Habitat quality of mangrove areas in the Mekong Delta (Soc Trang, Ca Mau and Kien Giang) using the InVEST Habitat Quality model, 2017

This dataset calculates the habitat quality and habitat degradation index of the coastal mangrove forest in Soc Trang, Ca Mau, Kien Giang in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam, in 2017, using the InVEST habitat quality model. The dataset includes inputs and outputs for the InVEST habitat quality model; including the distribution of habitat quality index values represented in a habitat quality map; distribution of threat factors to habitat quality and vector data; land use and land cover map of Kien Giang, Ca Mau, Soc Trang in 2017; output of habitat quality model, include habitat quality index map and habitat degradation index map.

The InVEST Habitat Quality (HQ) model is an open source tool that uses land-use maps and threat data to assess biodiversity. Habitat quality and rarity are used as proxies to represent the biodiversity of a landscape - estimating the extent of habitat and vegetation types across a landscape, and their state of degradation (Stanford University). The model combines maps of land use land cover (LULC) with data on threats to habitats and habitat response. Modelling habitat quality alongside ecosystem services enables users to compare spatial patterns and identify areas where conservation will most benefit natural systems and protect threatened species.