Biological Observations Working Group (BIOWG)

Key objectives

This working group will focus on developing rigorous and operationally focused standard specifications and operating procedures for the generation of quantitative and qualitative biological data products, so that it may be integrated into current ocean observation programmes and modelling efforts.

Its objectives are:

• Agree on an initial set of SOPs (Standard Operating Procedure) and data standards for the observation of life via eDNA and multi-omics protocols.
• The standardisation and SOPs for Imaging and evaluating how these data may contribute the most effectively to EOVs (Essential Ocean Variable) and EBVs (Essential Biodiversity Variables).
• Formulate and implement recommendations for new sensors and autonomous platform development and integration with existing approaches.
• Continuously liaise with the Biological and Ecosystems EOV Panel (GOOS) and the EBV development groups (GEO BON) and seek the endorsement of SOPs by targeting these EVs.
• Frugal science approaches will be promoted as long-term funding for observation, which is very difficult to obtain, and thus a reduced cost would significantly improve our ability to maintain long-term, well-replicated observatories.
• Develop structured obsolescence and on-boarding process for all technologies, methods, and operational models.