What is HAEDAT?
The Harmful Algal Event Database (HAEDAT) is a meta-database containing records of harmful algal events from across the globe. It is a core component of the IOC Harmful Algal Information System (HAIS) and represents the only existing open-access database of its kind.
The primary goal of HAEDAT is to provide a standardized platform for National Editors to collate data from monitoring programmes, research projects, and industry reports into unified "events" for global analysis.
Figure: The HAIS ecosystem illustrating how HAEDAT connects with WoRMS and the HAIS toxins registry.
Defining a Harmful Algal Event
A harmful algal event has a strict definition within this system. To maintain scientific integrity, an entry must be associated with a negative or harmful impact on industry, biota, or society.
For example, the mere presence of toxin-producing species (without impact) or toxin levels in shellfish that remain below regulatory limits are not considered harmful algal events for entry into HAEDAT.
Entry Criteria
A HAEDAT event must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Water discoloration, scum, or foam causing a socio-economic impact due to the presence of toxin-producing or harmful microalgae.
- Precautionary closures of shellfish harvesting areas due to the presence of algal toxins and/or potentially harmful microalgae.
- Biotoxin accumulation in seafood above levels considered safe for human consumption.
- Negative impacts on organisms: Any event where humans, animals, or other organisms are negatively affected by microalgae.
Regional Networks
HAEDAT data is organized by established regional networks and historical monitoring areas. These networks ensure that data collection is harmonized across neighboring countries.
IOC HAB Networks
- ANCA: Caribbean network.
- FANSA: South American network.
- HANA: North African network.
- ICES: North East Atlantic (NEA), including the North Sea and Baltic; and North West Atlantic (NWA), including the Gulf of Mexico.
- PICES: North East Pacific (NEP) and North West Pacific (NWP).
OBIS Regions
The dataset can also be filtered by the 13 Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS) regions:
| ID | Region Name | ID | Region Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | East Coast America (ECA) | 8 | Indian Ocean |
| 2 | Central American Caribbean (CCA) | 9 | Benguela |
| 3 | South America (SAM) | 10 | West Coast Africa |
| 4 | West Coast America (WCA) | 11 | Mediterranean (MED) |
| 5 | Australia New Zealand (ANZ) | 12 | Europe (EUR) |
| 6 | Southeast Asia (SEA) | 13 | Pacific/Oceania (PAC) |
| 7 | North Asia (NAS) |
Data Management & Roles
Each participating country appoints a National Editor (or Focal Point). These editors are responsible for:
- Summarizing raw monitoring data into discrete events.
- Updating HAEDAT records annually.
- Providing metadata regarding monitoring practices and any changes to relevant industries.
For information on how to contact your regional representative or to inquire about becoming a National Editor, please see the Contacts section.