The International Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange (IODE) programme of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is a global network whose goal is free and open access to and exchange of oceanographic data and information among the institutions and agencies in IOC Member States.

An Experts' Group on Biological and Chemical Data Management and Exchange Practices convened by the IODE programme recommended that IODE work closely with GBIF to avoid duplication and to assure the long-term preservation of data. The report also considered GBIF partners OBIS and ITIS.