European Marine Biodiversity Observatory Systems

Abstract

This article provides an overview of European Marine Biodiversity Observatory Systems. It explains why more attention should be focused on marine biodiversity and raises concern about the understudied marine realm. It builds on a historical perspective of the creation of networks of marine stations, as well as the need of harmonization among them. Finally, a few examples of successful projects and results obtained are given, followed by concluding remarks from the current situation to a future perspective.