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HAEDAT 2025 User Manual

Welcome to the official documentation for the Harmful Algal Event Database (HAEDAT).

HAEDAT is a core component of the IOC-UNESCO Harmful Algal Information System (HAIS). This modernized platform serves as the global reference for documenting and sharing information on harmful algal events worldwide.

Homepage of the Modernized HAEDAT Platform Figure: The HAEDAT homepage with summary statistics and navigation to the main public workflows.

Overview

The database contains records of harmful algal events from across the globe, including historical data from the ICES area (North Atlantic) since 1985 and the PICES area (North Pacific) since 2000.

In 2025, the system was rejuvenated to provide a more robust, geospatial, and interoperable experience. Key highlights of the new platform include:

  • Interactive Mapping: A new "Globe" projection for browsing events and detailed Grid Explorer for monitoring areas.
  • Scientific Accuracy: Direct integration with the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS) for accepted-species standardization, the local HAB reference snapshot for HAB membership, and the HAIS Toxins Database for chemical definitions.
  • Secure Access: A modern One-Time Password (OTP) login system for National Focal Points.
  • Annual Reporting: A structured workflow for countries to submit annual summaries of monitoring efforts.

Quick Start

If you are a National Editor or Focal Point, follow these steps to get started:

  1. Login: Use your registered email to receive a secure 6-digit access code.
  2. Dashboard: Access your "User Dashboard" to manage your drafts and published events.
  3. Submit: Use the multi-tab form to document new events with high scientific detail.
  4. Report: Complete your annual summary in the "National Reporting" module.

About this Manual

This manual is organized to support both public users browsing the data and National Editors managing records.

  • About HAEDAT: Understand the strict criteria for what constitutes a "Harmful Algal Event."
  • User Guide: Step-by-step instructions for data entry and platform navigation.
  • Technical Administration: Details for IT staff on data synchronization and system maintenance.

Last Updated: March 2026