AndreaBozzo/ceres-open-data-index huggingface dataset:
Infaunal abundances from mud samples taken from the Outer Ards penninsula (Northern Ireland) in 2014 and 2016 as part of an assessment of the Modiolus modiolus reefs

This dataset contains information on infaunal abundance and biomass from sediment grabs taken off the coast of the Ards Penninsula, Northern Ireland in 2014 - 2016. This survey was carried out to contribute to a larger project to assess the status and extent of Modiolus modiolus biogenic reefs in this area. The biogenic reefs were in an unfavourable condition even though this Annex 1 habitat was the reason for the designation of the Strangford Lough Special Area of Conservation (SAC). This survey was carried out on board the RV Corystes using a 0.1m2 day grab. The infaunal communities were identified and weighed, particle size analysis and carbon - nitrogen analysis were carried out on the samples. In total there were 36 samples taken (only 30 could be analysed for infauna). The most abundant species recorded was the tunicate Dendrodoa grossularia and the most frequently recorded species was the mollusc Leptochiton asellus.
"This dataset contains information on infaunal abundance and biomass from sediment grabs taken off the coast of the Ards Penninsula, Northern Ireland in 2014 - 2016 as part of a larger more comprehensive project. The project was aiming to assess the status and extent of Modiolus modiolus biogenic reefs in the area. The biogenic reefs were in an unfavourable condition even though this Annex 1 habitat was the reason for the designation of the Strangford Lough Special Area of Conservation (SAC). There is a plan in place to restore these reefs to a favourable conservation Status and this project will provide information on this area. 
These surveys were carried out on board the RV Corystes using a 0.1m2 day grab (see below). In total there were 36 samples taken (only 30 could be analysed for infauna). Samples were analysed for infaunal communities, Particle Size Analysis (PSA) and Carbon - Nitrogen content. The survey in 2014 was carried out on 2014-09-04 near Craigbrain and Burial Island and in 2016 the survey was carried out on 2016-02-01 - 2016-02-02. The methodology for the day grab is detailed below.
• A 0.1m2 day grab was used to take a sample of the sediment - associated infaunal communities.
• When the sample reaches the deck, a 250ml sample is taken for PSA and a further 25ml is taken for C - N analysis. The rest of the sample is carefully sieved to reveal any infauna.
• Fixed Formalin (4% buffered formaldehyde) is added to the remains of the sample and these are placed in labelled buckets.
• The samples are sent to accredited taxonomic laboratories were they are identified to as high a level as possible and weighed.
"
EPSG Geodetic Parameter Dataset

This classification was produced using approach similar to the used by BGS in creation of seabed sediments maps. The interpretation used data from surface grab samples and surface sub-samples from vibro core samples. Each sample was colour coded following detailed particle size analysis based on Folk classification. This data was incorporated within GIS and interpreted together with multibeam backscatter and shaded relief. This exercise allowed interpolation between areas where sample data was absent. Moreover, this interpretation was supported with video dive data. Thus, this study produced seabed sediment type facies interpretation for selected study areas that added more detail to the existing BGS maps. The original classes assigned to the data were translated to the EUNIS habitat classification system as part of the MESH Atlantic project.
Rocky shore algal data from North Adriatic Sea (Piran) in 2006

Benthic macrophyte samples were collected from 51 sites along the Slovenian rocky coast. The aim of the study was three-fold: (1) to select sampling points for a surveillance monitoring programme, (2) to confirm water body boundaries proposed by the Slovenian Ministry of Environment and Spatial Planning and (3) to assess the preliminary Ecological Status Classes (ESC) within the European Water Framework Directory.
Visual sightings from Song of the Whale 1993-2013

Databases of visual sightings from the IFAW Song of the Whale vessel from 1993 to 2013 were merged into one dataset. Attributes recorded in these databases may differ. Since GPS data would become too huge to effectively visualize online, every 10th record was extracted. All GPS data can be requested. Environmental attributes were recorded less frequently than the GPS data and not all GPS records get environmental attributes attached.
Garfish morphology in Adriatic Sea 2003-2007

