Name:AquaMaps
Description:AquaMaps are computer-generated predictions of natural occurrence of marine species, based on environmental tolerance of a given species with respect to depth, salinity, temperature, and primary productivity. Models are constructed from species information in FishBase, SeaLifeBase and AlgaeBase, and point data from OBIS and GBIF for deriving estimates of the environmental tolerance of a given species which are then matched against local environmental conditions to determine the relative suitability of specific geographic areas for a given species. Predictions of relative probabilities of species occurrence are illustrated through color-coded maps in half-degree latitude / longitude cell resolution. AquaMaps are currently available for over 9000 marine species. The approach has also been modified to extend its application to the prediction of natural ranges of freshwater fishes. Experts are able to review, modify and approve maps.
Abstract:AquaMaps are computer-generated predictions of natural occurrence of marine species, based on environmental tolerance of a given species with respect to depth, salinity, temperature, and primary productivity. Models are constructed from species information in FishBase, SeaLifeBase and AlgaeBase, and point data from OBIS and GBIF for deriving estimates of the environmental tolerance of a given species which are then matched against local environmental conditions to determine the relative suitability of specific geographic areas for a given species. Predictions of relative probabilities of species occurrence are illustrated through color-coded maps in half-degree latitude / longitude cell resolution. AquaMaps are currently available for over 9000 marine species. The approach has also been modified to extend its application to the prediction of natural ranges of freshwater fishes. Experts are able to review, modify and approve maps.

Created:2010-05-01
Last updated:2010-05-01