Cross-database Search
Last updated
Last updated
The Cross-database Search function allows users to search across several integrated geological databases using unified spatial, temporal, and keyword-based filters. This feature significantly enhances data accessibility by aggregating distributed resources into a single query interface.
Currently, the following databases are integrated:
PBDB (Paleobiology Database)
Macrostrat
GeoLexicon
Climate-sensitive Lithofacies Data
Each dataset is marked with metadata explaining the structure and type of data entries available.
To conduct a search, follow these steps:
Enter a keyword
For example, input limestone to search for lithological entries containing this term.
Select a time range You can choose a predefined interval, such as the Phanerozoic (approx. 540–0 Ma).
Choose a spatial mode The platform supports three types of spatial constraints:
Search by Area
Search by Basin
Search by Plate
In this example, we use the global extent for maximum coverage.
Click "Search" The system will query all connected databases simultaneously. Processing time may vary depending on the volume of data.
Once the results are returned, you will see a summary of matching records from each database.
For example:
PBDB: ~57,000 entries with limestone lithology
Macrostrat: ~8,600 entries
GeoLexicon: ~800 entries
These results are listed with relevant attribute fields such as formation names, time intervals, lithology descriptions, etc.
Click “Add to Layer” to visualize the search results on the digital globe.
Each database result will appear as a separate layer.
You can configure the symbol size and color in the Layer panel for better clarity.
Use the Time Slider to view how data points evolve over geological time. If a paleomap background (e.g., Cretaceous) is active, it can provide better visual context during plate movements.
Clicking on any data point reveals its detailed attributes in the Information Viewer panel.
You can export search results for further analysis:
Click Export Layer
Choose a geological time (e.g., 70 Ma) to calculate paleocoordinates
The output will include reconstructed paleolatitude and paleolongitude for each data point at the specified age.
After processing, the exported file (CSV format) will contain all attributes along with calculated paleo-positions.
For instance, exporting PBDB's limestone data at 70 Ma may yield over 57,000 records with ancient coordinates.
The Cross-database Search function allows users to explore, visualize, and export geological information from multiple global databases with ease. It supports robust temporal and spatial queries, offers dynamic visualization, and facilitates paleogeographic research at scale.
