Most studies produce data sets falling along a continuum between these extremes. When the data from these studies is integrated by averaging over an area and time period distortions can result because of variations in data density leading to inaccurate or misleading results. An organizing feature of this database is the underlying basin grid. Basins are loosely defined as hydro-dynamically homogeneous areas. This concept works best in Florida Bay but has been extended to cover the west coast river systems.
Places can vary greatly in spatial extent.
Place names in the database have been defined in terms of a basin or basins. The user can aggregate basins in order to define ecologically or hydrologically useful areas. The observation was made within Florida Bay waters or in waters adjacent to the bay. The date and time that the observation was made is known. The location at which the observation had been made was known or could be estimated.