CaspianSeaMap 2025 Broad-Scale Predictive Habitat Map

Output of the 2025 EUSeaMap broad-scale predictive model for the Caspian region, produced by EMODnet Seabed Habitats.

The extent of the mapped area includes the Caspian 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

Habitat descriptors (excepting Substrate) are calculated using underlying physical data and thresholds derived from statistical analyses or expert judgement on known conditions.

The model is produced using R and ArcGIS Pro.

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.

A bespoke classification of benthic broad habitat types was developed as part of EMODnet Seabed Habitats. The classification of benthic broad habitat types used in column AllcombD was created as part of EMODnet Seabed Habitats. In column All2019DL2, benthic broad habitat types are described according to EUNIS 2022 classification level 2. In column MSFD_BBHT benthic broad habitat types are described according to MSFD classification.

An accompanying confidence layer is available for viewing and download from EMODnet Seabed Habitats - metadata is linked in the 'Composed of' section below.

A report on the methods used in the 2025 version of CaspianSeaMap will be published in due course and the report on previous version (v2023) is linked in lineage.

Credit: Licensed under CC-BY 4.0 from the European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet) Seabed Habitats initiative (https://emodnet.ec.europa.eu/en/seabed-habitats), funded by the European Commission.