2023 Broad-Scale Predictive Habitat Map for the Caribbean

This version is now archived, see the links below for the 2025 version which has superseded this version.

Output of the 2023 EUSeaMap broad-scale predictive model for the Caribbean region, produced by EMODnet Seabed Habitats.

The extent of the mapped area covers the jurisdictional waters of EU Member States and the United Kingdom (UK) in the Caribbean Sea

The map was produced using a "top-down" modelling approach using classified habitat descriptors to determine a final output habitat.

Habitat descriptors differ per region but include: Biological zone Seabed substrate

Biological zone is calculated using underlying physical data and thresholds derived from statistical analyses or expert judgement on known conditions.

The model is produced using R and Arc Model Builder (10.1).

The model was created using raster input layers with a cell size of 0.00104dd (roughly 100 metres). The model includes the sublittoral zone only; due to the high variability of the littoral zone, a lack of detailed substrate data and the resolution of the model, it is difficult to predict littoral habitats at this scale.

For the Caribbean region EUSeaMap classified benthic broad habitat types Andres et al, 2022, which to our knowledge is the most comprehensive EUNIS-like classification of the Caribbean seabed habitats. Benthic broad habitat types are also described according to EUNIS 2022 classification level 2 and MSFD classification where possible.

Reports detailing the methods used in the previous versions of EUSeaMap (v2019 and V2021) are linked in online resources a new report is in progress.