In this data, tintinnid species occurrence (abundance, ind./L) is presented for each sampling point (depth of a specified station with coordinates) during cruise CHINARE_12 with research vessel Xue Long 2. Sampling method: Tintinnid samples were taken as 1 litre seawater in each sampling points of CTD cast, fixed with acid Lugol's solution at a final concentration of 1%. The original samples were settled for 24 hours. The supernatant was then siphoned out leaving about 20 microliters. Taxonomy and abundance estimation in the lab: The concentrated sample were settled in Utermohl counting chamber and examined under inverted microscope. Tintinnid species were identified according to loricate size, shape and decorations. Abundance of each species was estimated according to their counts in the sample and sample volume.