Data from: Recent trends and biases in mesophotic ecosystem research

Mesophotic ecosystems (~30-150 m) represent a significant proportion of
the world’s oceans, yet have long remained understudied due to challenges
in accessing these deeper depths. Due to advances in underwater
technologies and a growing scientific and management interest, there has
been a major expansion in research of both (sub)tropical mesophotic coral
ecosystems (MCEs) and temperate mesophotic ecosystems (TMEs). Here, we
characterize the recent global trends in mesophotic research through an
updated release of the “mesophotic.org” database where we reviewed and
cataloged 1,500 scientific publications. In doing so, we shed light on
four major research biases: a gross imbalance in (a) the geographic spread
of research efforts, differences in (b) the focal depth range and (c)
research fields associated with study organisms and research platforms,
and (d) the lack of temporal studies. Overall, we are optimistic about the
future of mesophotic research and hope that by highlighting current trends
and imbalances, we can raise awareness and stimulate discussion on the
future directions of this emerging field.