The online taxonomic identification system for the genus Paris combines traditional morphologic classification methods and machine learning algorithms. The system is used for the taxonomic assessment of unidentified Paris specimens, rather than as a universal classification tool. The system differs from common software like morphological color and flower recognition, that is . System users are expected to possess some experience and basic knowledge of Paris morphology and anatomy. The accurate classification of Paris species is challenging. It is hoped that the system will serve as an auxiliary tool during the identification of medicinal herbs, and efforts will be made to improve and upgrade the system in the future.

Special Note: This system is for non-commercial purposes. The high-resolution images in the system were obtained from the Plant Photo Bank of China, Chinese Field Herbarium, and Bing. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the authors of these resources!

Due to the current paucity of specimen information (lack of sufficient taxonomic features for machine learning), the system currently only supports the taxonomic identification of 15 species and six varieties, as shown in the following table:

To ensure accurate identification and to enhance the user experience, the following instructions and precautions are provided:

1. To ensure accurate identification, the specimen must belong to the genus Paris.The Knowing Paris polyphylla section provides the overall morphological characteristics of the genus in detail,long with a representative and annotated diagram of a Paris specimen.
2. Basic taxonomic and anatomic knowledge are helpful for accurately assessing specimen characteristics.The Taxonomic Knowledge of the Genus Paris section will explain the potential states of specific morphological features, such as the variety of types of leaf shape found in the genus, along with corresponding diagrams for clarity.
3. Use theidentification system,fill in the questionnaire correctly.The identification system is a collection of 31 questions that assess seven major categories of characteristics, including specimen collection site and characteristics of stems, leaves, sepals, flowers, fruits, and seeds.Users that lack taxonomic knowledge of the genus Paris can complete the identification system questionnaire by referring to the Taxonomic Knowledge of the Genus Parissection.In addition, a default value is set for each question in the questionnaire, and users are allowed to skip questions if they are unable to assess the taxonomic features of a specific organ decisively.
4. Submit the questionnaire to obtain identification results. Once users complete the questionnaire, they should click on thesubmit button at the bottom of theidentification system page to jump to the results page. After 1-2 seconds, the system will provide the three most likely species, along with species descriptions and the relative predicted probabilities of each. Users can then determine the species identity of their specimen(s) by considering the full morphologic descriptions of the most likely species.