AlgaeTraits.org: a trait database for seaweed species

The analysis of functional traits is important in evolutionary and ecological research, as well as biodiversity conservation. However, trait data are often scattered and terminology is often not standardized across taxonomic groups or biogeographical regions. As part of the development of a global trait database of marine species, we collated trait information for European seaweeds and structured the data within the standardised framework of the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS). We collected 45,175 trait records for 21 biologically and ecologically relevant traits of seaweeds. This resulted in a trait database for 1,745 European seaweed species of which 56 % of the records were documented at the species level, while the remaining were documented at a higher taxonomic level and subsequently inherited at lower levels. This trait database will serve as a basis for future research on diversity and evolution of seaweeds and their responses to global changes. The data will contribute to developing detailed trait-based ecosystem models and will be an important tool to inform marine conservation policies. The data are publicly accessible through the AlgaeTraits portal, algaetraits.org (https://doi.org/10.14284/574).