The Prometheus II Description Model: an objective approach to representing taxonomic descriptions

MacDonald, Sarah M; Raguenaud, Cedric; Pullan, Martin R; Kennedy, Jessie; Russell, Gordon; Watson, Mark F

Abstract

A model for improving the storage and communication of plant descriptions is presented. The model is flexible and yet reduces the ambiguity often present in text descriptions. The fundamental idea behind the model is the necessity for clear representation of the meaning of each term used within a description. The model therefore emphasises the assignment of definitions to all taxonomic terms used. This approach will eventually provide a more objective way of expressing plant descriptions that supports their comparison without making assumptions on the semantics of the terms used.

Citation

MacDonald, S. M., Raguenaud, C., Pullan, M. R., Kennedy, J., Russell, G., & Watson, M. F. The Prometheus II Description Model: an objective approach to representing taxonomic descriptions

• Working Paper Type: Working Paper
• Deposit Date: Oct 28, 2009
• Peer Reviewed: Not Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Database model; Taxonomic definitions; Plant descriptions; Specimen characterisation; Comparitive biology
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/id/eprint/3023
• Contract Date: Oct 28, 2009