Regarding your questions about our Node’s involvement in national reporting processes in Ecuador, here are the details:
1. What OBIS data/metrics are you providing?
We are currently focusing on Target 21 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). Specifically, we report on the complementary indicator: “Growth in marine species occurrence records accessible through OBIS.”
2. How are you extracting temporal trends (records ingested per year)?
Our approach differs slightly between platforms:
For GBIF: We rely on the official national snapshots and country summaries provided by the platform (GBIF Ecuador Summary).
For OBIS: We implemented a more automated workflow. Using an R script (developed with initial support from Pieter), we have automated the generation of monthly snapshots. All the code and documentation for this process are hosted on our Codeberg repository: gbif-ec/obis-ec.
3. Which KMGBF indicators use OBIS data in your country?
At the moment, only Target 21. We are still exploring methodologies or clear pathways to integrate OBIS data into other relevant indicators, but Target 21 remains our primary focus for now.
4. Any coordination tips with CBD national focal points?
In Ecuador, we have a strategic advantage: the GBIF/OBIS nodes and the CBD National Focal Point operate from the same office within the Ministry.
I highly recommend fostering a close technical relationship where the CBD team recognizes OBIS not just as a repository, but as one of the official, primary source for marine biodiversity metrics. This ensures that the data is integrated into the national reporting cycle well before the final deadlines.