An expert-curated dataset of glass sponges (Porifera, Hexactinellida) distribution across the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans

Glass sponges (Porifera, Hexactinellida) are key habitat-forming organisms in deep-sea ecosystems, yet their diversity and distribution remains poorly understood. This work presents the first comprehensive and expert-curated dataset of Hexactinellida distribution records compiled from published literature and key biodiversity data repositories, including the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), NOAA's National Database for Deep-sea Corals and Sponges (NOAA) and the Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems database of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES VME database). The dataset was carefully curated and standardized following Darwin Core Standards to ensure consistency, accuracy and reliability in future research applications. The initial compilation included 28563 records, which were subjected to a rigorous data-cleaning process to remove duplicates, fossil records, taxonomically uncertain entries, and records lacking geographic coordinates. The final dataset comprises 4136 unique records representing 153 species (ca. 21% of all known hexactinellid species worldwide) across the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. Notably, the dataset contains distribution records of 214 type specimens. Species occurrences are predominantly concentrated in the North Atlantic, with significant data gaps in the South Atlantic and particularly along the African coastline. Depth distribution analyses reveal that glass sponges are most commonly recorded between 800 and 1200 m, with peaks in species diversity occurring at depths of 500, 1500, 2000 and 2500 m. This dataset provides valuable baseline information to support conservation efforts, biogeographic modelling, and deep-sea ecological studies. By integrating expert-validated species records from multiple sources, it offers a crucial resource for advancing knowledge on the diversity and distribution of glass sponges and their role in marine ecosystems. The dataset is publicly available through Zenodo.