biomesfrom

Biomesfrom is a framework and dataset for mapping biomes by synthesizing environmental variables from multiple sources to assign biome labels across geographic space. The project aims to provide a consistent, scalable approach to biome classification that can support ecology, conservation, and climate research. It draws on established biome concepts and combines them with contemporary data streams to create reproducible biome maps.

Data and methods: Biomesfrom merges satellite-derived land-cover products, climate surfaces (temperature, precipitation, seasonality), topography, soils, and vegetation indices. It uses a rule-based or machine-learning approach to classify grid cells into biome categories, with a focus on compatibility with recognized taxonomies such as Whittaker’s biome scheme and subsequent refinements. Uncertainty estimates accompany each cell.

Applications: The framework is used in biodiversity assessments, reserve design, ecological modeling, and education. It also serves as a common basis for cross-study comparisons by providing a transparent, machine-readable labeling system.

Access and governance: Biomesfrom is released as an open-source project under a permissive license. Data and code are available via a public repository, and it provides APIs and downloadable maps at multiple resolutions. The project emphasizes reproducibility and documentation, including methodological notes, data provenance, and versioning.

Limitations: Biome definitions can be context-dependent, and changes in data sources or resolution can shift designations. Seasonal dynamics and human land-use changes may affect accuracy. Users are encouraged to review uncertainty maps and validation studies.

See also: Biome, Biome classification, Ecological region, Vegetation mapping, Climate data.