Actions4
Overview
This node integrates with the BOLD (Barcode of Life Data) system, a DNA barcode reference library. It allows users to retrieve statistical data related to biodiversity records from BOLD's public API. Specifically, the "Stat" resource with the "Get" operation fetches statistics filtered by various criteria such as taxon names, geographic locations, institutions, and more.
Common scenarios for this node include:
- Researchers or biodiversity analysts wanting to gather summary statistics about DNA barcode records filtered by specific taxa or regions.
- Environmental scientists tracking specimen counts or genetic diversity metrics across different projects or institutions.
- Bioinformatics workflows that require automated retrieval of biodiversity statistics for further analysis or reporting.
Example use case: Fetching statistics on specimens collected in Canada and Alaska for the taxonomic groups Aves and Reptilia.
Properties
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Additional Fields | Optional filters to refine the statistics query. 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 | Taxon name or pipe-separated list of taxa (e.g., `Aves |
Output
The node outputs an array of JSON objects representing the retrieved statistics from the BOLD API. The exact structure depends on the API response but generally includes statistical summaries related to the specified filters.
If the resource is "stats" and operation is "get", the output JSON contains statistical data relevant to the requested parameters.
No binary data output is produced by this node.
Dependencies
- This node requires internet access to call the public BOLD API endpoints.
- No authentication credentials are required since it uses public API endpoints.
- The node relies on n8n's HTTP request helper to perform GET requests.
Troubleshooting
- Empty or no results: Ensure that the filter fields (e.g., BINs, Geography, Taxon) are correctly formatted and correspond to existing data in BOLD. Using incorrect or misspelled values may yield empty responses.
- Network errors or timeouts: Verify network connectivity and that the BOLD API endpoint (
http://www.boldsystems.org/index.php/API_Public/stats) is reachable. - Invalid parameter format: Parameters must be pipe-separated strings where applicable. Incorrect formatting can cause the API to reject the request or return unexpected results.
- Unexpected API changes: Since the node depends on an external public API, any changes in the BOLD API could affect functionality. Check the BOLD API documentation if issues arise.