Topsoil invertebrate density estimates from the Countryside Survey of Great Britain, 2007 using a generalized additive model

This dataset presents modelled estimates of soil invertebrate density (individuals m-2) at 1km2 resolution across Great Britain. A Generalized Additive Model approach was used with Countryside Survey soil invertebrate density data from 2007 and including climate, habitat, soil and spatial predictors. The model is based on soil invertebrate density data from 830 locations across Great Britain and is representative of 0-8 cm soil depth. Soil invertebrates were extracted from cores using a dry Tullgren extraction method and enumerated by microscope. The Countryside Survey looks at a range of physical, chemical and biological properties of the topsoil from a representative sample of habitats across the UK.

This work was supported by the Natural Environment Research Council award number NE/R016429/1 as part of the UK-SCAPE programme delivering National Capability.