Phytogeographical regions of Egypt: first open-source geospatial data and its applications
1Botany Department, College of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31512, Egypt. amrkeshta@science.tanta.edu.eg.
BMC Research Notes
|October 9, 2023
Summary
This study digitizes Egypt's phytogeographical regions using Geographical Information Systems (GIS), creating the first open-source geospatial data for biodiversity and conservation research.
Area of Science:
- Botany
- Geography
- Geoinformatics
Background:
- Phytogeographical data for Egypt exists primarily as historical paper maps.
- Lack of accessible digital data hinders research in plant distribution and conservation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To digitize and create the first open-source geospatial data for Egyptian phytogeographical regions.
- To make this data readily available for researchers and GIS analysts.
Main Methods:
- Digitization of paper map boundaries using ArcMap 10.4.
- Geo-referencing of ground data for accuracy.
- Quality control checks for data integrity.
Main Results:
- Creation of the first digital geospatial dataset for Egyptian phytogeographical regions.
- Data available in file geodatabase (.gdb) and shapefile formats.
- Ensured data accuracy and quality for reliable use.
Conclusions:
- The developed geospatial data is a valuable tool for phytoremediation, biodiversity, and conservation studies.
- Facilitates advanced GIS and remote sensing applications in Egypt.
- Establishes a foundation for future ecological research and environmental management.
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