Multi-taxa database data dictionary

The conservation of biological resources relies on the successful management of ecological and physiological research data. The Western Ecological Research Center of the U.S. Geological Survey is working with researchers, land managers, and decision makers from non-government organizations and city, county, state, and federal resource agencies to develop data management methods. Access to the most current and applicable research data available in making sound decisions to conserve species diversity is foundational. We sought to accomplish several goals in developing the data management strategy used in the Multi-Taxa database. Data persistence and availability are primary goals of well-developed databases. By documenting and sharing the structure and definitions of Multi-Taxa database, we hope to further the successful management of these crucial data.