Enhancing Marine Biodiversity Data Collection and Publication

The Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) and the Atlantic International Research Centre (AIR Centre) will jointly host an in‑person workshop on Enhancing Marine Biodiversity Data Collection and Publication, on 19-23 October 2026 in Portugal. 

The workshop is designed to support marine scientists, data managers and practitioners in mobilising marine biological observation data to the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), following internationally recognised standards such as Darwin Core. Participants will receive practical guidance on standardising biodiversity datasets, improving data quality and preparing information for publication and reuse in support of scientific research, species conservation and ecosystem‑based management. 

In addition to classroom‑based training, the programme includes a fieldwork component, where participants will be trained in the collection and processing of benthic photo‑quadrat imagery and its analysis in line with MBON Pole‑to‑Pole monitoring protocols, strengthening capacity for long‑term monitoring of rocky intertidal communities. By the end of the workshop, participants are expected to have brought at least one dataset to a ready-to-ready stage, aligned with best practices for marine biodiversity data sharing. 

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