Here is a really nice paper which shows how these data can contribute to science. In this case the authors talk about leaf hoppers, but the findings really apply to any plant or animal. www.frontiersin.org/journals/env...

I use it to document sightings of critters as I explore the Mojave Desert - I especially focus on insects. The data are useful in documenting the biodiversity of the areas I manage as a Wildlife Biologist for the Bureau of Land Management. It is also a great place to make professional connections.