What Is Paleobiology Database Used For: Features, Reviews & Alternatives
Public database of paleontological data.
Editorially updated Oct 25, 2025
Paleobiology Database
paleobiodb.org
The overview
What Paleobiology Database is for
1Core Capabilitie
- Taxon Search Interface for specific genera, species, or higher taxonomic rank
- Occurrence Data Query Panel with filters for time, geography, taxonomy, and lithology
- Stratigraphic Range Chart Generator for visualizing temporal distribution of taxa
- Data Download Utility for exporting query results in CSV, KML, or JSON format
2Specialized Workflow
- Geographic Map Visualization for plotting fossil occurrences on interactive paleogeographic map
- Phylogenetic Tree Viewer for displaying evolutionary relationships among taxa
- Contributor Data Submission Portal for researchers to upload new occurrence data
- API Access Endpoint for programmatic data retrieval and integration into custom application
Who it helps
Useful ways to use Paleobiology Database
A practical path
Initiate a Targeted Fossil Occurrence Query
Navigate to the 'Query' section on the homepage. Input specific taxonomic names (e.g., 'Trilobita'), geological periods (e.g., 'Cambrian'), or geographic coordinates into the respective search fields. Refine the query using additional filters like lithology or collection type, then execute the search to retrieve a list of matching fossil occurrence
External signals
Reviews & reputation
Aggregated review score
The Paleobiology Database is an indispensable, authoritative resource for paleontological research, widely cited for its comprehensive fossil occurrence data and robust query tools. While its interface can appear dense to new users, its depth, reliability, and open access nature are unparalleled for specialists and students alike, making it a cornerstone for understanding Earth's ancient life.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
1How is the data quality and taxonomic accuracy maintained within the Paleobiology Database?⌄
Data quality is maintained through a rigorous peer-review process for all submitted occurrences, overseen by expert paleontological editors. Taxonomic identifications are cross-referenced with established classifications, and contributors are encouraged to provide detailed metadata to ensure accuracy and reproducibility. Regular data cleaning and updates are performed by the curatorial team.
2Can I contribute my own fossil occurrence data to the Paleobiology Database, and what is the process?⌄
Yes, researchers are strongly encouraged to contribute their data. The process involves registering for a contributor account, then using the online submission portal to upload occurrence records, including taxonomic identification, locality details, stratigraphic context, and relevant metadata. Submissions undergo review by database editors before being integrated into the public dataset.
3What are the licensing terms for using data downloaded from the PBDB for research or publication?⌄
Data from the Paleobiology Database is generally available under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license. This means you are free to share and adapt the material for any purpose, even commercially, provided you give appropriate credit to the Paleobiology Database and its contributors, and indicate if changes were made. Specific citation guidelines are provided on the website.
4Does the database include trace fossils, microfossils, or only macroscopic body fossils?⌄
The Paleobiology Database primarily focuses on macroscopic body fossils. While some microfossil and trace fossil occurrences may be present, they are not as comprehensively covered as body fossils. The database's core strength lies in its extensive collection of invertebrate and vertebrate body fossil occurrences, particularly for Phanerozoic taxa.
5Are there programmatic ways to access the data beyond the web interface for large-scale analysis?⌄
Yes, the Paleobiology Database offers a robust Application Programming Interface (API) that allows researchers to programmatically query and retrieve data. This is ideal for large-scale data mining, integration with custom analytical scripts (e.g., in R or Python), or building specialized applications. Detailed API documentation is available on the website.
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