ESEP 18:9-13 (2018)  -  DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/esep00180

ABSTRACT: The sharing of marine mammal data is a worthwhile practice, but there are caveats. Data interpretation may be difficult, sometimes resulting in misleading information or inappropriate formulation of research questions. Here, we point out some of the challenges when dealing with shared marine mammal datasets. We emphasize the importance of collecting, publishing and sharing data in ways that can produce unbiased and meaningful knowledge, ultimately inspiring and directing management action. Finally, we suggest that bridging the gap between data sharing and data reuse will require enhanced spatially referenced online databases as well as direct collaboration between the data analysts and the field researchers who possess relevant place-based expertise.

KEY WORDS: Data sharing · Data reuse · Marine mammals · Mediterranean Sea · Public data archive · Reproducible science · Research network · Online database

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Cite this article as: Bearzi G, Gimenez O (2018) Searching for meaning in marine mammal shared data. Ethics Sci Environ Polit 18:9-13. https://doi.org/10.3354/esep00180 Export citation Share:    Facebook - - linkedIn