Data & information
Pioneering the management and provision of data and information
The MBA has pioneered the management and provision of data and information through flagship projects such as the National Marine Biological Library (NMBL), the Marine Life Information Network (MarLIN) and the UK Archive for Marine Species and Habitats Data (DASSH). Since 2018 the MBA has been accredited as the UK Node for the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), the global data and information clearing-house for marine biodiversity data.
MBA Research Data
The MBA has a rich data portfolio with time series data running from 1903 to present day; including phytoplankton, zooplankton, rocky shore species and larval and adult demersal fish. The time-series data from the MBA contributes to the Western Channel Observatory and more details of the MBA’s data holdings are available on request from by emailing the data team.
The CPR Survey
We provide access to the Continous Plankton Recorder (CPR) Survey data through an open, online portal, which allows anyone to view and access this unique source of data on marine plankton, the foundation of life in the sea.
MarLIN
MarLIN provides information to support marine conservation, management and planning. Our resources are based on the best available scientific evidence and designed for all stakeholders, from government agencies and industry to naturalists and the public. MarLIN hosts the largest review of the effects of human activities and natural events on marine species and habitats yet undertaken.
DASSH
The Data Team of the MBA provides expertise in the archiving, management, visualization and dissemination of quality-assured marine biodiversity datasets and metadata. The team operates the national biodiversity Data Archive Centre, DASSH, which is accredited through the Marine Environmental Data and Information Network (MEDIN).
The Data Team supplies advice, tools and resources enabling maximum value to be gained from biological datasets and additionally provides guidance on compliance with UK and International legislation relating to data governance. Data are published to a range of portals and aggregators including the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Atlas and the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS).
Can we help?
If you have an enquiry about any aspect of the Marine Biological Association, please drop us a line below.
We look forward to hearing from you.
