Abstract
Geographic information system (GIS) tools allow the visualization of research data that have a strong spatial component. Currently, several proprietary desktop GIS tools are available that enable researchers to generate maps and perform spatial analysis. However, these packages often require licensing agreements and do not provide specific options that enable rapid and uncomplicated analysis of biological diversity data. As an alternative, publicly available GIS applications that perform basic GIS as well as specialized functions are available. For example, DIVA–GIS was developed specifically to allow analysis of genebank and herbarium databases as well as to assess genetic, ecological, and geographic patterns in the distribution of crops and wild species. It is potentially useful for researchers who do not have the time to learn how to use proprietary GIS software, or who cannot justify purchasing a license to perform very basic GIS operations like creating and modifying maps. This presentation describes the basic features as well as some advanced functionality of DIVA–GIS and other publicly available GIS applications.
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