Esri Living Atlas Data: World Terrestrial Ecosystems

This layer can be used in analysis at global and local regions. However, for large scale spatial analysis, we have also provided an ArcGIS Pro Package that contains the original raster data with multiple table attributes. For simple mapping applications, there is also a raster tile layer .

This layer can be combined with the World Protected Areas Database to assess the types of ecosystems that are protected, and progress towards meeting conservation goals. The WDPA layer updates monthly from the United Nations Environment Programme. Developing the World Terrestrial Ecosystems World Terrestrial Ecosystems map was produced by adopting and modifying the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) approach on the definition of Terrestrial Ecosystems and development of standardized global climate regions using the values of environmental moisture regime and temperature regime.

We then combined the values of Global Climate Regions, Landforms and matrix-forming vegetation assemblage or land use, using the ArcGIS Combine tool (Spatial Analyst) to produce World Ecosystems Dataset. This combination resulted of 431 World Ecosystems classes. Each combination was assigned a color using an algorithm that blended traditional color schemes for each of the three components.

Every pixel in this map is symbolized by a combination of values for each of these fields. The work from this collaboration is documented in the publication: Sayre et al. 2020. An assessment of the representation of ecosystems in global protected areas using new maps of World Climate Regions and World Ecosystems - Global Ecology and Conservation More information about World Terrestrial Ecosystems can be in this Story Map .

Accessing the dataset To access and use the World Terrestrial Ecosystems dataset, please access the Esri platform at the following link: arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=926a206393ec40a590d8caf29ae9a93e