Scientists are to "barcode" every species on Earth, starting with birds and fish and recording details in their genetic make-up that can be used to tell one life form from another.

At the cost of about �1 ($1.80) per genetic test, species will be analysed to obtain their barcode information. The data will then be transfered into a giant database which the Consortium for the Barcode of Life hopes can be used to link off to all the knowledge acquired by science on particular organisms.

Just as we Google a species name to find pictures or a description of an individual insect, the time may come when we have mobile computers that can read off barcodes and access species information in the field, making it easier to recognise species in the field.

However, not all of the science community shares the enthusiasm of the barcoders.

Some researchers doubt that the approach will prove as reliable in distinguishing species as is claimed.

Via BBC News.