High-resolution spatial dataset of ecosystem types in Japan classified
within the IUCN global ecosystem typology scheme with new categories at
the Regional subgroups level
Abstract
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has recently
developed a global ecosystem typology (IUCN typology) based on the
functional characteristics of the ecosystems. However, its low spatial
resolution and lack of recognition of certain categories in Japan limits
effective and precise habitat analysis for global comparisons. In this
data paper, we used the Japanese vegetation map provided by the Ministry
of Environment (MOE) to align Japanese vegetation categories with the
IUCN typology scheme up to Level 4, Regional subgroups,
developing a correspondence table and a high-resolution spatial dataset
focusing on terrestrial ecosystems. In addition, we also integrated the
land-use classification developed by the National Institute for
Environmental Studies. The dataset includes tables describing the
integration of Japanese habitat classification with IUCN typology from
Level 1 to 4 (Realms, Biomes, Ecosystem functional
groups, Regional subgroups), explanation of land-use categories,
and the main corresponding table as well as high-resolution integrated
GIS data. This integration supports both global and local studies, with
the tables including English and Japanese names of the classification
tree.