Dataset and R code for the multidimensional evaluation of wild animal species' productive and ecosystem potential

This dataset supports the article “A multidimensional tool to evaluate the productive and ecosystem potential of wild animal species.” It includes four files used to assess 60 wild animal species based exclusively on two core dimensions: productive potential (PP) and ecosystem potential (EP). Files included: Matrix_PP_PE.xlsxContains the raw and weighted scores for 60 wild animal species based on expert evaluation of: Productive potential (PP): handling, reproduction, nutrition, production, market integration, and legal constraints Ecosystem potential (EP): provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural ecosystem services Total_Matrix.xlsxIntegrated matrix of PP and EP subcriteria with normalized and aggregated scores.Structured for multivariate analysis, including principal component analysis and clustering. Wildlife_Clustered_Matrix.xlsxFinal cluster assignments of the 60 species based on PP and EP dimensions and their integration.Includes functional group labels used for interpretation and visualisation. script_clustering_PCA.RR script used for conducting PCA, k-means clustering, and generating figures for species classification. The dataset underpins a decision-support tool for tailored wildlife management, bioeconomic planning, and biodiversity conservation. It highlights that productive and ecosystem potential often diverge, reinforcing the need for differentiated strategies based on species roles, constraints, and socio-cultural relevance.