Global Forest Canopy Structural–Functional Index (FCSFI) Dataset, 2005–2021

Overview This dataset provides annual gridded estimates of the Forest Canopy Structural–Functional Index (FCSFI) for the period 2005–2021. FCSFI was developed to characterize forest canopy conditions by integrating multiple remotely sensed vegetation indicators representing complementary aspects of canopy structure and function. The dataset supports the analysis of the spatial patterns, temporal dynamics, and long-term trends in forest canopy conditions across the global forest domain represented in the study. Data Coverage and Spatial Resolution The dataset covers forest areas within approximately 60°N–60°S and spans 2005–2021. The FCSFI data are provided on a nominal 1 km spatial grid. The study domain reflects the spatial coverage of the input vegetation data and should not be interpreted as representing all global forest areas, particularly those outside the specified latitudinal range. Forest Classification and Temporal Consistency Forest areas were classified into six forest types: deciduous broadleaf forest (DBF), deciduous needleleaf forest (DNF), evergreen broadleaf forest (EBF), evergreen needleleaf forest (ENF), mixed forest (MF), and woody savannas (WS). The analysis retained stable forest pixels that maintained the same forest classification and had valid FCSFI values throughout the 17-year study period. This criterion was applied to improve temporal consistency in the analysis of long-term canopy dynamics. Data Use and Citation Users are requested to cite this dataset using its registered DOI and to acknowledge the associated publication when applicable. The dataset is distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) license. Users should consider the spatial coverage, temporal consistency criteria, input data characteristics, and methodological assumptions when interpreting and reusing the data.