Morphology for Garfish sampled in August of 2003., 2005. and 2007.
The population analysis, i.e. population dynamics, fisheries biology and exploitation of garfish, Belone belone (L.1761.), were done as a part of PhD thesis. All representative samples were collected from commercial catches (pures seine "Igličara") in the Middle eastern Adriatic Sea during the period from 2003 to 2009
Phytoplankton Monitoring at the Château du Taureau Station in the Western English Channel, from 2009 to 2011

The monitoring at the Château du Taureau station (north Brittany - France, Western English Channel) was designed to study the influence of trophic conditions on larval development of the invasive species Crepidula fornicata.
From 2009 to 2011, phytoplankton communities were monitored twice a month in the frame of a research work on Crepidula fornicata larvae. :1/  Microphytoplankton - Species abundances (according to Utermöhl method microphytoplankton abundances - number of cells per liter) ; 2/ Microphytoplankton - Species occurrences (20µm net haul, occurrence code : "1" for present).
Trawl-survey data in the central-eastern Adriatic Sea (Mediterranean) collected in 1957 and 1958

Between June 5th 1957 and July 4th 1958 a series of trawl-surveys were organised by the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (IOF, Croatia) in the Croatian channels around the Hvar Island (central-eastern Adriatic).
Tows were performed once a month in all of the 10 fixed stations, for a total of 120 hauls. Two motorboats were employed, “Bios” (300 HP; LOA = 26 m) and “Predvodnik” (200 HP; LOA = 19 m). A cotton bottom otter-trawl net was used (wing mesh-size: 57 mm; cod-end mesh-size: 22 mm; foot-rope length: 34 m; head-rope length: 28 m). Tow duration was one hour for all hauls. CPUE (n/h) indexes for 104 demersal species were recorded (6,718 records), as well as information on the sediment type at each station. Species synonymies were updated according to the modern nomenclature referring to the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS). Some species are grouped into multispecies categories that group taxonomically similar species, i.e. species of the same genus or family (e.g. Raja spp., Triglidae). Sediment samples were collected by means of the Peterson power shovel. The depth of each station was extracted from the EMODnet Digital Bathymetry.
WDC Shorewatch Sightings

DC Shorewatch collects on-effort cetacean sightings data from coastal waters across Scotland. Data is collected by trained volunteers from within local communities. As of 27th February, 2012, all sightings from 2011 will be live on the NBN. After this time, data will be uploaded quarterly.
WDC Shorewatch data is collected in order to provide basic year-round monitoring of cetacean populations and to promote community participation and stewardship of whales and dolphins in Scotland.

21 land based study platforms have been designated across Scotland: South Uist, Garrynamonie; South Uist, Kildonan Beach; Benbecula; North Uist; Berneray; Tiumpan Head, Isle of Lewis; Melvaig Inn; Rua Reidh Lighthouse; Strathy Point; Scrabster Lighthouse; Dunnet Head; Forse; Chanonry Point; North Kessock, WDC Dolphin and Seal Centre; Fort George; Spey Bay, WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre; Cullen Bay; Macduff Marine Aquarium; Fraserburgh, Museum of Scottish Lighthouses; St. Combs, RSPB Loch of Strathbeg and St Cyrus SNH Nature Reserve.

Visual observations 10 minute surveys across the entire study area were conducted from designated land-based platforms by teams of trained volunteer observers using 7 x 50 binoculars with internal compass and distance reticules. Observers alternated 4 minute binocular scans with 1 minute naked-eye scans of the survey area for 10 minutes. Observations were conducted not more often that once per hour and only in sea state 4 or less. Environmental data were collected before every survey. Effort data was recorded on each survey regardless of whether cetaceans were sighted. All cetaceans identified were recorded to lowest taxonomic level possible and an identification confidence percentage was recorded for all sightings.

