In-situ benthic cover data in marine ecosystems of the Mexican Caribbean

This dataset (in Excel format) represents in-situ information on the percentage of benthic cover collected at 714 stations. Seven field campaigns were conducted (2010-2016), in shallow waters (up to 25 m depth) along the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, from Cabo Catoche to Xcalak, as part of the Mesoamerican Reef System. The biotopes of reef lagoon, back reef, reef crest, rocky terrace, and the spur and grooves of the fore reef, were studied. The percentages of benthic cover were estimated through visual surveys and the use of underwater photographs for later analysis in the laboratory, establishing 12 classification categories. The data obtained have been used as a reference for the calibration of benthic cover classifications derived from the processing of 23 WorldView-2 satellite images (2009-2015).<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).