Does it matter how GPS coordinates are reported in field biology - as in, is there a general preference between reporting GPS data using sexagesimal degrees (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) or decimal degrees (35.123456^o)?
The general consensus is that decimal degrees are preferrable, as their format are easier to interpret, to generalize and to format.
Dear Justin C. Hunt,
The way of reporting GPS coordinates primarily depends on what is the requested presentation format. Such a request commonly comes from a final user of data.
We may say latitude and longitude values look better in a (final) report when presented in arc degrees, minutes and seconds than given in decimal arc degrees. Besides, that way of presentation sometimes enables a faster insight into the related location on a map, if any.
However, you can also provide the coordinates in decimal arc degrees, of course, because decimal degrees are equaly used in praxis, no matter what application is it about.
So, neither of the two formats should be favored when it comes to reporting of GPS (GNSS) coordinates. Namely, what is most important is to provide coordinates that are accurate enough for a specific purpose.
Best regards!
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