Diatoms of North AmericaThis project is a model for ensuring taxonomic consistency across analysts by 1) use of Battarbee Chambers, 2) randomizing sample assignment to analysts, 3) developing a pre-voucher flora, 4) coordinating analysts through weekly webinars, 5) ensuring 20% repeat counts (10% and self 10% cross QA/QC), 6) documenting taxon names and sources, and 7) thorough project documentation.
1) Sediments from 106 lakes in the northeast were processed to produce quantitative slides, through the use of Battarbee Chambers.
2) The samples, along with 6 replicate samples, were randomized for assignment to 3 analysts.
3) A pre-voucher flora based on over 4000 digital images was developed to represent the taxonomic diversity and morphologic range of species.
4) Seven weekly webinars were held for analysts to discuss problematic taxa and highlight new taxa added to the flora as they were encountered. Newly encountered taxa were imaged and incorporated into a weekly updated flora. We led a workshop with the analysts and other interested experts at the Diatom Herbarium at the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia on March 27-30, 2018 to assign species names and resolve difficult species boundaries in this project.
5) A rigorous QA/QC procedure documents analyst self consistency and cross analyst consistency.
6, 7) The flora, taxon names, references and R scripts documenting the project and preparing the data for analysis are available at the INSTAAR link.
