Image Integrity and Visualization Policy

Scope

This policy applies to GIS maps, heatmaps, time-series plots, scatterplots, charts, microscopy or laboratory images where relevant, field photographs, and other visual materials.

Scientific Integrity

Image processing is permitted when it is applied appropriately and does not obscure, introduce, remove, or misrepresent scientific information. Authors must not selectively manipulate data points or graphical elements to create a misleading result.

Permitted Processing

Global brightness, contrast, or similar adjustments are acceptable when applied uniformly to an entire image and when they do not alter the interpretation of the underlying data. Material processing is described in the figure legend or Methods.

GIS and Data Visualization

• Maps retain necessary legends, scale bars, north arrows, coordinate information, and other interpretive elements.
• Authors report data sources, date/version, spatial and temporal resolution, projection or coordinate reference system where relevant, and software used.
• Duplicating or relabeling the same image to represent different datasets is not acceptable.

Field Photographs

Photographs accurately represent the documented setting and are not staged or altered in a way that changes scientific meaning. Identifiable individuals require appropriate consent for publication.

Raw Files

Where an image-integrity concern arises, authors may be asked to provide original image files or underlying data sufficient to assess the issue. Failure to provide reasonable supporting material may affect editorial decisions.