Obis: A Regional Biogeographic Data Resource for Applications and Modeling

Title:  OBIS: A Regional Biogeographic Data Resource for Applications and Modeling

Format: Oral

AUTHORS:

Mark D. Fornwall. Biological Informatics Program, United States Geological Survey; 808 984 3724; Mark_Fornwall@usgs.gov

Philip Goldstein. University of Colorado at Boulder; 303 887 6043; Philip.Goldstein@colorado.edu

Mary Kennedy. Fisheries and Oceans Canada; 902 426 3263; Mary.Kennedy@dfo-mpo.gc.ca 

Presenter:  Philip Goldstein

Abstract:  The Ocean Biogeographic Information System, (OBIS) is a marine biogeographic data asset that contains biological occurrence data that are taxonomically, spatially and temporally resolved.  Coordinated by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange’s International OBIS Project Office, members of the OBIS network collaborate with data providers to apply international data terminology that renders the data interoperable both internally and with other data resources. Combined OBIS Canada and OBIS-USA provide high-quality, open access to nearly 8.5 million records including more than 80,000 different taxa from Canadian and US marine waters. Each individual dataset is documented using the FGDC (Federal Geographic Data Committee) or GCMD metadata content standard, and essential aspects of CF (Climate & Forecast) metadata conventions and awareness of ISO metadata are also addressed.

This presentation briefly summarizes the OBIS data process; the nature and the role of standards in OBIS; goals for data quality, suitability for use, richness of detail and extensibility; and describes strategies and technologies for data analysis and integration with in situ data and applications.

Student Presenter:  No