Department of Fish and Game

BIOS

Citing BIOS Data Layers


When citing BIOS data layers, the following minimal information should be included:

  • The Title (name) of the data layer
  • The Originator (or contact) of the layer
  • The Publication Date of the layer
  • Where the layer was accessed from (BIOS)
  • When the layer was accessed

The Title, Originator, and Publication Date can all be found in the metadata for the data layer. This can be accessed in the BIOS Data Viewer either through the Metadata button on the right side on the toolbar, or in the Data Catalog tool by accessing the Layer Details for the layer, and then clicking on the "metadata" link.

The Originator will be listed in the Publication section of the metadata, if one exists. If there isn't an Originator, use the Primary Person listed in the Point of Contact section.

The format and style of the citation will vary depending on the context, but below are two examples:

APA style:

  • Gould, G. (2005, Jul. 12). California Red Tree Vole [ds33]. Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game. Biogeographic Information and Observation System (BIOS). Retrieved April 10, 2006 from http://bios.dfg.ca.gov

MLA style:

  • Gould, Gordon. "California Red Tree Vole [ds33]." 12 Jul 2005. Biogeographic Information and Observation System (BIOS). Calif. Dept. of Fish and Game. 10 Apr 2006, http://bios.dfg.ca.gov

Contact the BIOS Staff — if you have any questions.