity explorations. It promotes bioliteracy by providing hands-on experience with data collection and cataloging.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 1.5.2 — 2020-03-31

13.x compatability

### 1.5 — 2018-11-29

Support for iOS 11 and later.

### 1.2.1 — 2013-05-10

bug fixes supporting new iOS versions & devices

### 1.2 — 2012-07-14

- Added support for Data Matrix barcodes

### 1.1 — 2012-04-04

-  Data records can be saved without assigning a photo.
-  App now supports sending of data records to device.
Visit http://dnabarcodingassistant.org for more information on downloading your data records to your personal computer.

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-07-06.*