Avibase: A Comprehensive Database for Avian Taxonomy and Distribution
Avibase serves as a sophisticated digital repository designed to organize the complex world of avian biology. By integrating taxonomic data, nomenclature, and regional distribution, it provides a standardized framework for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts to track species across the globe.
Key Facts
- Contains approximately 58,000 unique taxonomic concepts.
- Records roughly 87,000 scientific names with associated citation data.
- Provides regional checklists for over 20,000 global regions.
- Supports common names in 271 different languages and regional variants.
- Offers MyAvibase, a free tool for maintaining personal life lists.
The Architecture of Taxonomic Concepts
At the core of the database is a system of taxonomic concepts. Unlike rigid species names, a taxonomic concept is a flexible method of grouping similar taxa (groups of one or more populations of an organism). This approach allows for a more nuanced biological circumscription—the process of defining the boundaries of a taxon.
To ensure accuracy across different publication sources, each concept is assigned a unique alphanumeric identifier known as an Avibase ID. This system allows the database to track congruent concepts even when nomenclature varies. These 58,000 concepts encompass not only recognized species and subspecies but also subspecies groups, historical taxonomic treatments, hybrids, color morphs, and forms considered invalid or dubious.
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Nomenclature and Global Distribution
Avibase maintains a rigorous record of nomenclature, the formal system of naming organisms. The database includes approximately 87,000 scientific names, each paired with its original description and citation data, as well as various synonyms to ensure comprehensive searchability.
Beyond naming, the platform provides extensive regional species checklists. These cover more than 20,000 regions, including all countries, territories, and dependencies. The granularity extends to GADM (Global Administrative Areas) subnational layers, such as states, provinces, and districts, as well as over 2,500 individual islands.
These checklists are compiled from diverse data streams, including the eBird EBD dataset and community-driven sources like the Facebook Global Rare Bird Alert. To maximize accessibility, common names are available in 271 languages, with 21 of those languages covering more than 85% of species that possess a known common name.
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MyAvibase: Tools for Birdwatchers
Launched in 2013, MyAvibase is a suite of free tools designed for the birding community. It allows users to maintain digital life lists and generate detailed reports. These tools are particularly useful for identifying target species that an observer has yet to encounter or for analyzing general regional statistics, such as the total number of species recorded within a specific country.
Avibase Data Summary
| Feature | Quantity/Scope |
|---|---|
| Unique Taxonomic Concepts | ~58,000 |
| Recorded Scientific Names | ~87,000 |
| Regional Checklists | 20,000+ regions |
| Language Support | 271 languages |
| Islands Covered | 2,500+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a taxonomic concept in Avibase?
A taxonomic concept is a flexible way of grouping similar taxa that represents a unique biological circumscription. It is tracked using a unique alphanumeric Avibase ID to maintain consistency across different sources.
How many languages does Avibase support for common names?
Avibase provides common names and synonyms in 271 different languages and regional variants, with 21 languages offering coverage for over 85% of species with known common names.
What regions are included in the species checklists?
Checklists cover over 20,000 regions, including all countries and territories, over 2,500 islands, and subnational divisions such as provinces, states, and municipalities (GADM levels 1 and 2).
Where does the regional checklist data come from?
The data is sourced from multiple outlets, including the eBird EBD dataset and community forums such as the Facebook Global Rare Bird Alert.
What is MyAvibase?
MyAvibase is a free tool launched in 2013 that enables users to manage their personal bird life lists and generate reports on target species or regional statistics.