Strengthening molecular biodiversity research and monitoring in Norway – connecting tools, data and people

Sammendrag

Background Norway’s diverse ecosystems and strong research community are well-positioned to leverage molecular approaches (DNA barcoding, eDNA, whole-genome sequencing) for biodiversity research and monitoring. However, progress is constrained by gaps in data accessibility, standardisation, and interoperability across molecular, ecological, and biobank datasets. Methods ELIXIR’s Norwegian Molecular Biodiversity Working Group mapped national actors and networks through a desk review (2024–2025) and conducted a national survey (58 questions; open from 18 February to 8 March 2024) targeting data management, standards, tooling, infrastructures, and training. The survey was implemented in Nettskjema and received 58 responses from biodiversity-related researchers. Results We identified 19 Norwegian institutes active in molecular biodiversity and 28 relevant networks, with 11 networks involving three or more institutes. The survey results highlight gaps between policy and practice: 60% of respondents were familiar with the FAIR principles, but only 29% consistently made data fully open or FAIR-compliant. Data linkage with physical specimens was often reported as missing (38% of respondents), and taxonomic assignment was frequently challenging (39.3%). Most researchers reuse published datasets (90%), but data discovery and reuse are hindered: only 41% find it easy to locate relevant data, 32% struggle to find appropriate sequence databases, 54% cite insufficient metadata, and 72% need to harmonise combined datasets. Tool discoverability and documentation were limited (32% knew bio.tools; 5% WorkflowHub; 32% agreed tools are well documented and user-friendly). Data publication is not straightforward (63.8% find it hard or answered neutral). Conclusions Norway can strengthen molecular biodiversity research by 1) connecting molecular and ecological data, collections, and biobanks using persistent identifiers; 2) adhering to international metadata standards (e.g., DwC, MIxS) and rewarding data stewardship; 3) consolidating national collaborative networks; and 4) building capacity through targeted training and dedicated data steward roles. Implementing these measures will enhance interoperability, FAIR data sharing, and Norway’s leadership in biodiversity research and conservation.