Paleobiology Database

The Paleobiology Database (PBDB) is an online place where you can find information about fossils. Fossils are the remains or traces of ancient life that help us learn about the past.

This database is very helpful for scientists who study Earth's history. By looking at the PBDB, they can see where different fossils are found around the world and how they are related to each other.

The PBDB makes it easier for researchers to share their discoveries and work together. It helps us understand how life on Earth has changed over millions of years.

History

The Paleobiology Database started in 1998 with help from the NCEAS. It was supported by the National Science Foundation and the Australian Research Council until 2015. For many years, it was located at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and now it is at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, managed by a group of important contributors.

The Paleobiology Database works together with the Neotoma Paleoecology Database. They both helped start the EarthLife Consortium, an organization that makes it easy for everyone to share information about ancient life.

Researchers

The Paleobiology Database has many researchers who help keep it up to date. Some work at famous museums and universities around the world, like the Museum für Naturkunde, Macquarie University, and the Smithsonian Institution. They study fossils of animals, plants, and tiny organisms to learn more about life from long ago.

Criticism

Some experts believe the Paleobiology Database might sometimes share incorrect information about where certain animals lived long ago. This happens because the database can include mistakes without checking them carefully.