Hello everyone, Recently, I noticed that some observations identified only to the genus level are marked as Research Grade, while others are marked as Needs ID. I have read the documentation, but I could not find a clear explanation for why this happens. Could someone please explain: Why do so…

Someone has marked the observation “as good as it can be” [image] This results in RG status at Genus level. This is usually done by IDers when there are multiple possible species and the photo(s) don’t provide enough detail to distinguish between similar species. Very common with arthropods, fu…

This link gives members of Genus Oliga that are “Needs ID” https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/identify?verifiable=true&taxon_id=133344&lrank=genus&place_id=any And this one https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/identify?quality_grade=research&verifiable=true&taxon_id=133344&lrank=genus&pl…

Question regarding Research Grade status at the genus level

General

milamb January 24, 2026, 11:29pm 4

@jgw_atx thank you for clarifying, that makes much more sense now!

@dlevitis I also appreciate your explanation about filters — very helpful!

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"Research grade" above species level General	15	519	July 15, 2025
Genus Level ID as Research Grade General	9	1600	June 17, 2020
RG at genus level Bug Reports	3	921	May 13, 2020
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Question regarding Research Grade status at the genus level

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