Representing complex phenotypes
From HAO Wiki
We can represent many character states using Entity-Quality syntax:
- head (the entity) black (the quality).
- leg long
- fore wing hyaline
- etc.
Or E-Q-E syntax where appropriate:
- accessory gland separated_from ductus ejaculatorius
These can be composed easily using exisiting tools (e.g., Phenote).
How do we represent complex phenotypes/character states, though?
- face black except for whitish spot medially
- mesoscutellum orange and rugulose medially, becoming black laterally and on anterior and posterior edges
- dorsal axillar area setose, with elongate setae curved posteriorly; this could be represented as a post-compositional statement: setae (part of dorsal axillar area) elongate, curved posterior (since there is now anatomical structure in HAO called "dorsal axillar area setae" and we don't want to add it)
