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Biological_Descriptors: CSV JSON

Distribution Descriptors: CSV JSON

Ecological Descriptors:CSVJSON

Species Importance To Society:CSVJSON

Biological_Descriptors

wikipagenameLabelDefinitionIs trait of
ActinulaActinulaCrawling larval stage of some hydoids (amend)Larva
AdultAdultThe reproductively capable (mature), fully formed, usually longest lived, stage of an animals life cycle.Lifestage
AdultBodyAdult bodyAttached or stuck to adult but not held in specialised appendage / receptacleCementedAttached
AdultBurrowAdult burrowEggs are placed or retained within the parents burrowEggClutchLocation
AdultDiapauseAdultDiapauseStage
AgeAtMaturityAge at maturityAge recorded in days, months, years.Lifehistory
AlternationOfGenerationsAlternation of generationsThe alternation of generations, in the life cycle of an organism, that exhibit different modes of reproduction; typically sexual (diploid) and asexual (haploid) phases. Also termed metagenesis (Lincoln et al., 1998) (e.g. Daphnia, some rotifers)ReproductiveType
AmphiblastulaAmphiblastulaA poriferan larva, composed of a hollow ball of cells, with one hemisphere ciliated (Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
AnisogamousAnisogamousHaving flagellate gametes of different size, shape or behaviour (from Bold, 1977 and Lincoln et al., 1998).GameteType
AnnualEpisodicAnnual episodicBreeds every year but in one or more discrete periods initiated by some trigger (for example a lunar cycle).Iteroparous
AnnualProtractedAnnual protractedBreeds every year over an extended or drawn out period.Iteroparous
ApomicticParthenogenesisApomictic parthenogenesisReproduction via single cells /eggs that are derived by mitosis (Barnes et al., 1993) - amictic.AsexualReproduction
ArrhenotokyArrhenotokyHaploid males develop from unfertilized eggs and diploid females from fertilized eggs (adapted from Lincoln 'et al., 1998).Gonochoristic
AscidianTadpoleAscidian tadpoleA free-swimming tadpole-like larva of ascidians, characterized by a head (bearing internal organs and adhesive papilla) and tail (with notochord and neural tube) (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
AsexualReproductionAsexual reproductionReproduction not involving the exchange of genetic material, amictic, individuals derived form a single parent (Barnes et al., 2006); not involving the fusion of gametes (Lincoln et al., 1998)ReproductiveType
AttachedSedimentSediment surfaceAttached to the sediment surface e.g. by mucilagenous sheath such as used by necklace shells, and opistobranchsCementedAttached
AuriculariaAuriculariaFirst free-swimming larval stage of the Holothuroidea. It is characterized by a continuous and curving flagellated band (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
AutomicticParthenogenesisAutomictic parthenogenesisObligate self-fertilization (Lincoln et al., 1998) in which haploid eggs /gametes are produced by meiosis but diploidy is restored without fertilization.Monoecious
Biannual<BiannualBreeds less frequently than every two years.Iteroparous
BiannualEpisodicBiannual episodicBreeds every second year but in one or more discrete periods initiated by some trigger (for example a lunar cycle).Iteroparous
BiannualProtractedBiannual protractedBreeds once every two years over an extended or drawn out period.Iteroparous
Biological DescriptorsBiological DescriptorsMarine species traits
BipinnariaBipinnariaFirst of the two free-swimming larval forms in the asteroids, characterized by a ciliary band and the presence of arm-like projections (Stachowitsch, 1992; Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
BivoltineBivoltineTwo generations per year (Barnes et al., 2006).ReproductiveFrequency
BodySizeBody sizeA measurement of the size of the organism. Note - the measurement used to express body size varies within taxonomic groups. For example, some disciplines measure diameter, others carapace length, total body length or wing span. Also body size can vary with gender and life stage.Biological Descriptors
BodylengthBody lengthMaximum recorded linear body length (in millimetres) excluding appendages.QuantitativeBodySize
BrachioloariaBrachiolariaThe second the two free-swimming larval forms in the asteroids, characterized by the appearance of three adhesive arms at the anterior end (Ruppert & Barnes, 1994; Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
BroadcastBroadcastBoth gametes are expelled (spawned) from the confines of the adult body or tissues, into the external fluid medium (water/air)External
BroodChamberBrood chamberEggs retained by adult, usually in specialised cavity/appendage where the eggs develop to larval or juvenile stageEggClutchLocation
BroodingBehaviourBrooding behaviourLifehistory
BuddingBuddingA form of asexual multiplication in which a new individual begins life as an outgrowth from the body of the parent. It may then separate to lead an independent existence or remain connected or otherwise associated to form a colonial organism (Barnes et al., 1993).Vegetative
CementedAttachedCemented or attachedThe surface or body part to which eggs are attached by the parentEggClutchLocation
ClutchSizeClutch sizeNumber of eggs laid at one time - in organisms that may lay eggs in one or more batches.Lifehistory
ConariaConariaEarly larval stage in siphonophores, composed of a floating colony with disc-shaped float, and consists of a hollow sphere with aboral thickening (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
CopepodidCopepodid (copepodite)Free swimming larval stage, typically with five sub-stages, characterized by excretion through maxillary glands, and progressive increase in number of body segments and posterior appendages (see Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
CoronateCoronateFree-swimming, lecithotrophic larva of BryozoaLarva
CydippidCydippidFree-swimming spherical larva, composed of a simple gastrovascular system and short comb-rows; resembles typical adult ctenophore (see Stachowitsch, 1992, Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
CyphonautesCyphonautesFree-swimming bryozoan larva, the body is triangular, compressed and enclosed in a bivalve shell (see Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
CyprisCyprid (cypris)Final lecithotrophic larval stage, characterized by bivalved carapace, compound eyes, prehensile antennules and thoraic appendages (cirri) (see Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
DiameterDiameterThe length of a straight line passing from side to side through the centre of a body or figure, especially a circle or sphere. Note: For diameter you can specify the measurement type (minimum, maximum, average), gender (male, female) and life stage.TaxonSpecificBodySize
DiapauseStageDormancy/Diapause StageDescription of dormant stageLifehistory
DiplonticDiplonticA life cycle characterized by a diploid adult stage producing haploid gametes by meiosis, the zygote forming by fusion of a pair of gametes (Lincoln et al., 1998).LifeCycle
DirectDevelopmentDirect developmentDevelopment without a larval stageLarvalJuvenileDevelopment
DispersalPotentialLarval or juvenile dispersal potentialPotential for dispersal provided by one or more larval/juvenile stages, recorded in m, km.Lifehistory
DoliolariaDoliolariaSecond free-swimming larvae (after the auricularia) in the Holothuroidea. It is characterized by a series of flagellated rings around a barrel-shaped body (Ruppert & Barnes, 1994; Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
EchinopluteusEchinopluteusFree-swimming larva of Echinoidea, distinguished by six pairs of arms, supported by skeletal rods (see Ruppert & Barnes, 1994; Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
EggClutchLocationEgg, egg mass or clutch locationDescription of where fertilized eggs are placed or heldLifehistory
EggPropaguleSizeEgg or propagule sizeSize (diameter) of macrogamete (egg or ovum) in µm, mm, cm.Lifehistory
EggSacEgg sacfor example the egg sacs of copepods - carried by adultEggClutchLocation
EggsEggsDiapauseStage
EphyraEphyraYoung, free-swimming medusa stage typically developing from attached scyphistoma or occasionally direct from a planula. Umbrella typically composed of eight, bifurcated arms (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
ExternalExternalEgg/sperm meet and fertilize externally to parental individuals, tissues or confines of their bodies, but within the fluid mediumFertilization
FecundityFecundityNumber of eggs reported produced per female per reproductive cycle.Lifehistory
FertilizationFertilizationDescription of the location of fertilization, whereby in animals/macroalgae a gametes are fertilized or in plants pollination occurs.Lifehistory
FissionFissionA form of asexual multiplication involving division of the body into two or more parts each or all of which can grow into new individuals (Barnes et al., 1993).Vegetative
ForkLengthFork length (FL)1) Length of a fish measured from the tip of the snout to the posterior end of the middle caudal rays. This measurement is used instead of standard length for fishes on which it is difficult to ascertain the end of the vertebral column, and instead of total length in fish with stiff, forked tail, e.g., tuna. Mostly used in fishery biology and not in systematics. (FishBase)

2) Fork length (FL) refers to the length of a fish measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the middle caudal fin rays and is used in fishes in which it is difficult to tell where the vertebral column ends. (Wikipedia)

3) Fork length (FL) can be specified as:
  • Maximum length: Size (in cm) of the largest male/unsexed or female specimen ever caught. (FishBase)
  • Common length: Size (in cm) at which male/unsexed or female specimen(s) are commonly caught or marketed. (FishBase)
TaxonSpecificBodySizeFish
FreeWaterColumnFree or water columnEggs spawned into water columnEggClutchLocation
GameteTypeGamete typeDescriptors of the relative size of gametesLifehistory
GenerationTimeGeneration timeThe mean period of time between reproduction by parent generation and the reproduction of the first filial generation (Lincoln et al., 1998); recorded in years.Lifehistory
GlochidiumGlochidiumSpecialist larval form in some freshwater bivalves, characterized by a bivalve shell, with or with a pair of hooks, and a long adhesive thread or tentacle. It lives as a temporary parasite on the gills or fins of fish. In some species a modified glochidium is termed a 'lasidium' before attachment and a 'haustorium' after attachment (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
GoettesLarvaGoette's larvaFree-swimming four armed (lobed) ciliated larva of Platyhelminthes (see Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
GonochoristicGonochorisitc (dioecious)Having separate sexes/genders (Barnes et al., 1993).SexualReproduction
HaploidDiploidHaploid-diploid (haplodiplontic)Both haploid and diploid forms, with gametophytes giving rise to haploid gametes, and sporophytes giving rise to haploid spores by meiosisLifeCycle
HaplonticHaplonticA life cycle in which meiosis occurs in the zygote to produce the haploid phase but in which only the zygote is diploid (Lincoln et al., 1998).LifeCycle
HardSubstrataRock (hard substrata)Attached or stuck to hard substrata, e.g. dog whelk capsulesCementedAttached
HeteromorphicHeteromorphicThe haploid and diploid phases are different in size and body shape; the gametophyte is often diminutive (small to microscopic).HaploidDiploid
InstarInstarAny intermoult stage in the development of an arthropod (Lincoln et al., 1998)Lifestage
InternalInternalFertilization (gametes meet) within the body (or body cavity or accessory organ) of the individualFertilization
IsogamousIsogamousGametes similar in size, shape and behaviour, not differentiated into male or female (Lincoln et al., 1998)GameteType
IsomorphicIsomorphicHaploid and diploid phases morphologically identicalHaploidDiploid
IteroparousIteroparous (polytely)1) Breeding several times per lifetime. 2) Organisms that have repeated reproductive cycles (Lincoln et al., 1998).ReproductiveFrequency
JuvenileJuvenileEarly adult life stage of an organism that shares the morphology and ecology of the adult but is not capable of reproduction.Lifestage
JuvenilesJuvenilesDiapauseStage
LarvaLarvaAn independent, motile, developmental stage of an organism, that differs in morphology and ecology from the juvenile or adult stage, and undergoes a metamorphosis to become the juvenile or adult (adapted from Ruppert & Barnes, 1994; Barnes et al., 2006).Lifestage
LarvalJuvenileDevelopmentLarval and juvenile developmentDescription of how the larvae or juveniles develop into adultsLifehistory
LarvalSettlementLarval settlement periodDescription of the period of time over which larval settlement occurs.Lifehistory
LarvalStageDurationDuration of larval stageDuration of the larval stage recorded in days or months.Lifehistory
LarvalSttlementSubstratumLarval settlement substratumA description of the preferred substratum for larval settlementLifehistory
LecithotrophicLecithotrophicDevelopment at the expense of internal resources (i.e. yolk) provided by the female (Barnes et al., 1993).LarvalJuvenileDevelopment
LifeCycleLife cycleThe stages an organism passes through between the production of gametes by one generation and production of gametes by the next generation (Lincoln et al., 1998)Lifehistory
LifeSpanLife spanlife span/longevity, recorded in days, months, years.Lifehistory
LifehistoryLife historyTraits that describe the life history characteristics of an organismBiological Descriptors
LifestageLife stagesDescription of the larval and juvenile stages in the life cycle of an organismBiological Descriptors
MacrobiotaMacrobiota [2.0 - 200 mm]Individual organisms with a mean body size between 2.0 and 200 mm.QualitativeBodySize
MegabiotaMegabiota [> 200 mm]Individual organisms with a mean body size larger than 200 mm.QualitativeBodySize
MegalopaMegalopaPost larval stage of decapod Crustacea (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
MeiobiotaMeiobiota [0.2 - 2.0 mm]Individual organisms with a mean body size between 0.2 and 2.0 mm.QualitativeBodySize
MetanaupliusMetanaupliusSecond larval stage in decapod Crustacea; resembles the nauplius but with more appendages (see Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
MicrobiotaMicrobiota [<0.2 mm]Individual organisms with a mean body size smaller than 0.2 mm.QualitativeBodySize
MitrariaMitrariaA type of polychaete larva characterized by numerous long flotation bristles (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
MonoeciousHermaphrodite (monoecious)Both male and female reproductive organs in a single individual (animals) or flower (plants) (Lincoln et al., 1998).SexualReproduction
MullersLarvaMuller's larvaThe free-swimming eight armed (lobed) ciliated larva of Platyhelminthes (see Rupert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
MultivoltineMultivoltineMany generations per year (Barnes et al., 2006).ReproductiveFrequency
NaupliusNaupliusFree-swimming larva, with a characteristic triangular shape, rostral horns in some, three pairs of appendages, and sometimes a nauplia eye. The number of nauplius stages varies between groups (see Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
NectochaetaNectochaetaA polychaete larval stage where the first set of chaetal bundles and parapodia develop, although the ciliary girdle remains for swimming (see Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
NoDiapauseNoneDiapauseStage
NoOviparousCareNo careEggs are laid and abandoned by adultOviparous
NoViviparousCareNo careOffspring are abandoned by the adultViviparous
NonSelfingNon-selfingIncapable of self-fertilization, due to physical or temporal separation of gametes, and/or self-incompatability genesPermanentHermaphrodite
OogamousOogamousHaving large, non-motile eggs and small motile sperm (Lincoln et al., 1998).GameteType
OphiopluteusOphiopluteusFree-swimming larvae of Ophiuroidea, distinguished by four pairs of arms supported by skeletal rods (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
OviparousOviparousEgg laying; producing eggs that are laid and hatch externally (Lincoln et al., 1998).DirectDevelopment
OviparousCareParental CareParents, guard or protect the eggs/clutch e.g. birds, some reptilesOviparous
OvoviviparousOvoviviparousFully formed eggs are retained and hatched inside the maternal body and are released as live offspring (Lincoln et al., 1998). No nutrition is derived from the mother.DirectDevelopment
ParenchymellaParenchymellaA poriferan larva composed of a ciliated ball of cells (blastula), with a brief swimming phase (Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
PediveligerPediveligerA late veliger that is able to use its foot to crawl and provide temporary attachmentLarva
PelagosphaeraPelagosphaeraThe secondary free-swimming larva in Sipunculida, that develops from a non-feeding trochophore (Ruppert & Barnes, 1994).Larva
PermanentHermaphroditePermanent (synchronous) hermaphroditeCapable of producing both ova and spermatozoa either at the same time (Barnes et al., 1993).Monoecious
PhysiologyPhysiologyBiological Descriptors
PilidiumPilidiumFree-swimming, helmet-shaped, larva of nemerteans (ribbon worms) with an apical tuft, apical sensory organs, oral lobes and oral ciliated band (see Stachowitsch, 1992, Rupert & Barnes, 1996).Larva
PlanktotrophicPlanktotrophicFeeding at least in part on materials captured from the plankton (Barnes et al., 1993).LarvalJuvenileDevelopment
PlanulaPlanulaA ciliated, free swimming larva; lacks a mouth but in older stages may include a gastrovascular cavity (Stachowitsch, 1992)Larva
PollinationPollination (plants)Transfer of male gametophyte (pollen) to the 'female' part of a flowerInternal
ProtandrousProtandrousA condition of hermaphroditism in plants and animals where male gametes mature and are shed before female gametes mature (Holmes, 1979).SequentialHermaphrodite
ProtogynousProtogynousA condition of hermaphroditism in plants and animals where female gametes mature and are shed before male gametes mature (Holmes 1979).SequentialHermaphrodite
ProtonymphonProtonymphonLarval pycnogonid that bears three pairs of appendages, the chelicerae, palps and ovigerous legs (Ruppert & Barnes, 1996).Larva
ProtozoeaProtozoeaThird larval stage in Decapoda, characterized by antennal locomotion (see Stachowitsch, 1992)Larva
PseudoArrhenotokyPseudo-arrhenotokyMales develop from diploid fertilized eggs but subsequently eliminate or silence the paternal genomeGonochoristic
QualitativeBodySizeQualitative body sizeBody size measured in terms of mega, macro, meio/meso and micro.BodySize
QuantitativeBodySizeQuantitative body sizeBody size measured in numerical values.BodySize
RatariaRatariaA later larval stage in siphonophores, composed of a floating colony with a disc-shaped float, and an elongated body surrounded by the rim of the growing disc (Stachowitsch, 1992)Larva
ReproductiveFrequencyReproductive FrequencyLifehistory
ReproductiveSeasonReproductive seasonA description of the season(s) or months of the year during which reproduction occursLifehistory
ReproductiveTypeReproductive typeTraits that describe how an organism reproduces or the mechanism by which reproduction is achieved.Lifehistory
SedimentSurfaceSediment surfaceEggClutchLocation
SeedsSeeds (plants)DiapauseStage
SelfFertilizingSelf-fertilizingCapable of self-fertilizationPermanentHermaphrodite
SemelparousSemelparous (monotely)Breeding once per lifetime, or breeding only once then dying (Barnes et al., 2006). Organisms that only have one brood during their lifetime (Lincoln et al., 1998).ReproductiveFrequency
SemivoltineSemivoltineOne generation every two years (Barnes et al., 2006).ReproductiveFrequency
SequentialHermaphroditeSequential hermaphroditeHermaphrodite in which the male and female organs mature (that is produce gametes) at different times in the reproductive cycle (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998)Monoecious
SexualReproductionSexual reproduction1) Reproduction involving the regular alternation of gamete formation by meiosis, and gamete fusion (karyogamy) to form a zygote (Lincoln et al.,1998). 2) Reproduction where recombination of genetic material, derived from more than one parent is possible (Barnes et al. 2006), true amphimixis involves random segregation of genes and random association of parental contribution (gametes).ReproductiveType
SpecialisedStageSpecialised stageA specialised dormancy or diapause stage in the life cycle of the organismDiapauseStage
SpermcastSpermcastMale gametes are spawned and fertilize eggs within or attached to parentInternal
SporogenesisSporogenesisReproduction via sporesReproductiveType
StandardLengthStandard length (SL)1) The measurement from the most anterior tip of the body to the midlateral posterior edge of the hypural plate (in fish with a hypural plate) or to the posterior end of the vertebral column (in fish lacking hypural plates). It may be restricted to the tip of the snout if the lower jaw projects. The base of the caudal fin (end of the vertebral column or posterior edge of the hypural plate) is determined by flexing the tail up while the caudal peduncle is held down. The resultant wrinkle or caudal flexure indicates the caudal base. It may also be determined by probing or dissection. Sometimes the posteriormost point is the last scale, the last pored scale or the beginning of the caudal fin rays. It is the usual scientific measurement for length of a fish except in Myxini, Petromyzontiformes, Elasmobranchii and Holocephali. This measurement is used because long-preserved fish often lose the tips of the caudal fin rays through breakage after the desiccation effect of alcohol. See total length and fork length. In Holocephali the length is usually taken from the tip of the snout to the origin of the upper caudal fin because the caudal filament breaks off frequently. In Scaridae it is taken back to the rear margin of the second to last lateral line scale, because the large scales obscure the point of caudal flexure. In small dead fish, the end point is detected by bending the caudal fin to one side. In fishery work, as a result of the use of the measuring board, standard-, fork- and total length are taken from the most anterior part of the head. Abbreviated as SL. (FishBase)

