FishBase, accessible at https://fishbase.se, has emerged as a leading global database committed to providing comprehensive information about fish species. Established in 1996 and maintained by a team of scientists and collaborators, FishBase offers extensive data on over 34,000 fish species, including taxonomy, distribution, ecology, and biology. This wealth of information makes it an invaluable resource for researchers, educators, conservationists, and fishing enthusiasts worldwide.
The platform is particularly known for its user-friendly interface, allowing users to easily search for specific species or browse by categories. The inclusion of photographs, illustrations, and detailed life history data enhances its educational value. Additionally, FishBase plays a crucial role in efforts to conserve fish biodiversity by providing data that supports habitat protection and sustainable fishing practices.
While FishBase dominates as a primary fish species database, it faces competition from several other online repositories. Notable competitors include the ‘World Register of Marine Species’ (WoRMS), which focuses specifically on marine biodiversity and offers taxonomic information across various marine organisms. The ‘Integrated Taxonomic Information System’ (ITIS) also serves as a comprehensive taxonomy database that covers a broader range of organisms, including fish. Furthermore, platforms like ‘Global Biodiversity Information Facility’ (GBIF) provide extensive species occurrence records, though they do not specialize solely in fish. Despite the competition, FishBase remains a cornerstone for fish-related data, thanks to its specialized focus and extensive content.
Link to the website: fishbase.se
