SpiderATLAS: A database of spider traits and distributions in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Aim
Biodiversity shortfalls related to limited knowledge about geographic distribution (Wallacean) and species traits (Raunkiæran) are extremely common in many animal groups, and perhaps more evident in invertebrate groups such as spiders. This lack of knowledge could present challenges for researchers investigating the response and effects of spiders along large spatial scales, particularly in the Global South. The aim of the SpiderATLAS is to facilitate research that links macroecology, biogeography, trait-based ecology, and global change biology.
Location
Brazilian Atlantic Forest, spanning virtually the entire eastern coastline of Brazil, encompassing 1,62 million km², 30 degrees of latitude (3° 42’ 36” S to 33° 31’ 12” S), and 22 degrees of longitude (34° 50’ 24” W to 56° 45’ 0” W).
Taxon
Spiders (Class Araneae), including 1,648 species from 63 families.
Methods
We compiled the spatial distribution (i.e., occurrence data) and data on morphological characteristics and derived traits..., , **README file for SpiderATLAS: A Database of Spider Traits and Distributions in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest**

Access this dataset on Dryad: [https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.2v6wwq01j](https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.2v6wwq01j)

The SpiderATLAS dataset provides information on the distribution and traits of 1,648 spider species, contributing to macroecological, biogeographical, and trait-based ecology. This dataset can also support biodiversity conservation efforts for one of the most abundant and ecologically important arthropod predators in a biodiversity hotspot.

## Description of the data and file structure

1. **SpiderATLAS_metadata.csv**\
Provides a detailed description of the columns provided in the dataset, including units and specificities of spider morphological measurements.
2. **SpiderATLAS_trait_data.csv**\
Contains trait data for 1,648 spider species, including: species name, family name, localities of species description, morphological characteristics/traits (i.e., bo...,