Antarctic, Sub-Antarctic and cold temperate echinoid database.

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Echinoderm Taxonomy
• Biodiversity Informatics

Background:

• Echinoid distribution data in the Southern Hemisphere was fragmented.
• Previous compilations, like the Antarctic Echinoid Database, covered data until 2003.
• A need existed for an updated and consolidated dataset.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create the most complete database of Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic echinoid occurrences.
• To integrate historical and recent oceanographic data.
• To provide a reliable resource for taxonomic and distribution studies.

Main Methods:

• Compiled echinoid occurrence data from 1872 to 2010.
• Included taxonomic information (species to genus).
• Incorporated sampling details (cruise, dates, ship, coordinates, depth).
• Updated the Antarctic Echinoid Database with post-2003 cruise data.

Main Results:

• The database contains 6160 occurrence data points for echinoids south of 35°S latitude.
• Data covers Antarctic, Sub-Antarctic, and cold temperate regions.
• All records were checked for systematic reliability and consistency.

Conclusions:

• This database is the most comprehensive resource for Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic echinoid distribution.
• It serves as a valuable tool for ecological and evolutionary research in the Southern Ocean.
• The integrated data enhances understanding of echinoid biogeography.