Standard for Acoustics Metadata for PAM published

["Holger Klinck " <>]

Hi all,

Happy to report that the standard ASA/ANSI S3/SC1.7-2026 "Standard for Acoustics Metadata for PAM" has been published.

This standard defines a unified framework for documenting metadata associated with passive acoustic recordings and associated analysis outputs, promoting consistency and precision. It encompasses key aspects of acoustic data collection, including instrument deployments, deployment locations, configurations, and calibration details, and supports both stationary and mobile platforms with single or multiple sensors. Additionally, the standard provides mechanisms for detailed documentation of detected sounds, offering structured representations of taxa and flexible annotation levels—from simple presence over specified time intervals to precise timing of individual calls. Spatial data, including sound source location and direction, is also supported, with provisions for multiple coordinate reference systems. By standardizing the capture and preservation of information related to data collection, analysis, and quality control, this framework enhances reproducibility and facilitates data integration across studies. It enables researchers to combine results from diverse analyses, improving the interoperability, utility, and long-term value of acoustic data for ecological research and conservation efforts.

The ASA/ANSI standard can be purchased here: https://webstore.ansi.org/standards/asa/asaansis3sc12026. While the actual standard is unfortunately not freely accessible, we have prepared a Usage Scenarios document, which can be downloaded at no cost here: https://tethys.sdsu.edu/standards/ (scroll to the bottom of the page).

Lastly, a special shout-out to Marie Roch for leading this effort.

Best,

Holger

--
At the Yang Center, we work flexibly, and while it suits me to email now, I don’t anticipate a response outside your regular work hours. Thanks!
--
Dr. Holger Klinck
John W. Fitzpatrick Director
K. Lisa Yang Center for Conservation Bioacoustics
Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Cornell University

Faculty Fellow
Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future, Cornell University

Courtesy Professor
Marine Mammal Institute
Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences, Oregon State University

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