2) Standard length (SL) refers to the length of a fish measured from the tip of the snout to the posterior end of the last vertebra or to the posterior end of the midlateral portion of the hypural plate. Simply put, this measurement excludes the length of the caudal fin. (Wikipedia)

Standard length measurements are used with Teleostei (most bony fish), while total length measurements are used with Myxini (hagfish), Petromyzontiformes (lampreys), and (usually) Elasmobranchii (sharks and rays), as well as some other fishes. (Wikipedia)

3) Standard length (SL) can be specified as: a) Maximum length: Size (in cm) of the largest male/unsexed or female specimen ever caught. (FishBase); b) Common length: Size (in cm) at which male/unsexed or female specimen(s) are commonly caught or marketed. (FishBase).
TaxonSpecificBodySizeFish
TaxonSpecificBodySizeTaxon specific body sizeThe measure of body size specific to a taxonomic group.QuantitativeBodySize
TaxonSpecificBodySizeFishTaxon specific body size: FishFish measurement is the measuring of the length of individual fish and of various parts of their anatomy. These data are used in many areas of ichthyology, including taxonomy and fisheries biology. (Wikipedia)TaxonSpecificBodySize
TaxonSpecificBodySizeMacroAlgaeTaxon specific body size: MacroalgaeTaxonSpecificBodySize
TotalLengthTotal length (TL)1) The greatest length of the whole body between the most anterior point of the body and the most posterior point, in a straight line, not over the curve of the body. Sometimes, when there are two equal lobes, the caudal rays are squeezed together and their tip is taken as the most posterior point (excluding the caudal filaments), or the longest lobe is squeezed to the midline (maximum length or extreme tip length). Also an imaginary line may be drawn between the two lobe tips and length to its mid-point taken as the most posterior point (total auxiliary length or bilobular length). Usually the tip of the most posterior lobe of the fin in normal position is taken as the posteriormost point (total normal length or natural tip length). Total length is used by taxonomists in Myxini, Petromyzontiformes, usually in Elasmobranchii and sometimes in other fishes. Standard length is usually employed with Teleostei. Abbreviated TL. (FishBase)


2) Total length (TL) refers to the length of a fish measured from the tip of the snout to the tip of the longer lobe of the caudal fin, usually measured with the lobes compressed along the midline. It is a straight-line measure, not measured over the curve of the body. (Wikipedia)

Total length measurements are used in slot limit and minimum landing size regulations. (Wikipedia)

3) Total length (TL) can be specified as:
  • Maximum length: Size (in cm) of the largest male/unsexed or female specimen ever caught. (FishBase)
  • Common length: Size (in cm) at which male/unsexed or female specimen(s) are commonly caught or marketed. (FishBase)
TaxonSpecificBodySizeFish
UnivoltineUnivoltineOne generation per year / annuals (Barnes et al., 2006).ReproductiveFrequency
VegetationVegetationAttached or stuck to vegetation, e.g. opistobranchs, mermaid purses, cephalopod eggs etc.CementedAttached
VegetativeVegetative reproductionAsexual reproduction via somatic growth processes, fragmentation, fission, or budding (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998)AsexualReproduction
VeligerVeligerA free-swimming molluscan larva, characterized by lobed extensions of the peroral trochus (velum), larval shell and rudimentary foot (Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva
ViviparousViviparous1) Producing live offspring from within the body of the parent (Lincoln et al., 1998). 2) Development of an embryo within the body of the parent, in part, resources passing directly from parent to embryo (Barnes et al., 2006).DirectDevelopment
ViviparousCareParental careOffspring are nurtured and protected by the adultViviparous
WidthWidthA measurement or extent of something from side to side; the lesser of two or the least of three dimensions of a body (OED) Note: For width you can specify the measurement type (minimum, maximum, average), gender (male, female) and life stage.TaxonSpecificBodySize
WidthOfDiscWidth of disc (WD)The greatest distance between the lateral tips of the pectoral fins in Rajiformes. (FishBase)TaxonSpecificBodySizeFish
WingspanWingspanIn birds (Aves) - "the distance between the wing tips when the wings are held outstretched" (Wikipedia) or "wingtip to wingtip in flight" (BTO).

In winged insects (Insecta) - "may refer to the distance between the centre of the thorax to the apex of the wing doubled or to the width between the apices with the wings set with the trailing wing edge perpendicular to the body" (Wikipedia)

Note: For wingspan you can specify the measurement type (minimum, maximum, average), gender (male, female) and life stage.
TaxonSpecificBodySize
ZoeaZoeaFourth free-swimming larval stage of Decapoda, with thoracic appendages for locomotion (see Stachowitsch, 1992).Larva

