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WI Fish ID

University of Wisconsin-Madison
Evidence Tier:DOCUMENTED

Published in academic literature

For:Researchers & AcademicsEducators & TeachersGeneral Public & Enthusiasts
Free
Download on the App Store

App Summary

WI Fish ID is a reference tool designed to help users identify 174 Wisconsin fish species using a multi-feature query system, photo galleries, and dichotomous keys. The associated research describes the development of this photo-based system, which incorporates over 4,000 photos and data on distinguishing morphological features for each species. The authors note that although the system was resource-intensive to develop, initial user feedback has been positive.

App Screenshots

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Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

The system facilitates offline identification of 174 Wisconsin fish species, leveraging a database of over 4,000 photographs. It provides three identification pathways: direct name search, a multi-feature query tool, and a browsable photographic gallery. The query interface captures input on key morphological features, including body shape, fin structure, and pattern. Each species entry delivers a detailed description, multiple high-resolution images, and cross-references to similar-appearing species to aid in differentiation.

Evidence & Research Context

  • The system's design and development are detailed in a research article describing the photo-based computer identification tool for Wisconsin fishes.
  • The underlying database contains over 4,000 photographs cataloging the 174 fish species native to or found in Wisconsin.
  • The associated research outlines a multi-modal identification approach, incorporating dichotomous keys, a multi-feature query engine, and a gallery-based visual comparison.
  • The system includes quantitative and qualitative data on distinguishing characteristics, an illustrated glossary of morphological terms, and direct comparisons among similar species.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is designed as a field reference and educational tool for students, researchers, anglers, and naturalists. Its primary utility is the preliminary identification of Wisconsin fish species. The system is not a substitute for expert verification; definitive species confirmation for scientific or regulatory purposes requires consultation with a qualified ichthyologist.

Studies & Publications

1 publication

Peer-reviewed research associated with this app.

Development/Design Paper

A Photo-Based Computer System for Identifying Wisconsin Fishes

Lyons et al. (2011) · Fisheries

Describes the research-driven development of this app
New digital technologies provide fresh opportunities to address the challenging task of fish species identification. We have developed a photo-based computer system, in both website (http://wiscfish.org) and compact disk format, to help identify the fishes of Wisconsin. The system includes over 4,000 photos of 174 species. Three approaches are available for identifying species–traditional dichotomous keys, a multi-feature query tool, and a "mug shot" slide show. Also provided are quantitative and qualitative data on the distinguishing characteristics of each species, comparisons among similar-appearing species, a searchable and sortable list of the fishes of the state, illustrations of morphological features commonly used in identification, and an illustrated glossary. We describe the structure and function of the Wisconsin system and provide suggestions on photography, system design, programming, and testing for those contemplating developing their own computer-based identification system. The Wisconsin system took substantial time and expense to develop, but the results appear worth the effort, as initial use of the system has been high and feedback positive.
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In the Media

Fish ID

The University of Wisconsin Center for Limnology, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Institute developed a fish identification tool enabling users to carry 174 Wisconsin fish in their pocket through a mobile app. The downloadable application allows users to identify Wisconsin fish wherever they are in the field. The collaborative project makes comprehensive fish identification accessible to anglers and naturalists statewide.

WiscRead article

Free Mobile Wisconsin Fish Identification Tools Now Available

Wisconsin Sea Grant and partners released a free Android and iOS app allowing users to identify 174 Wisconsin fish species, making comprehensive fish identification tools portable and accessible. According to the announcement, "Exactly 174 Wisconsin fish can now fit into your pocket" without being wet or smelly. Users can visit https://www.seagrant.wisc.edu/fish-id/ to download the identification tool.

WiscRead article

WI Fish ID

Free

iOS