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Data guidelines

Guidelines on Biological Nomenclature

Arthur D Chapman et al.
Environmental Resources Information Network
Department of the Environment and Heritage, 2002


About the Guidelines

Biological nomenclature is a tool that enables people to communicate about plants and animal without confusion. For example, a Magpie in Europe is different from a Magpie in Australia, but Gymnorhina tibicen refers to just one of them and is unambiguous. On the other hand there is no difference between a Magpie-lark, a Murray Magpie or a Peewee - they all refer to the same bird.

Download the Guidelines

This document is available as a PDF file. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer to view it.

If you are unable to access this document, please contact the Department of the Environment and Heritage to organise a suitable alternative format.

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