Distribution_Descriptors

Distribution Descriptors 
wikipagenameLabelDefinitionIs trait of
AbyssobenthicAbyssobenthic (Abyssal)Occupying the ocean floor from ca 4000 - 6000 m depth. Usually a more or less flat plain (Lincoln et al., 1998).Benthic
AbyssopelagicAbyssopelagic (2500-6000 m)Overlays the plains of the major ocean basins with a lower boundary of ca 6000 m.Pelagic
AlphaHalineAlpha-haline36-40 psuMarineSalinity
AlphaMesohalineAlpha-Mesohaline10-<18 psuMesohaline
AlphaOligohalineAlpha-Oligohaline3-<5 psuOligohaline
AlphaPolyhalineAlpha-Polyhaline25-<30 psuPolyhaline
AnchialineCavesAnchialine cavesCoastal salt water habitats with no surface connection to the sea.VerticalBiologicalZone
ArtificialArtificial (man-made)E.g. wood, metal or concrete structures.HardImmobile
BathybenthicBathybenthic (Bathyal)Occupying the ocean floor from ca 200 - 4000 m depth (Lincoln et al., 1998).Benthic
BathylpelagicBathylpelagic (1000-2500 m)Extends from ca 1000-2500 m.Pelagic
BedrockBedrockAny stable hard substratum, not separated into boulders or smaller sediment units. Includes soft rock-types such as chalk, peat and clay. (Hiscock et al., 1999; MarLIN)HardImmobile
BenthicBenthicPertaining to the sea bed, river bed or lake floor (Lincoln et al., 1998).VerticalBiologicalZone
BenthopelagicBenthopelagicA zone of open water extending ca 100 m above the surface of the sea bed at all depths below the edge of the continental shelf.Pelagic
BetaHalineBeta-Haline30-36 psuMarineSalinity
BetaMesohalineBeta-Mesohaline5-<10 psuMesohaline
BetaOligohalineBeta-Oligohaline0.5-<3 psuOligohaline
BetaPolyhalineBeta-Polyhaline18-<25 psuPolyhaline
BiogenicReefBiogenic reefAn elevated structure on the seabed built by calcareous or other concretion-forming organisms, or by chemical precipitation (Hiscock, 1996); for example by Modiolus modiolus or Sabellaria alveolataFeaturesOther
BrackishBrackishEnvironment
BrackishSalinityBrackish0.5-<30 psuSalinity
BurrowDwellerBurrow dwellerOccupies or shares space in burrow constructed by other organisms.FeaturesOther
CaveCaveA hollow normally eroded in a cliff (or vertical rock) with the penetration being greater than the width of the entrance (Hiscock, 1996).FeaturesOther
CircalittoralCircalittoralThe subzone of the rocky sublittoral below that dominated by algae (the infralittoral), and dominated by animals. No lower limit is defined, but species composition changes below about 40m to 80m depth, depending on depth of the seasonal thermocline. This subzone can be subdivided into the upper circalittoral where foliose algae are present and the lower circalittoral where they are not (see Hiscock, 1985). The term is also used by Glémarec (1973) to refer to two étages of the sediment benthos below the infralittoral: a "coastal circalittoral category with a eurythermal environment of weak seasonal amplitude (less than 10°C) varying slowly" and a "circalittoral category of the open sea with a stenothermal environment" (Hiscock, 1996).Sublittoral
CircalittoralOffshoreCircalittoral offshoreTypically occurs below 50-70 metres away from the influence of wave action. Aphotic with animal communities in stable or stenothermal and stenohaline conditions. Open sea (Connor et al., 1997).Sublittoral
ClayClay1) Sediment particles less than 0.004 mm in size (Wentworth, 1922). 2) A soft very fine-grained sedimentary rock composed primarily of clay-sized particles (Hiscock, 1996).SedimentSoft
CoarseCleanSandCoarse clean sand1) Particle size 0.5 - 4 mm (Hiscock, 1996)Sand
CoarseSedimentsCoarse sedimentsSediments composed of gravel and sand; inc. gravel, gravelly sand and sandy gravel (Long, 2006)SedimentSoft
CobblesCobbles64-256 mm. May be rounded or flat. Substrata that are predominantly cobbles.HardMobile
CrevicesFissuresCrevices and fissuresA narrow crack in hard substratum where penetration is deeper than the width at the entrance; a crevice is <10 mm wide at the entrance, while a fissure is >10 mm (Hiscock ,1996)FeaturesOther
DemersalDemersalLiving at or near the bottom of a sea or lake but having the capacity for active swimming (from Lincoln et al., 1998).EnvironmentalPosition
DepthDepthMaximum recorded depth below chart datum (expressed in metres).Distribution Descriptors
DepthRangeDepth rangeMaximum to minimum recorded depth (expressed as metres below chart datum).Depth
DepthSubstratumDepth in substratumThe depth within the substratum at which the organism is found (max recorded in metres).Depth
Distribution DescriptorsDistribution DescriptorsFields and traits that describe the distribution of the species.Marine species traits
ElevationElevationA measure of height above chart datum, recorded in metresDistribution Descriptors
EnclosedCoastEnclosed coast or embaymentA marine inlet or harbour fully enclosed from the open sea except at the entrance, not normally open to the sea at two ends. The connection with the open sea is normally less restricted than is the case with lagoons (Hiscock, 1996).Physiography
EndophyticEndophyticA plant living within another plant (Lincoln et al., 1998)EnvironmentalPosition
EndozoicEndozoicLiving within the body of an animal (Lincoln et al., 1998).EnvironmentalPosition
EnvironmentEnvironmentBroad descriptors of the major environmental regionsDistribution Descriptors
EnvironmentalPositionEnvironmental positionPosition relative to substratum or fluid medium (air/water).Habitat
EpibenthicEpibenthicLiving on the surface of the seabed.EnvironmentalPosition
EpifaunalEpifaunalAn animal living on the surface of the substratum.EnvironmentalPosition
EpifloralEpifloralA plant living on the surface of the substratum.EnvironmentalPosition
EpilithicEpilithicLiving on the surface of rock or other hard inorganic substrataEnvironmentalPosition
EpipelagicEpipelagic (0-200 m)The photic zone, includes the open ocean influenced by light.  The lower boundary is dependent on the depth of light penetration and is generally regarded extend to ca 200 m in depth.Pelagic
EpipelicEpipelicAn organism that moves over the surface of sediment or lives at the sediment / water interface.EnvironmentalPosition
EpiphyticEpiphyticLiving on the surface of a living plant but not parasitic upon it.EnvironmentalPosition
EpizooicEpizooicLiving on the exterior of a living animal but not parasitic upon it.EnvironmentalPosition
EstuaryEstuaryDownstream part of a river where it widens to enter the sea; often with significant freshwater influence and predominantly comprising sediment habitats.Physiography
EulittoralLittoral1) The region between the highest and lowest extent of the tide on the shore. 2) The shore zone between the lowest and highest seasonal water level in a lake (Lincoln et al., 1998)Benthic
ExposedExposed1) Coasts which face the prevailing wind but which have a degree of shelter because of extensive shallow areas offshore, offshore obstructions, or a restricted (less than 90°) window to open water. These sites are not generally exposed to large waves or regular swell. 2) Open coasts facing away from prevailing winds but with a long fetch, and where strong winds are frequent.WaveExposed
ExtremelyExposedExtremely exposedOpen coastlines which face into the prevailing wind and receive both wind-driven waves and oceanic swell without any offshore obstructions such as islands or shallows for several thousand kilometres and where deep water is close to the shore (50 m depth contour within about 300 m).WaveExposed
ExtremelyShelteredExtremely shelteredFully enclosed coasts with a fetch of no more than about 3 km.WaveSheltered
FeaturesOtherFeatures or other substratumDescriptors of types of unusual or unique types of substratum or habitatSubstratumHabitat
FineCleanSandFine clean sandParticle size 0.063 - 0.5 mm (Hiscock, 1996)Sand
FreshwaterFreshwaterEnvironment
FreshwaterSalinityFreshwater<0.5 psuSalinity
GravelShingleGravel or shingle1) Particle size 4 -16 mm. 2) Clean stone or shell gravel including dead maerl (Hiscock, 1996) 3) >80% gravel (Long, 2006).CoarseSediments
GravellyMudGravelly mudMud with 5-30% gravel (see Long, 2006)Mixed
GravellyMuddySandGravelly muddy sandSand (50-90%) with gravel (>5%) and mud (see Long, 2006)Mixed
GravellySandGravelly sandSand with 5-30% gravel (see Long 2006)CoarseSediments
HabitatHabitatTraits that describe an organisms preferred habitat and its position within that habitat.Distribution Descriptors
HabitatPreferencesHabitat PreferencesDistribution Descriptors
HadobenthicHadobenthic (Hadal)Occupying the ocean floor at depths exceeding ca 6000 m. Usually in trenches and canyons of the abyssal zone. (Lincoln et al., 1998).Benthic
HadopelagicHadopelagic (>6000 m)Open waters of deep oceanic trenches, from ca 6000 m and below.Pelagic
HardHardHard substratum e.g. bedrock, concrete, boulders,cobbles and pebblesSubstratumHabitat
HardImmobileImmobile hardImmobile hard substratum e.g. solid rock, concrete but including soft rocks, such as chalk.Hard
HardMobileMobile hardMobile hard substratum, e.g. cobbles, pebbles that are regularly moved by wave action.Hard
HyperSalineHyper-saline>40 psuSalinity
HyperbenthicHyperbenthicLiving above but close to the substratum (Lincoln et al., 1998).EnvironmentalPosition
IceAssociatedIce-AssociatedSea ice, icebergs and other ice-associated marine habitats.VerticalBiologicalZone
InfaunalInfaunalBenthic animals which live within the seabed.EnvironmentalPosition
InfralittoralInfralittoralA subzone of the sublittoral in which upward-facing rocks are dominated by erect algae, typically kelps; it can be further subdivided into the upper and lower infralittoral (based on Hiscock, 1985). The term is also used by Glémarec (1973) to refer to areas (étages) with a eurythermal environment of great seasonal and also daily and tidal amplitude. 1) lower The part of the infralittoral subzone which, on hard substrata, supports scattered kelp plants (a kelp park) or from which kelps are absent altogether and the seabed is dominated by foliose red and brown algae. It may be difficult to distinguish the lower infralittoralwhere grazing pressure prevents the establishment of foliose algae. 2) upper The part of the infralittoral subzone which, on hardsubstrata, is dominated by Laminariales forming a dense canopy, or kelp forest (based on Hiscock, 1985).Sublittoral
InterstitialInterstitialLiving within the system of cavities and channels formed by the spaces between grains in a sediment (interstitial space).EnvironmentalPosition
LagoonIsolated saline water (lagoon)Enclosed bodies of water, separated or partially separated from the sea by shingle, sand or sometimes rock and with a restricted exchange of water with the sea, yielding varying salinity regimes.Physiography
LargeBouldersLarge or very large boulders>512 mm; likely to be stable (Hiscock, 1996).HardImmobile
LithotomousLithotomousStone-boring; an organism that burrows into rock.EnvironmentalPosition
LowerCircalittoralLower circalittoralDominated by animals with no foliose algae but encrusting Rhodophycota patchy in grazed areas. The part of the circalittoral subzone on hard substrata below the maximum depth limit of foliose algae (based on Hiscock, 1985).Circalittoral
LowerInfralittoralLower infralittoralThe part of the infralittoral subzone which, on hard substrata, supports scattered kelp plants (a kelp park) or from which kelps are absent altogether and the seabed is dominated by foliose red and brown algae. It may be difficult to distinguish the lower infralittoral where grazing pressure prevents the establishment of foliose algae (based on Hiscock, 1985).Infralittoral
LowerLittoralLower littoralThe lower part of the shore only exposed (emersed) at the lowest part of the tide.Eulittoral
LowerLittoralFringeLower littoral fringeThe bottom of the littoral fringe. In the UK, characterized by he Pelvetia/Porphyra belt with patchy Verrucaria maura and Fucus spiralis (on sheltered shores). Verrucaria mucosa present above the main barnacle population. May also include salt marsh species on shale/pebbles in shelter (Hiscock, 1996).Eulittoral
MacroalgaeMacroalgaeMacroalgal surfaces, such as kelps and fucoids.FeaturesOther
MaerlMaerlMaerl beds formed by build up of maerl.FeaturesOther
