Project summary
Towards large-scale biodiversity monitoring across Europe
BEAGLE (Biodiversity Methods for Advanced Monitoring at Large Scales) is a research project funded by Horizon Europe (Grant Agreement No. 101288886), launched in October 2026 and coordinated by Aarhus University. Bringing together 17 European partners, BEAGLE aims to develop a new generation of biodiversity monitoring methods across terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems.
BEAGLE aims to generate up to one billion biodiversity records by combining automated sensors, environmental DNA (eDNA), artificial intelligence, and citizen science. These data will be standardised and integrated into open, interoperable infrastructures to produce maps, indicators, and Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) that can support researchers, land managers, and public decision-makers.
Pl@ntNet’s role
As a key partner, Pl@ntNet will contribute to several major innovations within the project. BEAGLE will support the development of GeoPl@ntNet, extending Pl@ntNet from species identification to high-resolution mapping of habitat structure and condition by combining citizen observations, satellite data, and deep learning.
Pl@ntNet’s AI models will also be enhanced to analyse complex scenes, estimate vegetation cover, and quantify prediction uncertainty. The project will further strengthen citizen science across Europe through targeted campaigns and new approaches to long-term contributor engagement.
Open data for better biodiversity monitoring
Built around the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable), BEAGLE will make biodiversity data more accessible, interoperable, and reusable. By combining cutting-edge technologies with citizen participation, the project will strengthen biodiversity monitoring and support the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the EU Nature Restoration Regulation, and the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
BEAGLE News
BEAGLE: Where can I find more information about the project?
The BEAGLE project will officially begin in October 2026. The official BEAGLE website, which will serve as the central hub for the main resources produced by the consortium, is not yet online.
Project details are available on the European Commission’s CORDIS platform, which provides information on the project’s objectives, partners, key achievements, and final reports. The dedicated BEAGLE CORDIS page is available HERE.
You can also follow BEAGLE’s activities through its social media: LinkedIn
Key partners