Data collected was limited to designated sites so the data collection only covers specific areas of the Scottish coastline. Locations are marked as the site from which data was collected.

Survey activity and records have been collected from March to September 2011. Survey activity varies at each sites, with the aim of generating 60 watches per month. Cetaceans are not recorded during each watch or all each sites uniformly. There may be seasonal changes in occurrence but the dataset is not yet mature enough to understand these. All records have a date and time associated with them. Increased activity may coincide with the 'Big Shorewatch Weekend' held on 18 September 2011. 

All Shorewatch volunteers are trained and are provided with adequate support for us to be confident in the data. Data are maintained and collated by WDCS staff and volunteers, in which we have a high level of confidence.

WDC Shorewatch wishes to be made aware of this data being used or published for anything other than personal use. To report use of the Shorewatch data or for any additional information, please contact WDC Scottish Conservation Officer on shorewatch@whales.org.
The feeding ecology of Sphaeramia orbicularis (Pisces: Apogonidae) in the East Creek of Gazi Bay (Kenya) in August 1993

Dataset on length and weight measurements of Sphaeramia orbicularis, counts of potential epifauna prey items on seagrass, algae and rhizosphores, overview of the found food items in the stomachs and abundance data of other fish species caught in Gazi Bay in August 1993. The data were digitized by VLIZ from the original report: Mwamsojo, G.U.J. (1994). The feeding ecology of the chubby cardinalfish Sphaeramia orbicularis (Pisces: Apogonidae) in a tropical mangrove creek. MSc Thesis. University of Gent, Zoology Institute, Marine Biology Section: Gent. VI, 60 pp.
Samples of fish were taken during the day on 11/8/1993, 12/8/1993, 13/8/1993 and 18/8/1993, while night samples were collected on 18/8/1993. Sampling was done during low tide only. Ten fykenets with mesh size 18 mm stretched in the codend and 26 mm stretched near the mouth 0,864 m mouth opening and 1,765 m wing length and a dragnet with mesh size 20mm stretched, 2,356 m mouth opening and 5m wing length were used for catching fish. On average, 17,85m^2 and 87,5m^2 of the creek was sampled by fyke nets and dragnet respectively. Epifauna samples were collected by cutting the elevated stands of seagrass (Enhalus acoroides and Thalasodendron ciliatum), seaweeds (Halimeda opuntia, Sargassum binderi and Gracilaria crassa) and portions of rhizophores which are permanently submerged in the water. The roots were further divided into 3 sections of 10 cm long each. The bottom (0 - 10 cm) above the sediments, the middle (10 - 20 cm) and the upper section (20 - 30 cm). Plastic bags were used to cover the stands to prevent fast moving epifauna from escaping. The sampling spot (East Creek Gazi bay) was 450m from the lowest water level mark and 150m from the mouth of the creek.
MEDGULL_ANTWERPEN - Mediterranean gulls (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus, Laridae) breeding near Antwerp (Belgium)

MEDGULL_ANTWERPEN - Mediterranean gulls (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus, Laridae) breeding near Antwerp (Belgium) is a bird tracking dataset published by the Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO). It contains animal tracking data collected by the LifeWatch GPS tracking network for large birds (http://lifewatch.be/en/gps-tracking-network-large-birds) for the project/study MEDGULL_ANTWERPEN, using trackers developed by Ornitela (https://www.ornitela.com). The study has been operational since 2021. In total 4 individuals of Mediterranean gull (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus) have been tagged in their breeding area near the city of Antwerp (Belgium), mainly to study their habitat use and migration behaviour.
Data are automatically synced with Movebank and from there periodically archived on Zenodo (see https://github.com/inbo/bird-tracking).

This dataset was collected using infrastructure provided by INBO and funded by Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO) as part of the Belgian contribution to LifeWatch.