MarineMarineEnvironment
MarineSalinityMarine30-40 psu (equals MNCR Full)Salinity
MediumCleanSandMedium clean sandParticle size 0.25-1mm (Hiscock, 1996)Sand
MesohalineMesohaline5-<18 psu (equals MNCR Low, <18 psu)BrackishSalinity
MesopelagicMesopelagic (200-1000 m)The upper aphotic zone and extends to a depth of ca 1000 m.Pelagic
MidEulittoralMid littoralBarnacle - limpet dominated, sometimes mussels, with Fucus vesiculosus and Ascophyllum nodosum. Mastocarpus stellatus and Palmaria palmata patchy in lower part. Usually quite a wide belt (Hiscock, 1996).Eulittoral
MixedMixedMixtures of a variety of sediment types, composed of pebble / gravel / sand / mud. This category includes muddy gravels, muddy sandy gravels, gravelly muds, and muddy gravelly sands.SedimentSoft
ModeratelyExposedModerately exposedGenerally coasts facing away from prevailing winds and without a long fetch but where strong winds can be frequent.WaveExposed
ModeratelyStrongModerately strong1 to 3 knots (0.5-1.5 m/sec.)TidalStrength
MudMud1) Particle size <0.063 mm (silt / clay fraction) (Hiscock, 1996) 2) >90% mud (Long, 2006)MudSandyMud
MudSandyMudMud and sandy mudMud and sandy muds where mud is the major fraction (see Long, 2006)SedimentSoft
MuddyGravelMuddy gravelGravel (30-80%) with mud (see Long, 2006)Mixed
MuddySandMuddy sandSand (50-90%) with mud (see Long, 2006)MudSandyMud
MuddySandyGravelMuddy sandy gravelGravel (30-80%) with mud and sand (see Long, 2006)Mixed
NektonNektonic (nekton)Active swimming organisms that live in the water column and are able to move independently of the water mass (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).EnvironmentalPosition
NeriticNeriticWater column overlying the continental shelf; surface to ca 200m depth.Province
NeustonicNeustonicLiving on or under the surface film of open water.EnvironmentalPosition
OceanicOceanicOpen waters beyond the continental shelf.Province
OffshoreSeabedOffshore seabedSeabed beyond three miles (5 km) from the shore.Physiography
OligohalineOligohaline0.5-<5 psu (included under MNCR Low, <18 psu)BrackishSalinity
OpenCoastOpen coastAny part of the coast not within a marine inlet, strait or lagoon, including offshore rocks and small islands. This includes MNCR types; linear coast, islands / rocks and semi-enclosed coast.Physiography
OtherSpeciesOther speciesThe surface of other species, e.g. shells or carapace.FeaturesOther
OverhangsOverhangAn overhanging part of a rock formation. Typically the surface of the rock below the overhang receives some cover or shade from the overhang.FeaturesOther
PebblesPebbles16-64 mm. May be rounded or flat. Substrata which are predominantly pebbles.HardMobile
PelagicPelagicPertaining to the water column. Inhabiting the open sea, excluding the sea floor (rephrased from Lincoln et al., 1998).VerticalBiologicalZone
PhysiographyPhysiographyCoastal geomorphology and physical features.Habitat
PlanktonPlanktonic (plankton)Living in the fluid medium (water or air) but unable to maintain their position or distribution independently of the movement of the water/air mass (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).EnvironmentalPosition
PleustonicPleustonicLiving permanently at the water surface due to their own buoyancy, normally positioned partly in the water and partly in the air.EnvironmentalPosition
PolyhalinePolyhaline18-<30 psu (included under MNCR Reduced, 18-30 psu)BrackishSalinity
ProvinceProvinceDescriptors of the major 'regions' of the seas.Distribution Descriptors
RiaVoeRia or voeDrowned river valleys of south-west Britain (ria) and Shetland (voe). Often with a greater presence of rock and more marine in character than estuaries.Physiography
RockpoolsRockpool1) A pool of water among rocks left behind by the ebbing tide. 2) a depression in the littoral zone of a rocky seashore where, at low tide, seawater is left behind (Hiscock, 1996).FeaturesOther
SalinitySalinity (regime)The range of salinities in which the organism is recorded (scale taken from Reusser & Lee, 2011)Habitat
SaltmarshSalt marshA flat, poorly drained coastal swamp inundated by most high tides (Lincoln et al., 1998).FeaturesOther
SandSand1) Particle size 0.063 -4 mm (Hiscock 1996) 2) >90% sand (Long, 2006)SandMuddySand
SandMuddySandSand and muddy sandSands and sands with mud where sand is the major fraction (see Long 2006)SedimentSoft
SandyGravelSandy gravel30 -80% gravel with sand (see Long, 2006).CoarseSediments
SandyMudSandy mudMud (50-90%) with sandMudSandyMud
SeaIceSea iceThe habitat provided by the surface of frozen sea water floating on the surface. Sea ice may form thin sheets, fast moving pieces, pack ice or large icebergs.IceAssociated
SeaLochSea loch (Scotland), sea lough (Ireland)Glacially formed inlets (fjords, fjards) of western Scotland and Ireland; typically elongate and deepened by glacial action with little freshwater influence. Often with narrows and sills dividing the loch into a series of basins.Physiography
SeagrassSeagrassHabitat associated with seagrass bed communities.FeaturesOther
SedimentSoftSoft (sediment)Particulate solid matter accumulated by natural processes (Hiscock, 1996)SubstratumHabitat
ShelteredShelteredCoasts with a restricted fetch and/or open water window. Coasts can face prevailing winds but with a short fetch (< 20 km) or extensive shallow area offshore, or may face away from prevailing winds.WaveSheltered
SmallBouldersSmall boulders256 -512 mm; may be unstable.HardImmobile
SplashZoneSplash zoneRegion of the shore immediately above the highest levels of the water that is subject to wetting by splash from breaking waves (Lincoln et al., 1998).Supralittoral
SprayZoneSpray ZoneRegion of the shore immediately above the splash zone that is subject to wetting by the spray from breaking waves (Lincoln et al., 1998).Supralittoral
StraitSoundStrait or soundChannels between the mainland and an island or between two islands which are open at both ends to the open coast (it does not refer to similar features or narrows within marine inlets).Physiography
StrandlineStrand-lineA line on the shore composing debris deposited by a receding tide; commonly used to denote the line of debris at the level of extreme high water (Lincoln et al., 1998).FeaturesOther
StrongStrong3 to 6 knots (1.5-3 m/sec.)TidalStrength
SublittoralSublittoral1) The zone exposed to air only at its upper limit by the lowest spring tides, although almost continuous wave action on extremely exposed coasts may extend the upper limit high into the intertidal region. The sublittoral extends from the upper limit of the large kelps and includes, for practical purposes in nearshore areas, all depths below the littoral. Various sub-zones are recognized (based on Hiscock, 1985). 2) The marine zone extending from the lowest limit of the intertidal to the outer edge of the continental slope (rephrased from Lincoln et al., 1998).Benthic
SublittoralFringeSublittoral fringeThe upper part of the sublittoral zone which is uncovered by the tide. On hard substrata, the zone is characterized by the kelps Laminaria digitata and Alaria esculenta. The lower limit of this zone is marked by the upper limit of the truly sublittoral kelp Laminaria hyperborea (based on Lewis, 1964; Hiscock, 1996).Benthic
SubstratumHabitatSubstratumDescription of the substratum on or in which an organism is found or recorded.Habitat
SupralittoralSupralittoral1) The lower terrestrial zone, characteristically dominated by orange and white-to-grey lichens on hard substrata with scattered salt-tolerant higher plants and mosses (Hiscock, 1996). 2) The region of the shore directly above the highest water level and subject to wetting by spray or wave splash (Lincoln et al., 1998).Benthic
TerrestrialTerrestrialEnvironment
TidalStrengthTidal streams and water flow (range)The horizontal movement of water associated with the meteorological, oceanographical and topographical factors. High water flow rates result in areas where water is forced through or over restrictions for example narrows or around protruding offshore rocks. Tidal streams are associated with the rise and fall of the tide where as currents are defined as residual flow after the tidal element is removed (Hiscock, 1996).Habitat
ToleranceToleranceBased on AMBIHabitat
TypeIType ISpecies very sensitive to organic enrichment and present under unpolluted conditions (initial state). They include the specialist carnivores and some deposit-feeding tubicolous polychaetes.Tolerance
TypeIIType IISpecies indifferent to enrichment, always present in low densities with non-significant variations with time (from initial state, to slight unbalance). These include suspension feeders, less selective carnivores and scavengers.Tolerance
TypeIIIType IIISpecies tolerant to excess organic matter enrichment. These species may occur under normal conditions, but their populations are stimulated by organic richment (slight unbalance situations). They are surface deposit-feeding species, as tubicolous spionids.Tolerance
TypeIVType IVSecond-order opportunistic species (slight to pronounced unbalanced situations). Mainly small sized polychaetes: subsurface deposit-feeders, such as cirratulids.Tolerance
TypeVType VFirst-order opportunistic species (pronounced unbalanced situations). These are deposit- feeders, which proliferate in reduced sediments.Tolerance
UltraShelteredUltra shelteredFully enclosed coasts with a fetch measured in tens or at most a few hundred metres.WaveSheltered
UnderBouldersUnder bouldersHabitat associated with the underside of boulders.FeaturesOther
UnderIceUnder iceThe habitat formed by the underside of ice sheets at the interface of frozen ice and fluid seawater.IceAssociated
UpperCircalittoralUpper circalittoralDominated by animals with sparse foliose algae except where grazed. The part of the circalittoral subzone on hard substrata distinguished by the presence of scattered foliose algae amongst the dominating animals; its lower limit is the maximum limit of depth for foliose algae (based on Hiscock, 1985).Circalittoral
UpperEulittoralUpper littoralBarnacles and limpets present in quantity with Fucus vesiculosus and Ascophyllum although often this belt has only sparse algal cover compared with the lower eulittoral (Hiscock, 1996).Eulittoral
UpperInfralittoralUpper infralittoralThe part of the infralittoral subzone which, on hard substrata, is dominated by Laminariales forming a dense canopy, or kelp forest (based on Hiscock, 1985).Infralittoral
UpperLittoralFringeUpper littoral fringeTop of the littoral fringe, characterized by Verrucaria maura with Littorina saxatilis and Littorina neritoides often present. May include saltmarsh species on shale/pebbles in shelter (Hiscock, 1996).Eulittoral
VerticalBiologicalZoneVertical biological zone (or zonation)A description of the vertical biological zone or zonation in which an organism resides. The zone is determined by depth, physical, chemical and biological factors.Distribution Descriptors
VeryExposedVery exposed1) Open coasts which face into prevailing winds and which receive wind-driven waves and oceanic swell without any offshore obstructions for several hundred kilometres, but where deep water is not close to the shore (50 m depth contour further than about 300 m). 2) Open coasts adjacent to extremely exposed sites but which face away from prevailing winds.WaveExposed
VeryShelteredVery shelteredCoasts with a fetch less than about 3 km where they face prevailing winds or about 20 km where they face away from prevailing winds, or which have offshore obstructions such as reefs or a narrow (<30°) open water window.WaveSheltered
VeryStrongVery strong>6 knots (>3 m/sec)TidalStrength
VeryWeakVery weakNegligibleTidalStrength
WaveExposedWave exposedDefined via traits - but included as some authors do not specify level of wave exposure.WaveExposure
WaveExposureWave exposureTraits that describe the range of exposure to wave action in which the organism is recorded.Habitat
WaveShelteredWave shelteredDefined via traits below - included as some authors do not specifyWaveExposure
WeakWeak<1 knot (<0.5 m/sec)TidalStrength

