Scientists study living creatures from microbes to whales, from insects to polar bears, from algae to rainforests. 

Data sets about plants and animals such as those on the GEOSS portal comply with global standards so it is possible to identify gaps in taxonomic and biological information, generate updated assessments of global biodiversity trends, track the spread and retreat of invasive alien species, and monitor how biodiversity responds to climate change.

Source: GEO (http://www.earthobservations.org/area.php?a=bes)