Supporting Red List threat assessments with GeoCAT: geospatial conservation assessment tool

TLDR

GeoCAT is an open‑source, browser‑based tool that streamlines Red List assessments by rapidly computing the extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, metrics that are often difficult to obtain accurately and consistently. The authors developed GeoCAT to leverage spatially referenced primary occurrence data for calculating a taxon’s EOO and AOO as part of IUCN Red List criteria. Using a familiar Google Maps interface, GeoCAT integrates occurrence data from GBIF, Flickr, Scratchpads, and user uploads, performs the calculations with a single click, and stores the results, data, and parameters in a shareable GeoCAT file. The tool delivers instant visualizations of Red List threat ratings and demonstrates that automating data handling can accelerate assessments, serving as a foundation for further enhancements.

Abstract

GeoCAT is an open source, browser based tool that performs rapid geospatial analysis to ease the process of Red Listing taxa. Developed to utilise spatially referenced primary occurrence data, the analysis focuses on two aspects of the geographic range of a taxon: the extent of occurrence (EOO) and the area of occupancy (AOO). These metrics form part of the IUCN Red List categories and criteria and have often proved challenging to obtain in an accurate, consistent and repeatable way. Within a familiar Google Maps environment, GeoCAT users can quickly and easily combine data from multiple sources such as GBIF, Flickr and Scratchpads as well as user generated occurrence data. Analysis is done with the click of a button and is visualised instantly, providing an indication of the Red List threat rating, subject to meeting the full requirements of the criteria. Outputs including the results, data and parameters used for analysis are stored in a GeoCAT file that can be easily reloaded or shared with collaborators. GeoCAT is a first step toward automating the data handling process of Red List assessing and provides a valuable hub from which further developments and enhancements can be spawned.