Towards Continental-Scale Mapping of Supratidal Forests in Australia: Filling the Knowledge Gap Using the Open Data Cube

The lack of continental-wide information on supratidal forests (STF) is a significant missing link in knowledge of coastal ecosystems distribution in Australia. It is currently not possible to identify where these ecosystems exist or to track changes over time without remotely sensed imagery. We have developed an initial ecosystem extent mapping workflow of STF based upon an emerging conceptual understanding of characteristics and biophysical drivers along the multiple coastal settings around the country. This workflow was developed leveraging existing nationally-consistent datasets containing information on woody vegetation cover, elevation, intertidal extent and mangrove distribution. Preliminary results suggest the area covered by potential supratidal forests may be as great as 7,010 km
²
, with further work required to refine this extent. The outputs from this project will align with Australia’s Ocean Accounts, filling the gap in national mapping and reporting on Australia’s ocean-based natural assets. Addressing this information gap is crucial for effective management and protection of coastal vegetated ecosystems and their associated services.