Biological effects data template (prototype)

As part of the CONTRAST project’s Task 6.3 on enabling ease of data transfer of biological effects assessments to European data repositories (and Subtask 6.3.1. on data management towards the harmonisation of European data repositories), a template (Excel file) for recording biological effects data obtained from field samples collected within the CONTRAST project was created (D6.1). The European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet) is proposed as the official data repository for the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD); however, EMODnet Chemistry does not currently accept biological effects data and this work also aims to provide a means of evaluating the feasibility of expanding EMODnet Chemistry to such data. The main EU organisations that do accept biological effects (bioassay and/or biomarker) data include the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), UN Environment Programme–Mediterranean Action Plan Information and Communication Activity Centre (UNEP–MAP INFO RAC under the IMAP Info System), and Norman Network (NORMAN)). After comparing the existing metadata/data requirements of EMODnet Chemistry (e.g. Common Data Index (CDI)) with those of NORMAN, ICES, and UNEP–MAP INFO RAC, the template was developed using ICES’s template for contaminants and biological effects as the skeleton. Mandatory fields required by EMODnet were mapped to the skeleton and any missing fields were added. Relevant fields for biomarkers and bioassays in the templates of UNEP–MAP INFO RAC and NORMAN were also mapped, and missing fields were incorporated into the template if considered relevant to CONTRAST. Standardised controlled vocabularies (full names of terms, e.g. field sampling instruments, with associated codes used for indexing, annotating, and searching for data) of the UK’s Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) Vocabulary Server (NVS, https://vocab.nerc.ac.uk/), which is used by EMODnet, were compared with those of ICES (https://vocab.ices.dk/) and the most appropriate vocabulary for a given metadata field was selected for use in the template. Drop down lists (DDLs) of vocabulary terms were created for all metadata fields with a vocabulary list to help the user fill out the template. Each metadata field was assigned as being mandatory or optional for filling out, and instructions and information were also written for each field to help the user complete the template. A “READ ME” worksheet was also included with general instructions on what and what not to do to guide the user.