There is no standard system.    Everyone sets up their data the way they want
to.

"Mary E. Canada" wrote:

> I am trying to understand how one goes about cataloging a collection and
> have a question for the list.  Is there an "official" numbering system that
> is agreed upon by all or does everyone just make up a database for their
> particular collection?  From what I have read in the archives, my
> understanding is that each individual creates his/her own unique set of
> alpha/numerical values.  Is there a reason that these numbering systems are
> not standardized?  I would think that a standard numbering system would
> eliminate many of the problems encountered when an individual's data key to
> the collection is lost or inadvertently thrown away when the collection
> is passed along to others.  Since taxonomy is so precise, it seems only
> logical, to me at least, that a systematic numbering system could be created
> and accepted as an international standard as well. I know that I am probably
> taking a simplistic view of the problem, but I am baffled and confused by
> this lack of a standard system.
>
> Thank you for any help and clarification you can give me on this issue.
> Mary Canada

--
Jim and Bobbi Cordy
Specializing in Self Collected Caribbean Species
Merritt Island Florida

SPACE COAST SHELL FESTIVAL
"King Neptunes Shell Palace"
January 18-20,2002