Benthic coverage map of the marine ecosystems in Mexican Caribbean: Cabo Catoche - Xcalak

The map represents the spatial distribution of benthic cover in shallow waters of the Mexican Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, from Cabo Catoche to Xcalak, in an area of 1001 km2, with a maximum average depth of 18 m. Bottom reflectance, relief, bathymetry, were obtained from the analysis of 23 WorldView-2 satellite images (2010-2016). The coverage map was generated and validated by applying techniques supported with expert knowledge, and from the analysis of field data. Nine classes were defined: sediments, seagrass community, seagrasses and macroalgae, macroalgae, coraline structure, stumps and boulder, octocorals, octocorals and corals, and rocky reef. The map has an overall accuracy of 82.3%. This product, which belongs to the National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO), is a tool within the Marine-Coastal Information and Analysis System (SIMAR), to support decision-making for the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems in a scenario of climate change and variability.<br><b>Acknowledgement:</b>The authors acknowledge the logistical and technical support provided by National Financial Trust Fund for Biodiversity and CONABIO, National Commission of Natural Protected Areas Mexico (CONANP), National Autonomous University of Mexico, UNAM (UASA Marine Science and Limnology Institute, Institute of Geography, Science Faculty - Academic Unit Sisal), and Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (CINVESTAV-Mérida, IPN).<br><br>