Ecological_Descriptors

Ecological Descriptors 
wikipagenameLabelDefinitionIs trait of
AccessoryFeedingStructuresAccessory feeding structuresOther structures such as palps, tentacles or a radiolar crown ("grooved palps"). There are forms of single pair of grooved palps nearly always attached dorsally or near the junction of the prostomium and peristomium, or multiple grooved palps sometimes forming a crown. Dorso lateral ciliated folds in the roof of the buccal cavity may be present in some polychaetes.Tentacles
AccretionAccretionAn organism that constructs reefs or raised beds of accreted materials, e.g. bound sand in Sabellaria spp.ReefBuilding
AerialDippingAerial dippingDipping
AerialHawkingAerial hawkingHawking
AggregationsAggregationsAn organism that constructs reefs and raised beds due to aggregation of large numbers of individuals via permanent or semi-permanent attachment e.g. mussels, oysters and Crepidula beds.ReefBuilding
AlgalGravelAlgal gravelConstructs deep beds of calcareous algal nodules, e.g. maerl bedsBedForming
AmbusherAmbusherSedentary or sessile predators, that wait for prey to come to them, and may or may not use a final pounce, traps or lures (e.g. sea anemones, large hydroids, spiders)Predator
AmorphousCaCO3Amorphous CaCO3calcium carbonate that lacks a crystalline structure, or whose internal is so irregular that there is no characteristic external form. The term does not preclude the existence of any degree of order (Derived from Neuendorf et al. 2005)CalcareousSkeleton
AnchorShapedAnchor-shapedE.g. Ceratium spp.BodyShape
AppendagesPaddlesAppendages (paddles)Swimming is effected one or more pairs of appendages (legs or paddles) e.g. the pleiopods of Isopod, Amphipod or Decapod crustaceans, or the legs of amphibious vertebrates.Swimmer
AragoniteAragonitea crystalline form of calcium carbonate, e.g. one of the constituents of mollusc shells.CalcareousSkeleton
ArborescentArbuscularArborescent/ArbuscularHaving the shape or characteristics of a tree.Erect
AristolesLanternAristotle's lanternSpecialist - sea urchinsFeedingApparatus
ArmsAppendagesArms or appendagesTraits that describe specialized limbs or appendages used to catch or process food items.FeedingApparatus
ArticulateArticulateJointed, arthrous (Holmes, 1979).BodyShape
AutotrophAutotrophSelf-feeding. An organism capable of synthesizing complex organic substances from simple inorganic substrates (Lincoln et al., 1998).FoodTypeDiet
BallooningKitingBallooning/KitingUse of a length of silk to be carried by the wind (e.g. spiders)Drifter
BeakBeake.g. birds / cephalopodsMouthParts
BedFormingBed formingAn organism that lives in large aggregations or beds (e.g. brittlestars, mussels, oysters, Crepidula etc, sea squirts)Biogenic
BiodiffusorBiodiffusorOrganisms whose activities that cause constant and random local sediment biomixing over short distances resulting in transport of sediment particles, analogous to molecular or eddy diffusion (from Kristensen et al., 2012). Includes epifaunal biodiffusers e.g. fiddler crabs; surficial biodiffusers e.g. Echinocardium; and gallery biodiffusers e.g. Nereis (Hediste) diversicolor.SedimentReworking
BiogenicBio-genicHabitat features created by living thingsHabitatModification
BitingMaceratingBiting or maceratingMouth parts designed to grasp and macerate food before swallowing (e.g. most vertebrates)MouthParts
BitingPiercingPiercing or suctorialMouth parts designed to pierce outside of food or prey and feed on internal fluids or tissuesMouthParts
BivalvedBivalvedCharacteristically a shell of two calcareous valves joined by a flexible ligament.BodyShape
BlindEndedVentilationBlind-ended ventilationOrganisms that live in 'I' or 'J' shaped burrows open at only one end where water is drawn through or diffuses out of the sediment e.g. Arenicola marina (adapted from Kristensen et al., 2012).SedimentReworking
BodyAccretionAccretionBuild up or accumulation of sediment.BodyShape
BodyAlgalGravelAlgal gravelMaerl; twig-like unattached (free-living) calcareous red algae, often a mixture of species and including species which form a spiky cover on loose small stones - 'hedgehog stones'.BodyShape
BodyFormBody formTraits relating to the form, shape and structure of the speciesEcological Descriptors
BodyShapeBody shapeOverall shape of the individual or colony (modular forms)BodyForm
BrowserBrowserFeeding on parts of plants (e.g. shoots, leaves, twigs) or parts of other organisms (e.g. siphon nipping by fish). (Lincoln et al., 1998).GrazerBrowser
BuccalOrgansAbsentBuccal organ absent or occludedThe buccal cavity lacks obvious differentiation of the wall and it is not eversible. Some species if buccal cavity present at all, is only a transient larval structure and becomes completely occluded.EversiblePharynx
BullateSaccateBullate/SaccateBalloon or sac-like (Prescott, 1969).BodyShape
BurrowBuilderBurrow builderAn organism that constructs permanent or semi-permanent burrows through physical excavation or chemical action.HabitatModification
BurrowerBurrowerAn organism that moves through the substratum by burrowing or tunneling (e.g. earthworms, polychaetes).Mobile
Bysso-PelagicBysso-pelagicUse of a length of byssus thread (e.g. micro-molluscs, juvenile molluscs) or mucus (e.g Nemertesia planulae) to be carried by water flowDrifter
CalcareousCalcareousAn organism that constructs reefs or biogenic structures composed of the calcareous skeletons of individuals or colonies (e.g. corals)ReefBuilding
CalcareousSkeletonCalcareousSkeleton composed of calcareous spicules (sponges/echinoderms), plates, spines, bones or other structuresSolid
NonSolidCement
NonSolidParticlesComp
CalciteCalcitecrystalline form of calcium carbonate, e. g. one of the constituents of mollusc shells and the skeletons of calcareous sponges.CalcareousSkeleton
CapitateClubbedCapitate/ClubbedEnlarged or swollen at the apex, with a ‘head’, clubbed (Prescott, 1969).BodyShape
CaptaculaCaptaculaspecialist - scaphopodsFeedingApparatus
CarnivoreCarnivoreAn organism that feeds on animal tissue/meat.Heterotroph
CephalicSpinesCephalic spinesspecialist - chaetognathsFeedingApparatus
ChainsChainsForming chains of individualsBodyShape
ChemoautotrophChemoautotrophAn organism that obtains metabolic energy from oxidation of inorganic substrates such as sulphur, nitrogen or iron (e.g. some micro-organisms) (Lincoln et al., 1998).Autotroph
ChitinousChitinouscomposed of chitin, a long-chain polymer of N-acetylglucosamine. It is the chief polysaccharide in fungal cell walls and in the exoskeleton of arthropods (derived form Lawrence, 2005).Solid
ChoanocytesChoanocytesSpecial feeding cell of spongesFeedingApparatus
CiliaFlagellaCilia/FlagellaSwimming is effected by beating of cilia and or flagella; includes the fused cilia of Ctenophores.Swimmer
ClathrateClathrateLatticed (Holmes, 1979).BodyShape
ClawedClawede.g. MammalsGraspingPaws
Colonial (e.g. sea birds)Colonial (e.g. sea birds)Organisms that come together in large colonies (100 plus individuals) - often in the same area from season to season - usually for breeding purposesGregarious
Commensal (with/on/in)Commensal (with/on/in)Symbiosis (q.v.) in which one species derives benefit from a common food supply, whilst the other species is not adversely affected (Lincoln et al., 1998).Symbiotic
ConeHalfSphereCone with half sphereCone with a half sphere (Olenina et al., 2006).BodyShape
ConicalCone (Conical)Cone shaped e.g. limpet-shaped, patelliform (adapted from Stachowitsch, 1992).BodyShape
ContactDippingContact dippingDipping
CoralSandsCoral (or similar) sandsDeposition of sands formed by the breakdown to the skeletons of living organismsBedForming
CrawlerWalkerClimberCrawler/Walker/ClimberAn organism that moves across, up or down the substratum via movements of its legs, appendages or muscles (e.g. Carcinus).Mobile
CreeperCreeperAn organism that moves slowly or 'creeps' across the surface of the substratumMobile
CruisingCruisingcopepod / zooplankton specific??SearcherForager
CrustoseHardCrustose hardForming or resembling a crust (Thompson, 1995) that is solid or resistant to touch or pressure e.g. encrusting coralline algae or sea mats such as Umbonula littoralis.Encrusting
CrustoseSoftCrustose softForming or resembling a crust (Thompson, 1995) that yields to the touch or pressure e.g. the gelatinous colonies of Botryllus schlosseri or soft cushions of sponges such as Halichondria sp.Encrusting
CtenidiaCtenidiae.g bivalve molluscsGills
CushionCushionA mass or pillow of soft material.Encrusting
CylindricalCylindricalWith straight sides and a circular section (Thompson, 1995).BodyShape
DabblingDabblingSeabirds/waders?SearcherForager
DeOxygenationToleranceDe-Oxygenation ToleranceMin ValueEcophysiology
DendroidDendroidBranching irregularly – similar to that of a root system (Prescott, 1969).BodyShape
DependancyDependencyDescription of an organism's relationship with other organismsModeOfLife
DepositFeederDeposit FeederAn organism that feeds on fragmented particulate organic matter within or on the substratum (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).FeedingMethodBehaviour
DetritivoreDetritivoreAn organism that feeds on fragmented particulate organic matter (detritus) (Lincoln et al., 1998).Heterotroph
DielDielDaily, pertaining to a 24 hour period.Migratory
DigitateDigitateHaving parts arranged like fingers on a hand (Holmes, 1979).BodyShape
DippingDippingseabird specific?PursuitHunterCooperative
DippingToSurfaceDipping to surfaceDipping
DispersalPotentialAdultDispersal potential (adult)The distance over which the adult organism is able to roam, travel or disperse; the greatest potnetial or recorded distance. Does not acknowledge limitations due to geography, hydrography, or behavioural (territorial) constraints.Movement
DivingDivingSeabird specific?PursuitHunterCooperative
DoubleConeDouble coneDouble cone (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
DownwardConveyorDownward conveyorOrganisms that live vertically in the sediment, typically heads-up at the surface, and that ingest particles at the surface and egest them as faeces at depth in the sediment (adapted from Kristensen et al., 2012).SedimentReworking
DrifterDrifterAn organism whose movement is dependent on wind or water currents (e.g. Aurelia).Mobile
DrivingFishForwardDriving Fish Forwardseabird, cetaceans?PursuitHunterCooperative
Ecological DescriptorsEcological DescriptorsCollection of traits relating to species ecologyMarine species traits
EcologicalInteractionEcological InteractionTraits relating to how a species interacts with it's surrounding environment and other associated species.Ecological Descriptors
EcophysiologyEcophysiologyTraits that describe an physiological and environmental tolerance of an organismEcological Descriptors
EctoparasiticEctoparasiticParasitic on the outer surface of its host (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).Parasite
EncrustingEncrustingForms or resembles a crust over a substratum or other organismsBodyShape
EndoparasiticEndoparasiticParasitic within the tissues or organs of its host (see Lincoln et al., 1998).Parasite
EndoskeletonEndoskeletoninternal structure that supports the body of an organismSupportingStructuresEnclosures
ErectErectMain visible parts of organism stand upright and above the surface of the substratum.BodyShape
EversiblePharynxEversible pharynxPharynx can be everted to engulf and/or seize food itemsFeedingApparatus
ExoskeletonExoskeleton (including shells)A rigid external structure that supports and/or protects the body of an organism and that is mainly completely secreted by the epidermis (derived from Lawrence 2005).SupportingStructuresEnclosures
ExternalTubeExternal TubeA built-structure inhabited by an organism and essential to its survival, but not part of its body, composed of hardened (either rigid or flexible) secretions, with or without the addition of embedded particles, with those particles either selectively collected from the environment or passively becoming glued during formation (pers. comm. Read, G.).SupportingStructuresEnclosures
FaunalBedsFaunal bedsDense aggregation of animals that visually dominate the seabed or shore such as brittlestars (e.g. Ophiothrix fragilis ) or mussels (e.g. Mytilus edulis).BodyShape
FeedingFeedingTraits related to how an organism feeds, the food type and feeding method exhibited by a speciesEcological Descriptors
FeedingApparatusFeeding apparatusDescription of the apparatus (mechanism) used to collect/capture foodFeeding
FeedingMethodBehaviourFeeding Method/BehaviourA description of how the oganism gathers food, and from whereFeeding
FilerBasketFilter basketSpecialist e.g. sea squirtsGills
FiliformFiliformSlender and thread-like (Kozloff, 1996).BodyShape
FlabellateFlabellateShaped like a fan, fanlike (Brusca, 1980).BodyShape
FlaccidFlaccidSoft, limp, flabby (Brusca, 1980).BodyShape
FlattenedEllipsoidFlattened EllipsoidFlattened ellipsoid (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
FlexibilityFlexibilityAn indication of how far an organism can bend/flex without breaking or suffering damage - High (>45°) / Low (10 – 45°) / None (<10°)BodyForm
FloatingFloatingSeabirds/waderSearcherForager
FlyerFlightFlyer (Flight)An organism able to propel itself though the air e.g. using wings, such as winged insects, birdsMobile
FolioseFolioseBearing leaves or leaf-like structures; having the appearance of a leaf.BodyShape
FollowingFishingBoatsFollowing Fishing BoatsSeabirdsSearcherForager
FoodPiracyFood PiracyStealing food from other birds in flightPursuitHunterCooperative
FoodTypeDietFood Type/DietDescription of the source of the organisms nurishment, i.e. what it feeds onFeeding
FootPaddlingFoot PaddlingSeabirds/WaderSearcherForager
FootStirringFoot StirringSeabirds/WaderSearcherForager
ForestForestA dense stand of large plants in which the upper branches (trees) or laminae (macroalgae) overlap to form a canopy that shades the under story of flora and fauna.Erect
ForestFormingForest-formingAn organism that forms a large area of close individuals forming a canopy (e.g. trees, large kelps).Biogenic
FragileFragileLikely to break, or crack as a result of physical impact; brittle or friable.Fragility
FragilityFragilityA qualitative estimate of the susceptibility of a species to physical damage.BodyForm
FreeLivingFree livingFree living - little modificationHabitatModification
FunnelShapedFunnel ShapedShaped like a funnelBodyShape
GillRakersGill rakersSpecialist - e.g. planktivorous fish such as basking sharkGills
GillsGillsWhere the respiratory organs also power and/or provide a feeding apparatus (muco-cilliary feeding)FeedingApparatus
GliderGliderAn organism that is able to glide through the air (e.g. using some form of membrane) but cannot propel itself through the air (e.g. flying fish)Mobile
GloboseGloboseApproximately spherical, ovoid or globular (Brusca, 1980).BodyShape
GorgoninGorgoninfibrous protein in the mesoglea of sea fans (gorgonians) which forms the stiff skeleton of the colony.Solid
GraspingGraspingTentacles that grab and grasp food itemsTentacles
GraspingClawsGrasping clawsAppendages bear grasping claws (chelae) - e.g. arthropods, crabs, scorpionsArmsAppendages
GraspingPawsGrasping paws, hands, feetVertebrate hands, feat, paws etc designed to grasp food items using claws, talons etc.ArmsAppendages
GrazerGrazerFeeding on herbage, algae or phytoplankton by consuming the whole plant or the surface growth (Lincoln et al., 1998)GrazerBrowser
GrazerBrowserGrazer/BrowserGenerally mobile consumers of sessile prey (e.g. plants, hydroids) cropping exposed tissues usually without killing the whole individual or colony.FeedingMethodBehaviour
GrazerFrondsBladesGrazer (fronds/blades)Animals that rasp benthic algae (or sessile animals, such as bryozoan crusts) from the surface of macroalgal fronds and blades (Hiscock et al., 1999).Grazer
GrazerGrainsParticlesGrazer (grains / particles)Animals that rasp benthic algae (or sessile animals, such as bryozoan crusts) from inorganic particles e.g. sand grains (MarLIN; Hiscock et al., 1999).Grazer
GrazerSurfaceSubstratumGrazer (surface/substratum)Animals that rasp benthic algae (or sessile animals, such as bryozoan crusts) from the substratum (MarLIN; Hiscock et al., 1999).Grazer
GregariousGregariousLiving in groups or communities, growing in clusters (Thompson, 1995) - where the organisms actively seek out members of the same species as adult or larvae/juveniles for protection from the environment, predators or for breedingSociability
GroundForagingGround Foragingseabirds?SearcherForager
GrowthFormGrowth form (or type)Deterministic growth or indeterminate growth resulting in single unitary individuals or modular (colonial) organisms.BodyForm
GrowthRateGrowth Rate(expressed as µm, mm, cm per day/month/year)Ecophysiology
HabitatModificationHabitat modificationA general term to describe how the organism lives in or interacts with its habitat (adapted from BIOTIC, Bolam et al., 2013).EcologicalInteraction
HalfConeHalf coneHalf cone (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
HalfConeFlattenedEllipsoidHalf cone with flattened ellipsoidHalf cone with flattened ellipsoid (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
HalfParallelepipedHalf parallelepipedHalf parallelepiped (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
HalfSphereDomeHalf sphere (dome)Half sphere (dome)BodyShape
HawkingHawkingPursuitHunterCooperative
HeightAboveSubstratumHeight (above substratum)Height above the surface of the substratum of an individual or single modular colony. e.g a blade of seagrass, a seaweed thallus, projecting tube worm, upright sea pen etc.BodyForm
HerbivoreHerbivoreAn organism which only feeds on plants, including phytoplankton.Heterotroph
HeterotrophHeterotrophAn organism that obtains nourishment from exogenous (external) organic material (Lincoln et al., 1998).FoodTypeDiet
HighMagnesiumCalciteHigh Magnesium CalciteCalcite where more then 8wt.% CaCO3 is substituted by MgCO3.CalcareousSkeleton
HostHostAn organism that provides food or shelter for another organisms, e.g. the inhabited symbiont. May be a definitive host infected by an adult stage or an intermediate host infected by life stages (see Lincoln et al., 1998).Support
HoverDippingHover dippingDipping
HoveringHoveringBird/insect specificPursuitHunterCooperative
HydrostaticHydrostatic skeletonSkeletal support provided by hydrostatic pressure from a fluid filled cavity (e.g. the coelum) surrounded by muscles. Hydrostatic pressure provides skeletal support in sea anemones, jellyfish, nematodes, annelids, echinoderms, and other groups.SupportingStructuresEnclosures
Independant (Free living)Independant (free living)Independant, individual organismsDependancy
InhalentSiphonInhalent siphonSpecialist - modified siphon to capture preyFeedingApparatus
InquilinistInquilinistA symbiotic association in which one symbiont lives in close association with another, generally in the tube or burrow or actually within a body chamber of the host (Brusca, 1980).Symbiotic
IntermediaryIntermediaryLiable to suffer minor damage, chips or cracks as result of physical impacts.Fragility
IntrovertIntrovertspecialist - sipunculansFeedingApparatus
JetPropulsionJet propulsionSwimming is effected by contraction of the body or body cavity to produce a 'jet' of water, e.g. medusae and cephalopods (from Barnes et al., 2006)Swimmer
