Wednesday, November 18, 2015

App Review: LeafSnap

LEAFSNAP is a comprehensive field guide app focusing on tree species and their leaves.
Developed by researchers at Columbia University, University of Maryland, and Smithsonian Institution, the free app includes high-resolution images of leaves, flowers, fruits, petioles, seeds, and bark to help with tree identification. An onscreen ruler, color guide, and leaf pattern legend is useful in leaf identification.
The Browse section allows users to search for a particular tree and organize trees by common or scientific name. Users can also switch among the leaf mode and other views.
Using location software and mapping tools, the app will identify trees in your area. However this feature is only effective in some areas.
Users can take photos of leaves and create their own database of leaf photos for quick reference. In addition, the app uses visual recognition software to help identify trees based on photographs of their leaves.
Librarians will find this app to be a great addition to their science app collection. Both iPhone and iPad versions are available.

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