UKSeaMap 2016 - a broad-scale seabed habitat map for the UK

UKSeaMap 2016 has been generated by JNCC and is a by-product of the 2013-2016 activities of the EMODnet Seabed Habitats 2013-2016 consortium. It is a composite of two broad-scale habitat maps, arranged in the following priority order:

1. A roughly 100 m* resolution broad-scale habitat map, which covers the majority of the UK shelf area.

2. EUSeaMap 2016, a coarser resolution** broad-scale habitat map, which covers all European seas (view/download on the EMODnet Seabed Habitats interactive map).

Both of these datasets have been created using identical methods; the only difference is in the resolution of the seabed substrate input data and the source and resolution of the depth data.

Classification systems:
EUNIS habitat classification system, with additional deep sea zones
MSFD predominant habitats
The Marine Habitat Classification for Britain and Ireland

Input data layers:
Seabed substrate type
Depth to the seabed
Amount of light reaching the seabed
Wave disturbance at the seabed
Kinetic energy at the seabed caused by tidal currents and waves

Outputs:
Predictive seabed habitat map
Confidence layers

The map follows the EUNIS 2007-11 classification system where it is appropriate.