Jumper/HopperJumper/HopperOrganisms able to undertake a rapid jump or hop several times their own body length, using specialised limbs or appendages (e.g. sand hoppers, spring tails, grass hoppers etc)Mobile
KeratinousKeratinouscomposed of keratin, a fibrous protein rich cysteine constituent of intermediate filaments (keratin filaments), chief material in horn, hair, nails and the upper layer of skin (derived from Lawrence, 2005).Solid
KleptoparasitismKleptoparasitismIn which the female of one species steals the food reserves or prey of a female of another species, to feed her own progeny (Lincoln et al., 1998)FeedingMethodBehaviour
LanceolateLanceolateLance shaped and usually elongate (Brusca, 1980).BodyShape
LargeInsectColoniesLarge (insect colonies)Large colonies of indivduals cooperating for mutual benefit, made up of thousnads or more individuals, often with a dominant matriach, e.g. social incests , bees etc.SocialGroup
LophophoreLophophoreSpecialist - filter feeding organ e.g. brachiopods, phoronids, bryozoansFeedingApparatus
LuresLuresAn organism that uses a lure to attract prey within range of its 'pounce' attackPouncing
MassiveMassiveBulky (Homes, 1979).BodyShape
MatMatA dense mass which blankets the substratum.Encrusting
MedusiformMedusiform/MedusoidDisk, bell or umbrella shaped and often gelatinous (Barnes et al., 1988).BodyShape
MigratoryMigration (migratory)Periodic movement of organisms between alternative habitats e.g. between areas for reproduction and one or more areas of non-reproductive activity, or between areas of foraging and areas used for other activities. Most migrations occur at predictable intervals triggered by stimuli e.g. unfavourable conditions. NB: Movements that do not include an obligatory return journey are classified as dispersal (Baretta-Bekker et al., 1992).Movement
MixedCalcareousMaterialMixed Calcareous MaterialSkeleton composed of a mixture of any of aragonite, calcite, high magnesium calcite or amorphous CaCO3CalcareousSkeleton
MixotrophMixotrophAn organism that exhibts both autotrophy and heterotrophyFoodTypeDiet
MobileMobileCapable of movementMobility
MobilityMobilityMovement
ModeOfLifeMode of LifeTraits relating to the mode of life a species exhibitsEcological Descriptors
ModularModularOrganisms that grow by the repeated iteration of parts, e.g. the leaves, shoots and branches of a plant, the polyps of a coral or bryozoan. Modular organisms are almost always branched, though the connections between branches may separate or decay and the separated parts may in many cases then become physiologically independent (Begon et al., 2005).Growth Form
MonoraphidioidMonoraphidioidResembling a crescent moon (see Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
MouthPartsMouth partsTraits that describes specialized mouth partsFeedingApparatus
MovementMovementTraits relating to the movement of the speciesEcological Descriptors
MucusMeshMucus mesh or netSecretion of a simple or complex mucus mesh to filter food particles from water column (e.g polychaetes Chaetopterus and larvaceans.FeedingApparatus
Muscular Contraction (body length)Muscular contraction (body length)Swimming is effected by muscular contractions along the length of the body, which may be aided by body protrusions or structures (e.g. parapodia, fins).Swimmer
MuscularAxialProboscisMuscular axial proboscisThe proboscis has thickened, strongly muscular walls and can be retracted into a sheath. In other cases the pharynx is partially retracted and partially inverted. The mouth proper is located at the tip of the pharynx when fully everted. While some taxa have a jaw-less proboscis, others have jaws present as a bilaterally arranged pair, as one or two dorso-ventrally arranged pairs or as two pairs forming a cross.EversiblePharynx
MutualistMutualismMutualist (mutualism)A symbiosis in which both organisms benefit; frequently a relationship of complete dependence. (Lincoln et al., 1998) (cf.symbiosis, commensalism, parasite).Symbiotic
NonMigratoryResidentNon-migratory (resident)Remaining within the same area (from Lincoln et al.,1998).Migratory
NonSolidCementNon-solid; cementcomponent that keeps the agglutinated particles of the non-massive skeleton together.Exoskeleton
Endoskeleton
ExternalTube
NonSolidParticlesCompNon-solid; particlessmall and individual structural elements that function as supporting structure/enclosure, e.g. spicules in sponges.Exoskeleton
Endoskeleton
ExternalTube
NonTerritorialNon-TerritorialIndependent without a defined territorySolitary
NonfeedingNon-FeedingNon-feeding life stages (e.g. lecithotroph)FeedingMethodBehaviour
OmnivoreOmnivoreAn organism which feeds on a mixed diet including plant and animal material (from Lincoln et al., 1998).Heterotroph
OntogeneticMigrationOntogenetic migrationDifferent life stages migrate into different habitats, or part of habitat (e.g. copepods) (Lincoln et al., 1998).Migratory
OpenEndedVentilationOpen-ended ventilationOrganisms that live in a 'U' or 'Y' shaped burrow where water is drawn through the burrow (adapted from Kristensen et al., 2012).SedimentReworking
OralPodiaOral podiaSpecialist - modified tube feet in holothuriansTentacles
OrganicOrganic(1) derived from, or showing the properties of a living organism; (2) containing carbon, applied to molecules.NonSolidCement
OtherOtherDrifter
OvalCylinderOval cylinderAn ellipsoid on an elliptic base (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
PalpsPalpsSpecialist - Protobranch molluscsTentacles
PapillaePapillae or tube feetAppendages bear mucus laden papilae or tube feet (e.g. suspension feeding echinoderns, brittlestars, crinoids).ArmsAppendages
ParallelepipedRhomboidParallelepiped (rhomboid)In geometry, a parallelepiped is a three-dimensional figure formed by six parallelograms (the term rhomboid is also sometimes used with this meaning)BodyShape
ParasiteParasiticAn organism that is intimately associated with, and metabolically dependent on, another organism (termed the host) for completion of its life cycle and which is detrimental to the host (see Lincoln et al., 1998)Dependancy
ParasiticFeedingParasiticAn organism that is intimately associated with, and metabolically dependant on another living organism, for completion of its life cycle, and which is detrimental to the host to a lesser or greater extent.FeedingMethodBehaviour
ParasitoidParasitoidAn organism intermediate between a parasite and a predator; e.g. hymenopterans where the larvae feed within the tissue of a living host, leading to the death of the host (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).FeedingMethodBehaviour
PassivePassiveCatching food on a filter held into flowing water (e.g. hydroids, sea fans, sea pens), or collecting the 'rain' of detritus on sticky apparatus other than a filter (e.g. Cucumaria frondosa, proboscis of echinurans) (MarLIN; Hiscock et al. 1999).SuspensionFeeder
PassiveDrifterPassive drifterMovement dependent on wind or water currentsDrifter
PatteringPatteringseabirds/waderSearcherForager
PenicillatePenicillateBrush like (Prescott ,1969).BodyShape
PhagocytosisPhagocytosisEngulfing prey/food item in cytoplasmFeedingApparatus
PhosphaticPhosphaticcomposed of phosphoric acid or phosphates.Solid
PhotoautotrophPhotoautotrophAn organism that obtains metabolic energy from light by a photochemical process such as photosynthesis (e.g. seaweeds, phytoplankton) (Lincoln et al., 1998).Autotroph
PhotosyntheticPigmentPhotosynthetic pigment(s)Ecophysiology
PickingfromWaterSurfacePicking from the water surfaceSeabirds/waderSearcherForager
PiercingToxicPiercingSpecialist - modified radula used to inject toxins, e.g. cone shellsRadulae
PinnatePinnateBranching like a feather – an elongate main axis with lateral branches or lobes (Prescott, 1969).BodyShape
PinnateBranchingPinnate or branchingBranched tentacles, used as filtration mechanismTentacles
PisciformPisciformFish-likeBodyShape
PlungeDivingPlunge DivingPlunging
PlungingPlungingSeabird specific?PursuitHunterCooperative
PouncingPouncingAn ambush predator that uses a sudden, rapid movement to 'pounce on, grab or swallow' its prey once the prey in within short range.Ambusher
PredatorPredator (Hunter)Predatory behaviour in which one animal species captures a member of another species (Lincoln et al., 1998). OR mobile animals that attack kill and consume individual prey items, usually one at a time.FeedingMethodBehaviour
ProbingProbingseabirds/waderSearcherForager
PursuitDivingPursuit DivingDiving
PursuitHunterCooperativePursuit hunter (co-operative)An organism that hunts in a team, pack, pod, flock, swarm etcPredator
PursuitHunterIndividualPursuit Hunter (individual)An organism that chases after, catches and subdues mobile prey (e.g. predatory polychaetes, squid, fish, otter, seal, seabirds)Predator
PursuitPlungingPursuit PlungingPlunging
RadialRadialSymmetrical about any plane passed perpendicular to the oral/aboral axis (Barnes et al., 1993).BodyShape
RadulaeRadulaeSpecialist - protrusile anterior region of digestive tract; refers to chitinized teeth along the radular membrane (Stachowitsch, 1992).FeedingApparatus
RaspingRaspingspecialist - rasping radulla of grazing molluscsRadulae
ReefBuildingReef-buildingAn organism that forms large areas of hard substratum for other organisms due to the scale of its aggregations (e.g. horse mussels), accretions (e.g. Sabellaria) or its skeleton (e.g. corals).Biogenic
RegeneratorRegeneratorOrganisms that excavate and maintain burrows in the sediment, which result in sediment transport from depth to the surface (adapted from Kristensen et al., 2012.SedimentReworking
ReticulateReticulateIn the form of a mesh or net (Prescott, 1969).BodyShape
RobustRobustUnlikely to be damaged as a result of physical impacts, e.g. hard or tough enough to withstand impact, or leathery or wiry enough to resist impact.Fragility
RotationalEllipsoidRotational ellipsoidRotational ellipsoid (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
SaprophageSaprophageAn organism that feeds on dead or decaying organic material (see Lincoln et al., 1998).Heterotroph
ScavengerScavengerAn organism that feeds on carrion and organic refuse (e.g. crabs, whelks) (Lincoln et al., 1998).FeedingMethodBehaviour
SearcherForagerSearcher/ForagerActive foragers that seek out prey usually of lower mobility (than themselves) e.g. arthropods (crabs, spiders) gastropods, starfishPredator
SeasonalEnvironmentSeasonal (environment)A seasonal migration in order to remain within suitable environmental conditions.Migratory
SeasonalFeedingSeasonal (feeding)A seasonal migration for the purpose of following food or moving to suitable feeding groundsMigratory
SeasonalReproductionSeasonal (reproduction)A seasonal migration in order to reproduce.Migratory
SedimentReworkingSediment reworkingDescription of how an organism modifies or changes the physico-chemical nature of the habitat itself, e.g sediment reworking, deposition of faeces, or burrowingHabitatModification
SeizingSeizingSeabird specific - probably not - large predators that pounce and grab alsoPursuitHunterCooperative
SessileSessileNon-motile; permanently attached at the base (Lincoln et al., 1998) (e.g. Caryophyllia).Mobility
SetoseSetose (Hairy)Appendages (arms, specialisted mothparts) used to capture suspended particulatesArmsAppendages
ShallowPlungingShallow plungingPlunging
ShrubShrubHaving a very short stem with branches near the ground (Thompson, 1995).Erect
SiliceousSiliceouscomposed of silicon based spines, spicules or lattice, e.g. siliceous or glass spongesSolid
SimpleAxialProboscisSimple axial proboscisA sac-like proboscis relying on fluid pressure from the coelom for eversion. There is no particular development of musculature or glands. The worms tend to have reduced septa in the anterior part of the body allowing the contruction of the posterior part of the body to exert considerable force on the proboscis because of the free movement of the coelomic contents. Muscles associated with a thickened first septum (gular membrane) and the proboscis are used for retraction.EversiblePharynx
SkimmingSkimmingseabirds/waderSearcherForager
SmallTribePridePackPodSmall (tribe/pride/pack/pod)Small group of individuals that work together for mutual benefit, often held together by familial (matriarchal/patriarchal) bonds (e.g. a pack or wolves, a pod of dolphin, a pride of lions, a tribe of humans).SocialGroup
SnatchingSnatchingAmbusher
SociabilitySociabilityTraits that describe an organism's behavioural interactions with members of the same species.ModeOfLife
SocialGroupSocial groupCooperative groups of the same species - e.g. social insects, mammalsSociability
SolidSolidmassive structure, e.i. not consisting of loose agglutinated particles.Exoskeleton
Endoskeleton
ExternalTube
SolitarySolitaryLiving alone, not gregarious (Thompson 1995).Sociability
SphereSphere (spherical)A sphere or globeBodyShape
SponginousSponginouscomposed of spongin, fibrous protein component of the horny sponges (derived from Lawrence, 2005).Solid
StacksStacksStacks of indivudal cells/frustules (e.g. in diatoms), like a pack of cards.BodyShape
StellateStellateArranged like a star.BodyShape
StickyMucusSticky or mucus coveredTentacles used to collect particluate food (e.g. polychaete deposit feeders)Tentacles
StingingStingingTentacles that bear stinging cells to catch, subdue prey (e.g. Cnidaria)Tentacles
StraplikeStraplike/RibbonlikeIn the form of a strap or ribbon.BodyShape
StunAttackStun attackAn organism that uses pulses of electricity or sound to stun prey (e.g. pistol shrimp)Ambusher
SubstratumSubstratumAn organism that provide substratum for specific other organisms, rarely found on other organisms, a ubiquitous relationship.Support
SubsurfaceDepositFeederSub-surface deposit feederAn organism that feeds on fragmented particulate organic matter within the substratum (e.g. Echinocardium cordatum) (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).DepositFeeder
SubsurfaceSeizingSubsurface seizingSeizing
SuctorialSuctorial (sucker bearing)Appendages that bear suckers on muscular arms to hold and subdue prey (e.g cephalopods)ArmsAppendages
SupportSupportAn organism that provides 'support' for other organisms, either as a host for a symbiote or parasite, or as substratum for epibiota.ModeOfLife
SupportingStructuresEnclosuresSupporting Structures and EnclosuresHard framework, internal or external, which supports and protects softer parts of plant, animal or unicellular organism, and to which muscles usually attach in animals, includes skeletons (derived from Lawrence, 2005).BodyForm
SurfaceDabblingSurface dabblingDabbling
SurfaceDepositFeederSurface deposit feederAn organism that feeds on fragmented particulate organic matter on the surface of the substratum (e.g. Corophium volutator) (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998).DepositFeeder
SurfaceDippingSurface dippingDipping
SurfaceDivingSurface DivingDiving
SurfacePlungingSurface plungingPlunging
SurfaceSeizingSurface seizingSeizing
SuspensionFeederSuspension feederOrganisms that strain food from the surrounding water. They can range in complexity from sponges and corals to baleen whales. They live on organisms or debris that drifts past them, or they seek out small floating or swimming organisms (Charton, 2001).FeedingMethodBehaviour
SwimmerSwimmerAn organism that moves through the water column via movements of its cilia, flagella, fins, legs or appendages, via undulatory movements of the body or via jet propulsion (e.g. Gadus, Loligo).Mobile
SwimmingSwimmingSeabirds/waderSearcherForager
SymbiontContributionSymbiont contributionWhere some dietary component(s) are provided by symbiotic organisms (e.g. Anemonia with zooxanthellae).Heterotroph
SymbioticSymbioticAn association between two organisms. The term may bused to describe all associations between organisms of the same or different species. It is usually reserved for associations that are mutually beneficial (adapted from Lincoln et al., 1998)Dependancy
TadpoleTadpoleHaving the body form of a tadpole i.e. consisting of a round head with a tail.BodyShape
TalonsTalonse.g. birdsGraspingPaws
TempRangeTemperature range toleratedMin/Max ValueEcophysiology
TemporaryAttachmentTemporary attachmentAn organism that can temporarily attach to a substratum but is able to release its attachment, and move across (or through) it (i.e. sedentary) (e.g. Actinia).Mobile
TentaclesTentaclesA slender, flexible limb or appendage in an animal, especially around the mouth of an invertebrate, used for grasping or moving about, or bearing sense organs (OED).FeedingApparatus
TerritorialTerritorialIndependent but maintains a defined territorySolitary
TrapezoidTrapezoid/Trapeziuma convex quadrilateral with at least one pair of parallel sides is referred to as a trapezoid in American and Canadian English but as a trapezium in EnglishBodyShape
TrapsTrapsAn organism that uses traps such as sticky threads or webbing (e.g. spiders)Ambusher
TruncatedConeTruncated coneCone with flattended top (Olenina et al., 2006)BodyShape
TubicolousTube dwelling (tubicolous)An organism that lives in a tube of its own construction (e.g. mucus, bound sand grains, Calcium carbonate etc).HabitatModification
TurbinateTurbinateWhorled (Brusca, 1980).BodyShape
TurfTurfThe lowest stratum of erect branching or filiform species.Erect
UnderwaterSeizingUnderwater seizingSeizing
UnderwaterSwimmingUnderwater swimmingSwimming
UnitaryUnitaryOrganisms that grow by a determinate pathway of development of a tightly canalized adult form, e.g. all arthropods and vertebrates (from Begon et al., 2005).Growth Form
UpwardsConveyorUpward conveyorOrganisms that live vertically in the sediment, typically head-down at depth in the sediment, and that transport particles from depth to the sediment surface (adapted from Kristensen et al., 2012).SedimentReworking
VariableVariablemixed and variable materialNonSolidParticlesComp
VentralBuccalOrganVentral buccal organvariable set of folds, musculature and glands, present on the ventral side of many polychaetes, is usually referred to as a ventral proboscis and is the most common form in Polychaetes. The ventral proboscis may be a simple eversible muscular pad, the outer end of these pharynges may be frilled and densely ciliated. Other species have the lateral walls of the proboscis folded and broadly connected ventrally to a deep buccal organ, others have a ventral proboscis also present.EversiblePharynx
VentralMuscularProboscisVentral muscular proboscisThe ventral and lateral walls of the buccal region are muscular and the lining is sclerotized into a varying number of eversible jaw pieces. The jaws are separated into a pair of ventral mandibles and two or more pairs of lateral maxillae.EversiblePharynx
VermiformVermiformWorm-likeBodyShape
VermiformAnnulatedVermiform annulatedWorm like but lacking true segments although annuli may be present, e.g. roundworms (Nematoda) and ribbon worms (Nemertea).Vermiform
VermiformSegmentedVermiform segmentedWorm-like with the body divided into semi-independent, serially repeated units (Barnes et al., 1993) e.g. Annelida.Vermiform
VermiformUnsegmentedVermiform UnsegmentedWorm-like where the external surface is divided into a chain of rings or 'annuli' by furrows giving the appearance of segments (Barnes et al., 1993).Vermiform
WadinginShallowWaterWading in shallow waterSearcherForager
WhiplikeWhiplikeIn the form of a whip.BodyShape

