In 2016, the Group on Earth Observations – Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO MBON) was formally recognized as a thematic node of the Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO BON). MBON is a The Marine Biodiversity Observation Network is a growing global initiative composed of regional networks of scientists, resource managers, and end-users working to integrate data from existing long-term programs to improve our understanding of changes and connections between marine biodiversity and ecosystem functions.