Actions4
Overview
This node integrates with the BOLD (Barcode of Life Data) system, a DNA barcode reference library. It allows users to retrieve specimen data from BOLD by specifying various filters such as Barcode Index Numbers, datasets, geographic locations, and taxonomic groups. This is useful for researchers or bioinformaticians who want to query detailed specimen information for biodiversity studies, taxonomy, or ecological research.
For example, a user can fetch specimen records filtered by specific Barcode Index Numbers or geographic regions to analyze species distribution or genetic diversity.
Properties
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Additional Fields | Optional filters to refine the specimen data retrieval. Includes: |
| - BINs | Pipe-separated list of Barcode Index Numbers (e.g., `BOLD:AAA5125 |
| - Container | Pipe-separated list of datasets or projects (e.g., `SSBAA |
| - Geography | Pipe-separated list of geographical names for countries and province/states (e.g., `Canada |
| - IDs | Pipe-separated list of process or sample identifiers (e.g., `ACRJP618-11 |
| - Institutions | Pipe-separated list of institutions (e.g., `Biodiversity Institute of Ontario |
| - Researchers | Pipe-separated list of researchers (e.g., `Thibaud Decaens |
| - Taxon | A taxon name or pipe-separated list of taxa (e.g., `Aves |
Output
The node outputs an array of JSON objects representing specimen records retrieved from the BOLD API. The structure corresponds to the bold_records.records field returned by the API when querying the "specimen" resource. Each record contains detailed specimen metadata such as identifiers, taxonomy, collection details, and associated barcodes.
No binary data output is produced by this node.
Dependencies
- Requires internet access to call the public BOLD API endpoints.
- No explicit API key or authentication is required as per the code.
- Uses HTTP GET requests with query parameters based on user input.
- No additional n8n credentials or environment variables are needed.
Troubleshooting
- Empty results: If no records are returned, verify that the filter values (e.g., BINs, geography, taxon) are correctly formatted and exist in the BOLD database.
- Network errors: Ensure the node has internet connectivity and the BOLD API endpoint (
http://www.boldsystems.org/index.php/API_Public/specimen) is reachable. - Invalid parameters: Passing unsupported or malformed filter strings may cause the API to return errors or empty responses. Use pipe-separated lists without extra spaces.
- API changes: Since the node relies on a public API, any changes to the BOLD API endpoints or response format could break functionality.