MSFD Descriptor 1: Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Species Composition
The information gathered is part of Descriptor 1 of Commission Decision 2017/848/EU: specifically D1C6 (pelagic habitats). Plankton communities constitute an important component of such water column habitats, forming the base of marine foodwebs. The composition of these communities can provide a go…
This API provides access via a WMS service to data supporting Descriptor 1 (Biological diversity) of Commission Decision 2017/848/EU, specifically criterion D1C6 on pelagic habitats. It covers phytoplankton and zooplankton species composition around Malta, documenting plankton communities that form the base of marine foodwebs. Because the structure and composition of these communities respond to environmental change, they serve as indicators of the health of pelagic habitats. The dataset is maintained by the Planning Authority Malta and forms part of the national Marine Strategy Framework Directive monitoring programme for water-column habitats and biodiversity assessment.”
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