One ocean, observed together.
MBON is a network of networks. Regional nodes monitor their own waters; thematic nodes cut across regions by method. All publish to shared standards so the data interconnects.
USA and worldwide regional nodes
Each node monitors its own waters and contributes biodiversity data to shared, open standards — connecting science across every ocean basin. Select a region to spin the globe.
9 regional networks
Pan-Arctic biodiversity observing across a rapidly changing ocean.
Monterey Bay sanctuary observing and Seascapes.
Nearshore observing from Long Island to Cape Cod.
Freshwater biodiversity at continental scale.
Cold-water shelf ecosystem and fisheries.
Wind-energy planning and shelf biodiversity.
Upwelling-driven productivity off Oregon and Washington.
CalCOFI-anchored monitoring of the Bight.
Southeastern United States, integrating fieldwork and satellite observations.
3 regional networks
Coral, kelp and seagrass monitoring across the Pacific rim.
The Marine Biodiversity Observation Network for Europe (MBON Europe) will spearhead coordination of active monitoring of marine biodiversity by organisations in Europe.
A network of networks spanning the Americas.
Cross-cutting science
MBON working groups advance shared methods, standards, and data products across all regional nodes — from eDNA protocols to acoustic monitoring to biodiversity indicators.
View all working groupsJoin the MBON network
MBON is an open community of practice — scientists, resource managers, data providers, and end-users all contribute and benefit. Whether you run a long-term observing program, develop data products, or manage marine resources, there is a role for you in the network.
Contribute observations
Publish biodiversity data to OBIS following MBON standard protocols. Regional nodes welcome new data providers who can commit to FAIR data sharing.
Join a working group
Active working groups cover eDNA, acoustic monitoring, BioTrack, BioSound, indicators, and data management. Meetings are open; contact the working group lead to join.
Partner at the global level
MBON is a thematic node of GEO BON and leads the Marine Life 2030 programme of the UN Ocean Decade. International organizations can partner through the MBON Secretariat (AIR Centre, Azores).