Supplementary metadata tables should be provided to explain codes used in data tables used to describe samples and experimental variables. Supplementary metadata tables or text should also record additional experimental detail not recorded in the methods metadata template.
Here are some typical examples of how to present these metadata. Tables should be included in data packages as .csv files.
Guidance on variable names and descriptions should be taken from other ESS-DIVE data formats where available, for example, the Sample ID and Metadata Reporting Format.
The requirement for methods supplement tables or text documents will depend on the experimental setup. Where available and appropriate consider including the following information in a gas exchange data package: biome, ecosystem type, climate, local seasonality, timing of measurements relative to the growing season, data time zone and relationship with solar noon, environmental conditions at time of measurement, soil type, canopy exposure, canopy height and depth, terrain, aspect, seed provenance, genetic or cultivar details, pot size, leaf age classes, instrument configuration and measurement scripts.
Metadata variable
Format
Description
Example
speciesCode
Free text
Code used to identify species in data tables
JUOC
species
Free text
Full species name and subspecies if applicable
Juniperus occidentalis
genotype
Free text
Identified genotype or mutant
citation
Free text
Reference for species authority
Hook.
Metadata variable
Format
Description
Example
siteIdentifier
Free text
Plot or plant within this experiment for which position is being reported
Plot07
longitude
Decimal degrees
Longitude
-122.18877
latitude
Decimal degrees
Latitude
46.197905
elevation
Meters above sea level
Elevation of location
2155