Welcome to the BSBI's Distribution Database
The BSBI's database provides access to the millions of botanical records collated by the society. The data is used to generate the distribution maps on our website and the underlying detailed records can be made available for academic research and other specialist uses. The database includes records from diverse sources but the vast majority of records come from the BSBI’s network of county recorders, local groups and taxonomic experts.
Requests for access
The DDb is primarily intended as a research tool for county-recorders, referees and other specialist users.
Please view the Using our data page on our Documentation website to find the most appropriate route to access our data.
Key features
- Detailed records
- The DDb retains and makes accessible records at the resolution at which they were recorded or submitted (i.e. full resolution).
- Maps
- Zoomable maps up to 100m square resolution for registered users (2km square precision for open public access).
- Reporting tools
- The system allows a range of queries to be run, from basic searches to advanced interrogation of the data
- Data validation
- The database provides automated validity checks for records highlighting many simple problems and highlighting anomalous records. Detailed verification of the data is undertaken by the BSBI’s county-recorders and taxon referees. The database provides online tools to mark the validity of records and to make corrections.
- Data integration
- The database accepts and fully integrates records from a diverse range of sources and formats, including regular automatic updates from MapMate. Stored records retain the full details of the original.