Biases and distribution patterns in hard-bodied microscopic animals (Acari: Halacaridae): Size doesn’t matter, but generalism and sampling effort do

Aim
The interplay between distribution ranges, species traits, and sampling and taxonomic biases remain elusive amongst microscopic animals. This ignorance obscures our understanding of the diversity patterns of a major component of biodiversity. Here, we used marine Halacaridae to explore whether differences between marine provinces can explain their distribution patterns or if differential sampling efforts across regions prevent any macroecological inference. Furthermore, we test if certain functional traits influence their distribution patterns.
Location
Europe.
Results
Whereas geographical variables provided a better explanation for differences in species composition, sampling effort and distance from marine biological stations accounted for the majority of differences in European Halacaridae richness. Species occurring in more habitats showed broader geographical ranges and accumulated more records. Species traits like body size affected the distribution of halacarid species.
Main ..., , See README.md file. In re-using the data, please cite the original publication in Diversity and Distribution.