HootSuite has acquired the Web service “What the Trend” which identifies trending topics on Twitter and explains why they’re trending with crowd-sourced definitions. The company plans to use this tool in their social media management dashboard.

What the Trend is a real-time service that can be accessed from the Web or mobile devices. Editors curate definitions and explanations along with user votes to determine the most accurate and useful content. Crowdsourcing and real-time access are crucial elements in Twitter’s fast changing ecosystem.

Trending topics are one of Twitter’s most important aspects as they highlight breaking news and social trends faster than some of the most reliable news sources. It’s no surprise that HootSuite wanted to highlight this feature. “Adding What the Trend to HootSuite will help brands understand behavior and identify opportunities, plus will help users connect with compelling topics they care about,” said Ryan Homes, HootSuite CEO.

What the Trend’s key services are already integrated into both HootSuite’s Web and mobile platforms, but in the next few weeks, What the Trend will be integrated into HootSuite even further. What the Trend co-founder and lead developer, Paul Colton, will join HootSuite as a consultant during the transitional period.

The financial terms of the acquisition are undisclosed.

September has been a big month for HootSuite. The company recently closed a $3 million round of funding and acquired the Twitter analysis tool TwapperKeeper.

To give What the Trend in HootSuite a try, log into your HootSuite dashboard and search for a specific trend.