The OBIS schema is a list of data fields with names, descriptions, and format notes. It is an extension to the Darwin Core Version 2 standard. When the OBIS portal sends queries out to its distributed data contributors, the portal will request data using these fields and needs to have data returned using these fields. The DiGIR software provides the programming to turn an OBIS query into a search on your particular database, but in order to install DiGIR you need to "map" the OBIS schema fields to the fields in your database. Download the following files for details.
- The OBIS Schema Version 1.1: Definition of the Data Standard
- Implementation Notes
- OBIS Schema 1.1 (xsd file)
If you plan on sharing your data through a dynamic DiGIR provider, standardisation will be achieved automatically. If you plan to share your data by sending us a file, you can use the Excel spreadsheet downloadable here to assist in maintaining compatibility with the OBIS Schema.
OBIS Schema data types
The Schema indicates the data type for each field. These are general categories, and your particular database software may use different terms. Where there are additional restrictions placed on the data format, this is indicated in the >Description.
Compatibility with Darwin Core
The OBIS Data Schema was built as an extension to the Darwin Core version 2 standard (Darwin Core Version 2 standard). The Darwin Core is a standard that is used by the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and others. The OBIS Schema also contains some additional fields for holding information that the Darwin Core does not handle. So, if you implement the OBIS Schema in your database, you will be compliant with both the Darwin Core standard and the OBIS standard.
By keeping the OBIS Standard strictly compliant with Darwin Core, some 'legacy' fields are created (such as County or Elevation): in order to be compliant, the OBIS Schema must allow all Darwin Core fields to be entered.
