Merging and serving Ocean Observations: a description of Marine Data Aggregators

Abstract. Observations are a fundamental element in ocean predictions: they are crucial not only for monitoring the ocean state, but also for improving the forecasting systems and validating the model outputs. In this framework, it is essential to adequately access, manage, and integrate such information in the ocean value chain. Data providers are in charge of collecting, processing and analyzing these observations, delivering comprehensive datasets that can be used for informed decision making and by forecasters to improve ocean models. In this paper, several examples of data services are discussed – ranging from the Copernicus Marine In-Situ Thematic Assembly Center to European Marine Observation and Data network (EMODnet) to SeaDataNet – recognized as key players in the framework of monitoring and management of the marine resource. The paper offers an outlook on future directions in ocean data integration, particularly on the opportunities offered by the standardization of protocols for data dissemination and the role of cost-effective and citizen-based data collection.