Classes used in the SPIRE species observation schema

Below are the important classes we are using in the species observation schema developed as part of our Semantic Web project.

Observation Dataset

This represents a dataset composed of field observation of biological entities. The associated properties are project-level descriptors such as sponsoring organization, dates of study, dataset purpose, and general location.

Sample Unit

This records the visit of a field observer to a particular place at a particular time. A plot is an example of a Sample Unit. Important properties include location and date, and additional properties may include items such as the set of taxa under observation, a list of observers, and methodology

Sample Aggregation

This is a collected set of Sample Units. A Sample Aggregation can represent plots that are within some nested sampling design, for instance points on a line transect. It is not necessary for a Sample Unit to be within a Sample Aggregation to describe observations.

Observation

In a dataset, this is the basic entity being observed and its associated properties. Examples include a species and an associated count, or an individual with a list of size measurements. Associated properties include unit of measure, measurement value, entity type, and entity name

Biological Entity

A Biological Entity is a biological thing that has persistance over time. Examples include a population (e.g. of weeds, or a seabird colony), an individual, or a biologically-created structure (e.g. a nest).

Biological Entity State

The state of a biological entity at a time and space. Examples include phenology, population size, or breeding status. Associated properties include location, date and time, as well as the characteristics under measurement, such as phenological state.

Field Session

An event where observers go into the field to monitor some environmental characteristic. Associated properties include location, date and time, observers, and observer affiliations