Spatial and temporal classification of coastal regions using bioclimatic indices in a Mediterranean environment.

•Bioclimatic indices can represent behavior of climatic features over space and time.•Bioclimatic information help identify trends and magnitude of bio-physical changes.•Spatio-temporal bioclimatic information revealed some increasing aridity for Apulia.•Use of the De Martonne index showed spatial and temporal patterns of aridity in Apulia.•Knowledge of bioclimatic features can inform resource planning and management policies.