Literature-based trait dataset of marine holozooplankton from the European Arctic and sub-arctic regions
摘要
This dataset presents a region-specific compilation of functional traits for meso-holozooplankton in the European Arctic and sub-Arctic. Driven by high-latitude climate change, this resource aims to enhance ecological modeling of this vulnerable ecosystem. The database aggregates 3,425 citation-backed records structured across 30 traits, ascribed to 11 functional traits, capturing morphological, behavioral, life-history, and biochemical traits. In total, 242 unique zooplankton species spanning 87 taxonomic families (7 phyla, 13 classes, 26 orders) are covered. A crucial feature of the dataset is the inclusion of ontogenetic trait information, addressing the current knowledge gap for early developmental stages. The compilation prioritizes data from the Arctic region, utilizing a systematic literature review to ensure accuracy and reduce bias from global databases. By harmonizing trait definitions according to FAIR standards, and identifying gaps in existing knowledge, this dataset provides Arctic researchers with a valuable, traceable resource for understanding and predicting ecosystem functioning in rapidly changing high-latitude environments.