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Getting Started with CulicidaeLab

Welcome to CulicidaeLab, your comprehensive mobile application for mosquito species identification and disease information. This guide will help you get started with using the app effectively.

What is CulicidaeLab?

CulicidaeLab is a scientific mobile application designed to help users identify mosquito species using artificial intelligence and learn about mosquito-borne diseases. The app combines cutting-edge machine learning with comprehensive educational content to support both citizen science and public health awareness.

Key Features

  • AI-Powered Identification: Use your phone's camera to identify mosquito species instantly
  • Species Gallery: Browse detailed information about dangerous mosquito species
  • Disease Information: Learn about diseases transmitted by mosquitoes
  • Interactive Map: View mosquito activity data from around the world
  • Multi-language Support: Available in English, Spanish, and Russian

System Requirements

Android Devices

  • Operating System: Android 5.0 (API Level 21) or newer
  • RAM: Minimum 3 GB (4 GB+ recommended for optimal performance)
  • Storage: At least 300 MB of free space
  • Camera: Required for mosquito identification
  • Internet: Required for map features and observation submission

iOS Devices

  • Operating System: iOS 12.0 or newer
  • RAM: Minimum 3 GB (4 GB+ recommended)
  • Storage: At least 300 MB of free space
  • Camera: Required for mosquito identification
  • Internet: Required for map features and observation submission

Installation

From App Stores

  1. Android: Search for "CulicidaeLab" in Google Play Store
  2. iOS: Search for "CulicidaeLab" in Apple App Store
  3. Tap "Install" or "Get" to download the app
  4. Wait for installation to complete

First Launch

When you first open CulicidaeLab: 1. The app will load the AI model (this may take a few seconds) 2. You'll see the home screen with navigation options 3. Grant camera and location permissions when prompted 4. Choose your preferred language from the settings menu

App Navigation

CulicidaeLab uses a bottom navigation bar with five main sections:

🏠 Home

  • Welcome screen with feature overview
  • Quick access to all app functions
  • App information and disclaimers

📷 Classification

  • Take or select photos of mosquitoes
  • Get instant AI-powered species identification
  • View confidence scores and detailed results
  • Browse mosquito species information
  • Search and filter species
  • Learn about habitat and distribution

🏥 Diseases

  • Explore mosquito-borne diseases
  • Understand symptoms and prevention
  • Learn about disease vectors

🗺️ Map

  • View global mosquito activity
  • See observation data from other users
  • Explore geographic distribution patterns

Language Settings

CulicidaeLab supports multiple languages to serve users worldwide:

Changing Language

  1. Tap the language icon (🌐) in the top-right corner of any screen
  2. Select your preferred language from the dropdown menu:
  3. English: Full feature support
  4. Español: Complete Spanish translation
  5. Русский: Complete Russian translation
  6. The app will immediately switch to your selected language

Language Features

  • All text content is translated
  • Species and disease information in your chosen language
  • Localized date and number formats
  • Right-to-left text support where applicable

Permissions

CulicidaeLab requires certain permissions to function properly:

Required Permissions

Camera Access - Purpose: Take photos of mosquitoes for identification - When requested: First time you try to use the camera feature - Impact if denied: Cannot take new photos, but can still select from gallery

Photo Library Access - Purpose: Select existing photos for identification - When requested: First time you try to select from gallery - Impact if denied: Cannot select existing photos, but can still use camera

Location Services - Purpose: Add location data to observations and view relevant map data - When requested: When submitting observations or accessing map features - Impact if denied: Cannot submit observations with location data

Managing Permissions

If you initially denied permissions, you can enable them later:

Android: 1. Go to Settings > Apps > CulicidaeLab > Permissions 2. Toggle on the permissions you want to grant

iOS: 1. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > [Permission Type] 2. Find CulicidaeLab and toggle it on

Getting Help

If you need assistance while using CulicidaeLab:

In-App Help

  • Look for info icons (ℹ️) throughout the app for contextual help
  • Check the FAQ section for common questions
  • Review troubleshooting guides for technical issues

Support Resources

  • Documentation: Comprehensive guides available at [documentation link]
  • Community: Join discussions with other users and researchers
  • Contact: Reach out to the development team for technical support

Educational Use Disclaimer

CulicidaeLab is designed for educational and research purposes. While the AI identification system is highly accurate, it should not replace professional medical advice or official health guidance. Always consult healthcare professionals and public health authorities for medical concerns related to mosquito-borne diseases.

Next Steps

Now that you're familiar with the basics, explore these guides to make the most of CulicidaeLab:

Welcome to the world of citizen science and mosquito research with CulicidaeLab!