"It will help in modelling and data mining as well as analytics to gain insights into evolving issues related to plant diversity," Desai told IANS, adding sophisticated computing such as concept mapping (graphical tools for organising and representing knowledge) form a core component of the web-based tool.

A Decision Support System (DSS) is a computer-based information system that enables organisational decision-making activities and helps in making decisions about problems that may be rapidly changing and not easily specified in advance.

This feature aims to produce real-time and useful information for scientists concerned with conservation management in specific regions of the country.

The web application will facilitate one to glean information regarding flora by family, genus and provide updated correct scientific name and will be accompanied with high resolution images in near future.

"It will provide a rough idea about the location of the plant and the extent of its distribution in India. That way, any one working on conservation can use this data and analyse for strategies for conservation," said Singh, adding the BSI plans to digitise over two million herbarium collections representing distribution of plants in time and space.

"We are also planning to link it with Geographic Information System (GIS) in future so that precise place of occurrence can be provided," said the director.

The database also targets common man.

"It has a user-friendly interface and students or anyone wishing for complete information on one site can access it," added S.S. Dash, scientist, BSI.

The application currently has information on 4,000 species and is being loaded with more data.

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