These are major global platform examples that IKIMON should benchmark and potentially collaborate with.
1. iNaturalist
Overview
The world's largest and most successful wildlife observation social network. Operated as a joint initiative of the California Academy of Sciences and the National Geographic Society.Features
- AI Identification Technology: When you upload a photo, the AI (Computer Vision) accuracy for suggesting "is this it?" is extremely high. This has dramatically lowered the barrier for beginners.
- Community Identification: Even if the AI is wrong, experts and enthusiasts from around the world teach you the correct species name (process of elevation to Research Grade data).
- Open Data: Research-grade data is transmitted to GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) and used in thousands of scientific papers.
Implications for IKIMON
IKIMON aims to reference iNaturalist's excellent functionality while being a platform deeply rooted in Japan's unique culture and local communities.2. eBird
Overview
A bird-focused platform operated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Used by birdwatchers worldwide, its scientific contribution is unparalleled.Features
- Checklist Format: Encourages users to collect statistically rigorous data including not just "what you saw" but "what you didn't see (species you didn't record even though you were there)."
- Gamification: Rich features like "lifetime species count" and "annual rankings" stimulate collectors' desire.
3. Biome
Overview
Japan's largest organism collection app created by a venture company from Kyoto University.Features
- "Creatures GO" Approach: Like Pokémon GO, very game-oriented with points awarded based on rarity and quest features (e.g., "Find the Seven Spring Herbs").
- Proprietary AI: Developed AI specialized for domestic Japanese organism images.
Similarities and Differences with IKIMON
Biome's "game-oriented entertainment" approach is wonderful, and IKIMON will similarly actively incorporate gamification. If it's not fun, it won't continue. This is truth.So, what's different?
IKIMON's greatest feature is its "integration with Nature Coexistence Site (OECM) applications."
The World IKIMON Aims For
While Biome and iNaturalist pursue "the fun of individual discovery," IKIMON emphasizes that "those discoveries lead to official conservation activities."
Make All of Japan Nature Coexistence Sites
We have a grand dream.
All of Japan becomes Nature Coexistence SitesA single photo taken during a walk becomes OECM application data for companies and local governments. Your discovery becomes the power to have that land officially certified as "a place that should be conserved."
Collecting badges like a game, before you know it, you're protecting Japan's nature. A mechanism where fun and social contribution naturally connect.
That is "the difference from competitors" that IKIMON aims for.
References
- iNaturalist. https://www.inaturalist.org/
- eBird. https://ebird.org/
- Biome. https://biome.co.jp/