Species_Importance_To_Society

Species Importance To Society 
wikipagenameLabelDefinitionIs trait of
AbsentAbsentSpecies that were reported at some time to be present but were not recorded subsequently are reported to be ‘Absent’.Occurrence
AbundanceAbundanceAbundance and population trends of species populations have been recorded where this information was available.Introduced Species Catalog
AbundanceAndDistributionOfMarineMammalsAbundance and Distribution of marine mammals (M4)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
Adverse habitat modificationAdverse habitat modificationWhere the species physically alters the nature of the strata/habitat.Impact
AlienAlienSpecies introduced by man into places out of their natural range of distribution.Origin
Alters bio-geochemical/hydrologic cyclesAlters bio-geochemical/hydrologic cyclesWhere the species alters the nature of chemical or water cycles.Impact
Alters trophic interactionsAlters trophic interactionsWhere the species alters food web dynamics.Impact
Aquaculture: accidentalAquaculture: accidentalAlien and potentially invasive species that have accidentally escaped from containment/ aquaculture facility into the wild.Pathways/vector
Aquaculture: deliberateTraits:Pathways/vectorAlien and potentially invasive species that have been intentionally introduced for aquaculture.Pathways/vector
Aquatic transportAquatic transportWhere the species alters boat traffic or impedes ability of boats to navigate waterways.Impact
Bio-control: accidental translocation with deliberate bio-control releaseBio-control: accidental translocation with deliberate bio-control releaseWhere an introduction of a bio-control agent results in an unintentional introduction of an invasive species (which is carried directly on the bio-control agent itself or along with habitat material associated with the bio-control agent).Pathways/vector
Bio-control: deliberate translocation as a bio-control agentBio-control: deliberate translocation as a bio-control agentWhere a species (i.e. a bio-control agent) introduced to control a pest, weed or invasive species becomes a problem itself.Pathways/vector
BirdsDirectiveBirds DirectiveEurope is home to more than 500 wild bird species. But at least 32 % of the EU's bird species are currently not in a good conservation status. The Birds Directive aims to protect all of the 500 wild bird species naturally occurring in the European Union.Species Importance To Society
BirdsDirectiveAnnex1Birds Directive Annex 1194 species and sub-species are particularly threatened. Member States must designate Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for their survival and all migratory bird species.BirdsDirective
BirdsDirectiveAnnex2Birds Directive Annex 282 bird species can be hunted. However, the hunting periods are limited and hunting is forbidden when birds are at their most vulnerable: during their return migration to nesting areas, reproduction and the raising of their chicks.BirdsDirective
BirdsDirectiveAnnex3Birds Directive Annex 3Overall, activities that directly threaten birds, such as their deliberate killing, capture or trade, or the destruction of their nests, are banned. With certain restrictions, Member States can allow some of these activities for 26 species listed here.BirdsDirective
BirdsDirectiveAnnex4Birds Directive Annex 4The directive provides for the sustainable management of hunting but Member States must outlaw all forms of non-selective and large scale killing of birds, especially the methods listed in this annex.BirdsDirective
BirdsDirectiveAnnex5Birds Directive Annex 5The directive promotes research to underpin the protection, management and use of all species of birds covered by the Directive, which are listed in this annex.BirdsDirective
Border InterceptBorder InterceptSpecies that have been intercepted at borders as a result of detection procedures.Occurrence
CITESCITESCITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Appendices I, II and III to the Convention are lists of species afforded different levels or types of protection from over-exploitation.Species Importance To Society
CITESAppendixICITES Appendix IAppendix I lists species that are the most endangered among CITES-listed animals and plants (see Article II, paragraph 1 of the Convention). They are threatened with extinction and CITES prohibits international trade in specimens of these species except when the purpose of the import is not commercial (see Article III), for instance for scientific research. In these exceptional cases, trade may take place provided it is authorized by the granting of both an import permit and an export permit (or re-export certificate). Article VII of the Convention provides for a number of exemptions to this general prohibition.CITES
CITESAppendixIICITES Appendix IIAppendix II lists species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but that may become so unless trade is closely controlled. It also includes so-called "look-alike species", i.e. species whose specimens in trade look like those of species listed for conservation reasons (see Article II, paragraph 2 of the Convention). International trade in specimens of Appendix-II species may be authorized by the granting of an export permit or re-export certificate. No import permit is necessary for these species under CITES (although a permit is needed in some countries that have taken stricter measures than CITES requires). Permits or certificates should only be granted if the relevant authorities are satisfied that certain conditions are met, above all that trade will not be detrimental to the survival of the species in the wild. (See Article IV of the Convention)CITES
CITESAppendixIIICITES Appendix IIIAppendix III is a list of species included at the request of a Party that already regulates trade in the species and that needs the cooperation of other countries to prevent unsustainable or illegal exploitation (see Article II, paragraph 3, of the Convention). International trade in specimens of species listed in this Appendix is allowed only on presentation of the appropriate permits or certificates. (See Article V of the Convention)CITES
Canals: natural range expansion through man-made canalsCanals: natural range expansion through man-made canalsWhere a canal, by joining two bodies of water which were not originally naturally joined, becomes a conduit for invasive species migration to a new area/region.Pathways/vector
ChangeInAverageTrophicLevelOfMarinePredatorsInTheBayOfBiscayChange in average trophic level of marine predators in the Bay of Biscay (FW4)Common in OSPAR Region IVOSPARCommonIndicators
ChangesInBiodiversityIndexChanges in biodiversity index(s) (PH3)Common in OSPAR Region IIIOSPARCommonIndicators
ChangesInPlanktonFunctionalTypesIndexRatioChanges in plankton functional types (life form) index Ratio (PH1/FW5)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
CommonCommonA species with is abundant or present at moderate or relatively moderate densities.Abundance
Common to dominantCommon to dominantA species which is found in relatively moderate to high densities (accounts for non-discrete nature of abundance terms/parameters described here).Abundance
ConditionOfBenthicHabitatCommunitiesCondition of Benthic Habitat Communities (BH2)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
Consumes native species (predator or herbivore)Consumes native species (predator or herbivore)Where the species preys on native fauna or grazes on native flora.Impact
CriticallyEndangeredCritically Endangered (CR)A taxon is Critically Endangered when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Critically Endangered (see Section V), and it is therefore considered to be facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.IUCNRedList
Damage to marine structures or archaeologyDamage to marine structures or archaeologyWhere the species degrades marine infrastructures or archaeological sites.Impact
DataDeficientData Deficient (DD)A taxon is Data Deficient when there is inadequate information to make a direct, or indirect, assessment of its risk of extinction based on its distribution and/or population status. A taxon in this category may be well studied, and its biology well known, but appropriate data on abundance and/or distribution are lacking. Data Deficient is therefore not a category of threat. Listing of taxa in this category indicates that more information is required and acknowledges the possibility that future research will show that threatened classification is appropriate. It is important to make positive use of whatever data are available. In many cases great care should be exercised in choosing between DD and a threatened status. If the range of a taxon is suspected to be relatively circumscribed, and a considerable period of time has elapsed since the last record of the taxon, threatened status may well be justified.IUCNRedList
Debris: transport of species on human generated debrisDebris: transport of species on human generated debrisWhere floating rafts of man-made materials become vectors for an invasive species.Pathways/vector
Detected in invasion pathwayDetected in invasion pathwaySpecies detected in invasion pathways for example in ballast water, or as a hull-fouling organism.Occurrence
Detected in the wildDetected in the wildSpecies that have been recorded as present in the wild with no further information.Occurrence
DominantDominantA species which is very abundant or present at high densities or relatively high densities.Abundance
EndangeredEndangered (EN)A taxon is Endangered when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Endangered (see Section V), and it is therefore considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.IUCNRedList
EradicatedEradicatedSpecies that have been subject to an eradication event and have been confirmed as eradicated.Occurrence
Eradication unconfirmedEradication unconfirmedSpecies that have been subject to an eradication event but have not been confirmed as eradicated.Occurrence
EstablishedEstablishedSpecies that have become established in their introduced range.Occurrence
Established and expandingEstablished and expandingSpecies that have become established in their introduced range and are known to be increasing in abundance and expanding their range.Occurrence
Established and stableEstablished and stableSpecies that have become established in their introduced range but are not known to be spreading aggressively.Occurrence
ExtentOfPhysicalDamageToPredominantAndSpecialHabitatsExtent of Physical Damage to Predominant and Special Habitats (BH3)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
ExtinctExtinct (EX)A taxon is Extinct when there is no reasonable doubt that the last individual has died. A taxon is presumed Extinct when exhaustive surveys in known and/or expected habitat, at appropriate times (diurnal, seasonal, annual), throughout its historic range have failed to record an individual. Surveys should be over a time frame appropriate to the taxon’s life cycle and life form.IUCNRedList
ExtinctInTheWildExtinct in the Wild (EW)A taxon is Extinct in the Wild when it is known only to survive in cultivation, in captivity or as a naturalized population (or populations) well outside the past range. A taxon is presumed Extinct in the Wild when exhaustive surveys in known and/or expected habitat, at appropriate times (diurnal, seasonal, annual), throughout its historic range have failed to record an individual. Surveys should be over a time frame appropriate to the taxon’s life cycle and life form.IUCNRedList
ExtirpatedExtirpatedSpecies that were present but have been declared extinct.Occurrence
FAOASFISSpeciesForFisheryStatisticsPurposesFAO-ASFIS: Species for Fishery Statistics PurposesThe FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Statistics and Information Branch (FIAS) collates world capture and aquaculture production statistics at either the species, genus, family or higher taxonomic levels in 2 346 statistical categories (2019 data release) referred to as species items. ASFIS list of species includes 12 771 species items selected according to their interest or relation to fisheries and aquaculture. For each species item stored in a record, codes (ISSCAAP group, taxonomic and 3-alpha) and taxonomic information (scientific name, author(s), family, and higher taxonomic classification) are provided. An English name is available for most of the records, and about one third of them have also a French and Spanish name. Information is also provided about the availability of fishery production statistics on the species item in the FAO databases.Species Importance To Society
Fisheries: accidental as baitFisheries: accidental as baitThis is where an invasive species is used as a bait resulting in its introduction into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
Fisheries: accidental with deliberate translocations of fish or shellfishFisheries: accidental with deliberate translocations of fish or shellfishWhere in the process of stocking a fishery an associated invasive species is unintentionally introduced into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
Fisheries: accidental with fishery products, packing or substrateFisheries: accidental with fishery products, packing or substrateWhere an invasive species is unintentionally introduced into a new area/region as a result of the movement of fishery related products or materials (ie: not the direct movement of fisheries stock).Pathways/vector
Fisheries: deliberate translocations of fish or shellfish to establish or support fisheryFisheries: deliberate translocations of fish or shellfish to establish or support fisheryWhere an invasive species is intentionally introduced into a new area/region for the purpose of stocking/replenishing/establishing a fishery industry based on the invasive species.Pathways/vector
FluctuatingFluctuatingA species which exhibits fluctuating densities (either undefined in the literature or otherwise not mentioned in the abundance terms/parameters described here).Abundance
Genetic impacts: hybridisation and introgressionGenetic impacts: hybridisation and introgressionWhere the species degrades native genetic resources (by hybridizing with native fauna/flora).Impact
GreySealPupProductionGrey seal pup production (M5)Common in OSPAR Regions II, IIIOSPARCommonIndicators
HabitatsDirectiveHabitats DirectiveThe Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) ensures the conservation of a wide range of rare, threatened or endemic animal and plant species. Some 200 rare and characteristic habitat types are also targeted for conservation in their own right. All in all, over 1.000 animal and plant species, as well as 200 habitat types, listed in the directive's annexes are protected in various ways.Species Importance To Society
HabitatsDirectiveAnnexIHabitats Directive Annex I(needs a definition)HabitatsDirective
HabitatsDirectiveAnnexIIHabitats Directive Annex IIAnnex II species (about 900): core areas of their habitat are designated as sites of Community importance (SCIs) and included in the Natura 2000 network. These sites must be managed in accordance with the ecological needs of the species.HabitatsDirective
HabitatsDirectiveAnnexIIIHabitats Directive Annex III(needs a definition)HabitatsDirective
HabitatsDirectiveAnnexIVHabitats Directive Annex IVAnnex IV species (over 400, including many annex II species): a strict protection regime must be applied across their entire natural range within the EU, both within and outside Natura 2000 sites.HabitatsDirective
HabitatsDirectiveAnnexVHabitats Directive Annex VAnnex V species (over 90): Member States must ensure that their exploitation and taking in the wild is compatible with maintaining them in a favourable conservation status.HabitatsDirective
HabitatsDirectiveAnnexVIHabitats Directive Annex VI(needs a definition)HabitatsDirective
Human healthHuman healthWhere the species impacts human health.Impact
IUCNRedListIUCN Red ListProvides taxonomic, conservation status, and distribution information on taxa that are facing a high risk of global extinction. http://www.iucnredlist.org/Species Importance To Society
ImpactImpactInformation on the impact of introduced and invasive marine species has been recorded. These include impacts on native species, their habitats and ecosystems, human health and activity, transmission of diseases, etc. Descriptive terms of impacts were standardized and listed in a look-up table. These terms have been adapted from Hayes (2005).Introduced Species Catalog
In captivity/cultivatedIn captivity/cultivatedSpecies that have been introduced and maintained in captivity or cultivated for example those species that are farmed in aquaculture or mariculture facilities.Occurrence
Individual release: accidental release by individualsIndividual release: accidental release by individualsThis describes any situation in which an invasive species is "accidentally" set free in the wild from aquaria sources leading to its introduction into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
Individual release: deliberate release by individualsIndividual release: deliberate release by individualsThis describes any situation in which an invasive species is intentionally planted or set free in the wild leading to its introduction into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
Induces novel behavioural or eco-physiological responsesInduces novel behavioural or eco-physiological responsesWhere the species affects the behaviour of native species.Impact
Introduced Species CatalogIntroduced Species CatalogTerms and definitions used in the World Register of Introduced Marine Species (WRIMS).Species Importance To Society
Introduced country and/or sea areaIntroduced country and/or sea areaCountry or sea area that is recorded as the known introduced range of the species.Location Type
Introduction unverifiedIntroduction unverifiedSpecies whose presence is uncertain, maybe reported as present anecdotally but not confirmed.Occurrence
InvasiveInvasiveSpecies that are known to be invasive- those species in whose cases evidence of impact has been recorded or which is spreading aggressively.Invasiveness
InvasivenessInvasivenessTerms used to describe 'Invasiveness' of species.Introduced Species Catalog
Invasiveness Not specifiedInvasiveness Not specifiedA species whose 'invasiveness' has not been specified in its introduced range. The species is known to be present and has been reported but there is no comment on its invasiveness.Invasiveness
Invasiveness UncertainInvasiveness UncertainSpecies whose invasiveness is uncertain.Invasiveness
LeastConcernLeast Concern (LC)A taxon is Least Concern when it has been evaluated against the criteria and does not qualify for critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable or Near Threatened. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category.IUCNRedList
Locally commonLocally commonA species which is observed to have a patchy distribution in terms of being common only at some locations.Abundance
Location TypeLocation TypeThree location types have been recorded to describe the native range and known introduced range of the speciesIntroduced Species Catalog
Loss of aquaculture/commercial/recreational harvest or gainLoss of aquaculture/commercial/recreational harvest or gainWhere the species reduces aquaculture harvest or commercial/recreational gain.Impact
Loss of public/tourist amenityLoss of public/tourist amenityWhere the species degrades amenities associated with public/tourist sites.Impact
MSFDIndicatorsMSFD IndicatorsSpecies that comprise indicators or components of indicators for the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (http://ec.europa.eu/environment/marine/eu-coast-and-marine-policy/marine-strategy-framework-directive/index_en.htm), with emphasis on Descriptors 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6.Species Importance To Society
Management recordedManagement recordedSpecies for which some management action including prevention has been recorded in its introduced range.Invasiveness
MarineBirdAbundanceMarine bird abundance (B1)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
MarineBirdBreedingSuccessFailureMarine Bird Breeding Success / Failure (B3)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
MarineMammalBycatchMarine mammal bycatch (M6)Common in OSPAR Region IIOSPARCommonIndicators
MonocultureMonocultureA species which exists to the exclusion of all other species including dense mats or in 100% of survey counts.Abundance
NativeNativeSpecies that is native to the country or sea area.Origin
Native - EndemicNative - EndemicSpecies that is native and endemic to a country or sea area i.e. a species that is unique to a location or habitat.Origin
Native - Non-endemicNative - Non-endemicSpecies that is native to an area but is not endemic to it i.e. a species that has a wide native range.Origin
Native country and/or native sea areaNative country and/or native sea areaCountry or sea area which is the native range of the species.Location Type
Natural dispersalNatural dispersalWhere an invasive species migrates from a known introduced location to a new area/region using a natural mode/mechanism of dispersal; as the original location is part of its introduced range this pathway is included here.Pathways/vector
NearThreatenedNear Threatened (NT)A taxon is Near Threatened when it has been evaluated against the criteria but does not qualify for Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable now, but is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future.IUCNRedList
Not invasiveNot invasiveSpecies that has not demonstrated any invasive traits in its introduced range.Invasiveness
NotEvaluatedNot Evaluated (NE)A taxon is Not Evaluated when it has not yet been evaluated against the criteria.IUCNRedList
OSPARCommonIndicatorsOSPAR Biodiversity Common IndicatorsThe common indicators agreed by OSPAR for assessing the status of biodiversity in the North-East Atlantic cover marine mammals, seabirds, fish communities, seafloor habitats, pelagic habitats, non-indigenous species and food webs.

