How to interpret a living environmental map
Each tab answers a different question through a different observation system. Reading them together is useful only when dates, coverage and measurement types remain distinct.
Four layers, four kinds of evidence
Occurrence points show where a species was recorded, not everywhere it lives. FIRMS marks satellite thermal anomalies, EONET adds named events, the temperature layer models sea-surface conditions and WDPA represents designated protected areas.
Sampling effort matters. Accessible coasts, roads and research stations generate more records than remote regions. A dense cluster may show survey activity as much as abundance, while an empty area may mean missing observation.
From overlap to a better question
Fire detections near protected areas or species records indicate spatial proximity, not proven population harm. Confirmation requires local boundaries, timing, habitat context and often field reporting.
Use popups and legends to identify source and date, then follow the provider or species profile. The map helps ask where pressure is emerging, which observations are recent and what evidence should be checked next.