Distribution Matrix European Bats

Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Abstract

This distribution matrix was compiled for 54 European geographic regions, comprising European countries together with selected larger islands and distinct territories. It includes 52 bat species that occur in Europe or its associated territories. For each species, occurrence is represented as present (1) or absent (0) for every region.This matrix was developed specifically to support machine-learning–based automated species classification and should not be interpreted as an official or authoritative checklist of national species occurrences. Users requiring official distribution or occurrence information should consult the distribution data maintained by UNEP/EUROBATS and other relevant national or international authorities.Unlike political country checklists, the matrix uses a finer geographic subdivision by including separate territories and larger islands where this improves the performance and ecological relevance of automated classification. Furthermore, the matrix follows an intentionally inclusive approach to species occurrence. Where there is reasonable ecological justification (e.g. geographic proximity, suitable habitat, or documented occurrence in neighbouring areas), species may be considered present in a territory even if they are not currently listed there as native or officially recorded. This approach minimizes false exclusions in the machine-learning workflow and reflects potential rather than strictly documented political-unit occurrences.Documented species occurrences were compiled from the published literature listed in the bibliography below. These sources formed the basis for the distribution matrix, with additional expert-informed adjustments made where appropriate to support the intended machine-learning application.Consequently, the matrix should be regarded as a practical tool for constraining automated species identification rather than as a definitive statement of species distributions.

Authors 2

1. Milan van Hirtum Aachen Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center

2. Leonie Baier Aachen Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Naturalis Biodiversity Center