A virtual species set for robust and reproducible species distribution modelling tests

Data Brief. 2016 Mar 2:7:476-9. doi: 10.1016/j.dib.2016.02.058. eCollection 2016 Jun.

Abstract

Predicting species potential and future distribution has become a relevant tool in biodiversity monitoring and conservation. In this data article we present the suitability map of a virtual species generated based on two bioclimatic variables, and a dataset containing more than 700,000 random observations at the extent of Europe. The dataset includes spatial attributes such as: distance to roads, protected areas, country codes, and the habitat suitability of two spatially clustered species (grassland and forest species) and a wide-spread species.

Keywords: Habitat suitability; Species distribution models; Virtual species.