Global spatial dataset of mangrove genus distribution in seaward and riverine margins

Abstract

Mangroves are nature-based solutions for coastal protection however their ability to attenuate waves and stabilise and accrete sediment varies with their species-specific architecture and frontal area. Hydrodynamic models are typically used to predict and assess the protection afforded by mangroves, but without species or genus distribution information, the results can be significantly different from reality. Data on the frontal genus of mangroves exposed to waves and tides can provide information that can be used in hydrodynamic models to more accurately forecast the protection benefit provided by mangroves. Globally, frontal species were identified from existing mangrove zonation diagrams to create a global mangrove genus distribution map. This dataset aims to improve the accuracy of hydrodynamic models. Data may be of interest to researchers in coastal engineering, marine science, wetland ecology and blue carbon.