Sharing data in Ecology: how to add more value to data

Abstract

Pérez-Luque, A.J.,  Ros-Candeira, A. 2019. Sharing data in Ecology: how to add more value to data. Ecosistemas 28(3):150-159. Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.1838

Data is one of the valuable products of science. Their preservation, accessibility and reuse in ecology is crucial, given the importance of data sets for understanding complex ecological questions and/or solving emerging environmental problems. Although most researchers recognize the importance of sharing data, there are different social and technological barriers that limit the value of data, slowing down possible advances in ecological research. In this paper we review the different practices of data publication in ecology and present a series of ideas to add "more" value to the data through their documentation and publication. We also present a case study showing different approaches to data sharing. Throughout the review we included different resources and tools to help us maximize the value of the data we generate and facilitate access to other users.