The biodiversity common indicators contributed assessments of the status biodiversity in the North-East Atlantic to the OSPAR Intermediate Assessment 2017. The assessments are published in the OSPAR Assessment Portal.

The indicators are based on information from monitoring programmes described in the Coordinated Environment Monitoring Programme (CEMP). The programmes are described in the Appendices to the CEMP Agreement. Detailed descriptions, including method descriptions for the indicator calculations, are included in the CEMP Guideline Agreements.
Species Importance To Society
OSPARListOfThreatenedAndOrDecliningSpeciesAndHabitatsOSPAR List of Threatened and/or Declining Species and HabitatsThe OSPAR Biological Diversity and Ecosystems Strategy sets out that the OSPAR Commission will assess which species and habitats need to be protected. This OSPAR List of Threatened and/or Declining Species and Habitats has been developed to fulfil this commitment. It is based upon nominations by Contracting Parties and observers to the Commission of species and habitats that they consider to be priorities for protection.Species Importance To Society
OSPARRegionIArcticWatersOSPAR Region I: Arctic WatersRegion I is the most northerly OSPAR region, characterised by its harsh climate and ice coverage although the ecosystems of this region are still rich. In spite of its low population density, human activities such as fishing and offshore petroleum production remain significant.OSPARListOfThreatenedAndOrDecliningSpeciesAndHabitats
OSPARRegionIIGreaterNorthSeaOSPAR Region II: Greater North SeaThe Greater North Sea is one of the busiest maritime areas. Offshore activities related to the exploitation of oil and gas reserves, and maritime traffic are very important. Two of the world's largest ports are situated on the North Sea coast, and the coastal zone is used intensively for recreation.OSPARListOfThreatenedAndOrDecliningSpeciesAndHabitats
OSPARRegionIIICelticSeasOSPAR Region III: Celtic SeasThe Celtic Seas region contains wide variations in coastal topography, from fjordic sea lochs, to sand dunes, bays, estuaries and numerous sandy beaches. The large range of habitats in the region supports a diverse fish fauna. Although traditional maritime activities, such as fishing, take place in the Celtic Seas, there is ongoing development of tourism.OSPARListOfThreatenedAndOrDecliningSpeciesAndHabitats
OSPARRegionIVBayOfBiscayAndIberianCoastOSPAR Region IV: Bay of Biscay and Iberian CoastThe bottom topography of Region IV and coastlines are highly diversified, including the continental shelf and slope and parts of the abyssal plain. Ecosystems in Region IV are very rich, support a rich fish fauna and have a particular importance for migratory birds. Main human activities in Region IV are fishing, maritime transport and tourism.OSPARListOfThreatenedAndOrDecliningSpeciesAndHabitats
OSPARRegionVWiderAtlanticOSPAR Region V: Wider AtlanticRegion V represents the deep waters of the North-East Atlantic extending across the abyssal plain and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and including many seamounts. There have been recent discoveries of a number of different fragile deep-sea habitats (such as hydrothermal vents, carbonate mounds, coral gardens and sponge communities). Human population in the region is restricted to the Azores Archipelago. The main human activities are fishing and maritime transport.OSPARListOfThreatenedAndOrDecliningSpeciesAndHabitats
OccurrenceOccurrenceTerms used to describe 'Occurrence' of species.Introduced Species Catalog
Occurrence Not specifiedOccurrence Not specifiedSpecies which may be listed as alien or introduced but whose occurrence has not been specified.Occurrence
Of concernOf concernSpecies that are demonstrating aggressive spread and there is concern about its spread OR species where some concern has been recorded- this may be due to known records of its invasiveness and impacts in other areas of their known introduced range.Invasiveness
OriginOriginTerms used to describe the 'Origin' of species.Introduced Species Catalog
Origin uncertainOrigin uncertainSpecies whose biological status is uncertain i.e. it is uncertain if the species is native or alien to the location.Origin
Origin unknownOrigin unknownSpecies whose origins cannot be verified OR a species whose origin has not been specified in the source information.Origin
Other impact - undefined or uncertainOther impact - undefined or uncertainWhere the species has a known but undefined or uncertain impact.Impact
Outcompetes native species for resources and/or spaceOutcompetes native species for resources and/or spaceWhere the species dominates or outcompetes native species for resources and/or space.Impact
Pathogen/parasite or carrier of a pathogen/parasitePathogen/parasite or carrier of a pathogen/parasiteWhere the species is a pathogen/parasite of native species or carrier of a pathogen/parasite which infects/parasitizes native species.Impact
Pathway/vector OtherPathway/vector OtherIn cases where pathway/vector is not specified/ cases of novel pathways/vectors.Pathways/vector
Pathway/vector UnknownPathway/vector UnknownUnknown mechanisms of introduction were represented by a blank cell.Pathways/vector
Pathways/vectorPathways/vectorOne of the most important types of information in the practical approach to prevention and management of biological invasions is the identity of the pathways of introduction and details of vectors. These are necessary for the prevention of introduction of potentially invasive species and also for the containment of further spread of established invasions. Information on pathways and vectors of introduction of alien species has been recorded for the listed species where information was available. Descriptive terms describing pathways and vectors were standardized and listed as a look-up table. These terms have been adapted from Hayes (2005).Introduced Species Catalog
PlanktonBiomassAndOrAbundancePlankton biomass and/or abundance (PH2)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
Plant introductions: accidental with deliberate plant translocationsPlant introductions: accidental with deliberate plant translocationsThis refers to invasive plant species which are unintentionally introduced into a new area/region carried on or with the habitat material of some intentionally planted flora.Pathways/vector
Plant introductions: deliberate translocation of plant speciesPlant introductions: deliberate translocation of plant speciesThis refers to plant species which are planted intentionally for some purpose resulting in the introduction of an invasive plant into a new area/region (e.g. for erosion control).Pathways/vector
Present/controlledPresent/controlledSpecies that are known to be present in their introduced range and are subject to some control option.Occurrence
ProportionOfLargeFishProportion of large fish (Large Fish Index) (FC2)Common in OSPAR Regions II, IIIOSPARCommonIndicators
RareRareA species which is present at low or relatively low densities; used to describe single occurrences of the species where appropriate.Abundance
Rare to commonRare to commonA species which is found in relatively low to moderate densities (accounts for non-discrete nature of abundance terms/parameters described here).Abundance
Rare to dominantRare to dominantA species which is fluctuates between relatively low to high densities (accounts for such phenomena as population explosions).Abundance
Recorded in errorRecorded in errorSpecies that have reported or recorded in error.Occurrence
RecoveryInThePopulationAbundanceOfSensitiveFishSpeciesRecovery in the population abundance of sensitive fish species (FC1)Common in OSPAR Region II, IIIOSPARCommonIndicators
Recreational equipment: accidental with recreational equipmentRecreational equipment: accidental with recreational equipmentWhere the movement of recreational equipment by humans results in the introduction of an invasive species into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
ReportedReportedSpecies that are 'reported' to be present but with no further information.Occurrence
Scientific research: accidental release with research activitiesScientific research: accidental release with research activitiesWhere research activities result in the unintentional release of an invasive species into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
Scientific research: deliberate release with research activitiesScientific research: deliberate release with research activitiesWhere research activities result in the intentional release of an invasive species into a new area/region.Pathways/vector
SealAbundanceAndDistributionSeal Abundance and Distribution (M3)Common in OSPAR Region IIOSPARCommonIndicators
Seaplanes: accidental as attached or free-living fouling organismsSeaplanes: accidental as attached or free-living fouling organismsThis refers to invasive species which exist as sessile or motile organisms on the surface of a seaplane.Pathways/vector
Ships: accidental as attached or free-living fouling organismsShips: accidental as attached or free-living fouling organismsThis refers to invasive species which exist as sessile or motile organisms on the hull of a ship.Pathways/vector
Ships: accidental associated with cargoShips: accidental associated with cargoThis refers to invasive species which are associated with internal ship cargo.Pathways/vector
Ships: accidental with ballast water, sea water systems, live wells or other deck basinsShips: accidental with ballast water, sea water systems, live wells or other deck basinsThis refers to invasive species which exist in various life stages in ballast of a fluid nature.Pathways/vector
Ships: accidental with solid ballastShips: accidental with solid ballastThis refers to invasive species which exist in various life stages in ballast of a solid nature.Pathways/vector
Ships: generalShips: generalThis accounts for an invasive species which has been vectored by a ship but the exact mechanism of action (ie: ballast, hull or cargo) has been unidentified in the literature.Pathways/vector
SizeCompositionInFishCommunitiesSize composition in fish communities (FW3)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
Sometimes presentSometimes presentSpecies that are reported as present but only 'sometimes'.Occurrence
Source country and/or sea areaSource country and/or sea areaCountry or sea area which is the known source area of the introduced species or population. The source area could be the native range of the species or a known introduced range.Location Type
Species Importance To SocietySpecies' Importance to SocietyMarine species traits
TrendsInNewRecordsOfNonIndigenousSpeciesIntroducedByHumanActivitiesTrends in New Records of Non-Indigenous Species (NIS) Introduced by Human Activities (NIS)Common in OSPAR Regions II, III, IVOSPARCommonIndicators
TypicalSpeciesCompositionTypical species composition (BH1)Common in OSPAR Region IVOSPARCommonIndicators
VulnerableVulnerable (VU)A taxon is Vulnerable when the best available evidence indicates that it meets any of the criteria A to E for Vulnerable (see Section V), and it is therefore considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild.IUCNRedList
Water abstraction or nuisance foulingWater abstraction or nuisance foulingWhere the species alters water levels or causes nuisance fouling on boats/water structures.Impact

references


References: 
  1. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I., 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd., Lincoln, R., Boxshall, G. & Clark, P., 1998. A dictionary of ecology, evolution and systematics (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University of Press.
  2. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd., Lincoln, R., Boxshall, G. & Clark, P., 1998. A dictionary of ecology, evolution and systematics (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University of Press.
  3. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  4. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  5. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd., Lincoln, R., Boxshall, G. & Clark, P., 1998. A dictionary of ecology, evolution and systematics (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University of Press.
  6. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  7. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd., Lincoln, R., Boxshall, G. & Clark, P., 1998. A dictionary of ecology, evolution and systematics (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Cambridge University of Press.
  8. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  9. Barnes R.S.K., Calow P., Olive P.J.W., Golding, D.W, and Spicer, J.I. 2006. The invertebrates: a new synthesis, Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd., Ruppert, E.E. & Barnes, R.D., 1994. Invertebrate zoology (6th ed.). Fort Worth, USA: Saunders College Publishing.
  10. Barnes, R.S.K., Calow, P. & Olive P.J.W., 1993. The invertebrates: a new synthesis. Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  11. Barnes, R.S.K., Calow, P. & Olive P.J.W., 1993. The invertebrates: a new synthesis. Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  12. Barnes, R.S.K., Calow, P. & Olive P.J.W., 1993. The invertebrates: a new synthesis. Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  13. Barnes, R.S.K., Calow, P. & Olive P.J.W., 1993. The invertebrates: a new synthesis. Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
  14. Barnes, R.S.K., Calow, P. & Olive P.J.W., 1993. The invertebrates: a new synthesis. Oxford: Blackwell Science Ltd.
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