The DOI in the citation represents all versions. To find the DOI of the different versions, go to the Zenodo record.
Ophiuroidea distribution data from: Deep-sea fauna of European seas - an annotated species check-list of benthic invertebrates living deeper than 2000 m in the seas bordering Europe

An annotated check-list is given of Ophiuroidea species occurring deeper than 2000 m in the seas bordering Europe.
The check-list is based on published data. The check-list includes 75 species. For each species synonymy, data on localities in European seas and general species distribution are provided. Station data are presented separately in the present thematic issue.
North East Atlantic Ocean - Contaminants aggregated datasets 1966/2022 v2024

EMODnet Chemistry aims to provide access to marine chemistry datasets and derived data products concerning eutrophication, acidity and contaminants. The importance of the selected substances and other parameters relates to the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). This aggregated dataset contains all unrestricted EMODnet Chemistry data on potential hazardous substances, despite the fact that some data might not be related to pollution (e.g. collected by deep corer). Temperature, salinity and additional parameters are included when available. It covers the Northeast Atlantic Ocean (40W). Data were harmonised and validated by the '‘IFREMER / IDM / SISMER - Scientific Information Systems for the SEA’ in France.
The dataset contains water (profiles), sediment (profiles and timeseries) and biota (timeseries). The temporal coverage is 1974–2018 for water measurements, 1966–2020 for sediment measurements and 1979–2022 for biota measurements.
Regional datasets concerning contaminants are automatically harvested and the resulting collections are harmonised and validated using ODV Software and following a common methodology for all sea regions ( https://doi.org/10.6092/8b52e8d7-dc92-4305-9337-7634a5cae3f4 ). Parameter names are based on P01 vocabulary, which relates to BODC Parameter Usage Vocabulary and is available at: https://vocab.nerc.ac.uk/search_nvs/P01/ .
The harmonised dataset can be downloaded as as an ODV spreadsheet, which is composed of a metadata header followed by tab separated values. This spreadsheet can be imported into ODV Software for visualisation (more information can be found at: https://www.seadatanet.org/Software/ODV ). In addition, the same dataset is offered also as a txt file in a long/vertical format, in which each P01 measurement is a record line. Additionally, there are a series of columns that split P01 terms into subcomponents (substance, CAS number, matrix...).This transposed format is more adapted to worksheet applications (e.g. LibreOffice Calc).
366_HRDTM_14m_CelticSea_Ireland_Cork_SouthWest

This composite Digital Terrain Model (cDTM) is a high resolution bathymetry dataset highlighting measurement of depth of water in the ocean. This cDTM covers the Celtic Sea off the coast of South West County Cork in Ireland. The EMODnet high resolution DTM covers bathymetry surveys completed between 2002 and 2016. Bathymetric data collected on board research vessels using multi-beam and single-beam echosounder instrumentation. Raw bathymetry processed within CARIS software to produce bathymetry products subsequently converted to NetCDF cDTM for EMODnet. Acquisition, processing and product delivery follows IHO standard s44 Edition 5. cDTM is composed of two (2) images “merged simply” using GLOBE software. INFOMAR (Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable Development of Ireland’s Marine Resource) is a twenty year programme to map the physical, chemical and biological features of Ireland’s seabed established in 2006. INFOMAR is funded by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DCCAE), and delivered by joint management partners Geological Survey Ireland and the Marine Institute. The programme is the successor to the Irish National Seabed Survey (INSS) which ran between 1999 and 2005. INFOMAR concentrates on creating integrated mapping products related to the seabed.
Beach Litter - Median number of cigarette related items normalized per 100m & to 1 survey - without UNEP_MARLIN - Other sources 2001/2020 v2021

This visualization product displays the cigarette related items abundance of marine macro-litter (> 2.5cm) per beach per year from non-MSFD monitoring surveys, research & cleaning operations without UNEP-MARLIN data.


