Challenges in developing multi-species anatomy ontologies

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Revision as of 21:29, 5 November 2008 by Wasila (talk | contribs) (Representing taxonomically variable part_of relationships for an entity)

Representing taxonomically variable part_of relationships for an entity

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An entity may have taxonomically variable part_of relationships. For example, vertebra 1 may or may not be part_of the Weberian apparatus. (The Weberian apparatus is an anatomical cluster consisting of the first four vertebrae (additional vertebra in some taxa) and associated structures which connect the gas bladder to the inner ear. It is diagnostic of the Otophysi (Cypriniformes, Characiformes, Gymnotiformes, Siluriformes). Some species have vertebra 5 and/or 6 as part of Weberian apparatus). How to represent taxonomically variable part_of information in a multi-species ontology?