Linking in situ vegetation data to the EUNIS habitat classification: results for forest habitats

Publication Created 25 Nov 2015 Published 25 Nov 2015
Technical report No 18/2015
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This report descibes the EUNIS habitat classification review which provides the context for a number of policy-related ecosystem and habitat assessments. It is a European reference to which other national or regional classifications can be cross referenced. The review of terrestrial EUNIS habitat classification, on the basis of georeferenced vegetation samples, aims to enhance the technical capacity for documenting, monitoring and assessing the quality of habitats at the European level. This work strengthens the knowledge base that is used for assessing progress towards the European Union (EU) and global biodiversity targets for 2020.

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A new approach to define indicator species was applied to forest habitats in the frame of a contract that was finalized in 2016. The expert system for EUNIS forest habitats was refined, using updated species groups and new software functions. Based on this, refined classification of forests was prepared. An additional Annex 5 with the forest indicator species (diagnostic, constant and dominant) is made available for forest habitats.

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Data references

Predicted distribution of habitat suitability for EUNIS habitat types Predicted distribution of habitat suitability for EUNIS habitat types The modelled suitability for the EUNIS habitat types is an indication of where conditions are favourable for each habitat type based on verified sample plot data (Braun-Blanquet database) and the Maxent software package. The modelled suitability maps may be used as a proxy for the potential geographical distribution of the habitat types in given environmental and climatic envelopes. Note however that it is not representing the actual distribution of the habitat types. A first set of habitat suitability maps for forest types is available. Over the next years more suitability maps of habitat types will be provided from this page.
EUNIS habitat classification EUNIS habitat classification The EUNIS habitat classification is a comprehensive pan-European system to facilitate the harmonised description and collection of data across Europe through the use of criteria for habitat identification. It is hierarchical and covers all types of habitat types from natural to artificial, from terrestrial to freshwater and marine.

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For references, please go to https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/eunis-habitat-classification or scan the QR code.

PDF generated on 25 May 2017, 02:38 PM

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