LSIDs (Life Science Identifiers) are used to provide a unique identifier for objects of interest in the life sciences. They facilitate useful transfer of data contained in XML files from one computer to another. When a computer receives data from two different sources, it can check the LSIDs and determine if both sets of data refer to the same object. LSIDs can also be used to help humans locate websites with information about the objects.
Implementation of LSIDs is in progress in Species File Software. The plan calls for eventual use of LSIDs for taxon names and taxon concepts; however, the only portion currently in progress is for scientific names. This means simple names at the rank of genus and higher, and binomial (including trinomial, etc.) names below the rank of genus. Protonyms may be given LSIDs at a later time.
At this time (June 19, 2011) tables are being added to all species file databases, but data are being added into those tables only after the tables are made active on a species file by species file basis. Activation will be done by the programming staff when requested by the database custodian. However, at this time the required software is under development and used only in an experimental database where it can be tested and debugged.