EMODnet Chemistry included the collection of marine litter in its 3rd phase. Since the beginning of 2018, data of beach litter have been gathered and processed in the EMODnet Chemistry Marine Litter Database (MLDB).
The harmonization of all the data has been the most challenging task considering the heterogeneity of the data sources, sampling protocols and reference lists used on a European scale.


Preliminary processing were necessary to harmonize all the data:
		- Exclusion of OSPAR 1000 protocol: in order to follow the approach of OSPAR that it is not including these data anymore in the monitoring;
		- Selection of surveys from non-MSFD monitoring, cleaning and research operations;
		- Exclusion of beaches without coordinates;
		- Selection of cigarette related items only. The list of selected items is attached to this metadata. This list was created using EU Marine Beach Litter Baselines and EU Threshold Value for Macro Litter on Coastlines from JRC (these two documents are attached to this metadata);
		- Exclusion of surveys without associated length;
		- Exclusion of surveys referring to the UNEP-MARLIN list: the UNEP-MARLIN protocol differs from the other types of monitoring in that cigarette butts are surveyed in a 10m square. To avoid comparing abundances from very different protocols, the choice has been made to distinguish in two maps the cigarette related items results associated with the UNEP-MARLIN list from the others;
		- Normalization of survey lengths to 100m & 1 survey / year: in some case, the survey length was not 100m, so in order to be able to compare the abundance of litter from different beaches a normalization is applied using this formula:
		Number of cigarette related items of the survey (normalized by 100 m) = Number of cigarette related items of the survey x (100 / survey length)
		Then, this normalized number of cigarette related items is summed to obtain the total normalized number of cigarette related items for each survey. Finally, the median abundance of cigarette related items for each beach and year is calculated from these normalized abundances of cigarette related items per survey.

Percentiles 50, 75, 95 & 99 have been calculated taking into account cigarette related items from other sources data (excluding UNEP-MARLIN protocol) for all years.


More information is available in the attached documents.


Warning: the absence of data on the map doesn't necessarily mean that they don't exist, but that no information has been entered in the Marine Litter Database for this area.
Beach litter - Median of total abundance items normalized per 100m & to 1 survey - Other sources 2001/2024 v2025

This visualization product displays the total abundance of marine macro-litter (> 2.5cm) per beach per year from non-MSFD monitoring surveys, research & cleaning operations.


EMODnet Chemistry included the collection of marine litter in its 3rd phase. Since the beginning of 2018, data of beach litter have been gathered and processed in the EMODnet Chemistry Marine Litter Database (MLDB).
The harmonization of all the data has been the most challenging task considering the heterogeneity of the data sources, sampling protocols and reference lists used on a European scale.


Preliminary processings were necessary to harmonize all the data:
		- Exclusion of OSPAR 1000 protocol: in order to follow the approach of OSPAR that it is not including these data anymore in the monitoring;
		- Selection of surveys from non-MSFD monitoring, cleaning and research operations;
		- Exclusion of beaches without coordinates;
		- Some categories & some litter types like organic litter, small fragments (paraffin and wax; items > 2.5cm) and pollutants have been removed. The list of selected items is attached to this metadata. This list was created using EU Marine Beach Litter Baselines, the European Threshold Value for Macro Litter on Coastlines and the Joint list of litter categories for marine macro-litter monitoring from JRC (these three documents are attached to this metadata).
		- Exclusion of surveys without associated length;
		- Normalization of survey lengths to 100m & 1 survey / year: in some case, the survey length was not 100m, so in order to be able to compare the abundance of litter from different beaches a normalization is applied using this formula:
		Number of items (normalized by 100 m) = Number of litter per items x (100 / survey length)
		Then, this normalized number of items is summed to obtain the total normalized number of litter for each survey. Finally, the median abundance for each beach and year is calculated from these normalized abundances per survey.

Percentiles 50, 75, 95 & 99 have been calculated taking into account other sources data for all years. 


More information is available in the attached documents.


Warning: the absence of data on the map does not necessarily mean that they do not exist, but that no information has been entered in the Marine Litter Database for this area.