Global Distribution of Coral Reefs

This dataset shows the global distribution of coral reefs in tropical and subtropical regions. It is the most comprehensive global dataset of warm-water coral reefs to date, acting as a foundation baseline map for future, more detailed, work. This dataset was compiled from a number of sources by UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEPWCMC) and the WorldFish Centre, in collaboration with WRI (World Resources Institute) and TNC (The Nature Conservancy). Data sources include the Millennium Coral Reef Mapping Project (IMaRS-USF and IRD 2005, IMaRS-USF 2005) and the World Atlas of Coral Reefs (Spalding et al. 2001).

Related Policies and targets

SDG Goal 14

Topics

Natural Resources Species Ecosystem Functions and Services Freshwater Marine Ecosystems

Data provider

UNEP-WCMC

Suggested citation

UNEP-WCMC, WorldFish Centre, WRI, TNC (2021). Global distribution of coral reefs, compiled from multiple sources including the Millennium Coral Reef Mapping Project. Version 4.1, updated by UNEP-WCMC. Includes contributions from IMaRS-USF and IRD (2005), IMaRS-USF (2005) and Spalding et al. (2001). Cambridge (UK): UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre. Data DOI: https://doi.org/10.34892/t2wk-5t34

Related tool or portal

Licence

UNEP-WCMC General Data License available at https://www.unep-wcmc.org/policies/general-data-license-excluding-wdpa#data_policy

Date or time period of observation

2021-10-11 10:15:00+00

Geographic coverage

Global

Cautions

Version 4.1 (March 2021) While having global coverage, the dataset was compiled from multiple sources with varying scale and quality. The dataset has yet to undergo external review. For more information, consult https://data.unep-wcmc.org/pdfs/1/WCMC_008_Global_Distribution_of_Coral_Reefs.pdf?1617121809

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