Towards a structural-functional classification of fynbos: a comparison of methods
Bothalia - African Biodiversity & Conservation
| Field | Value | |
| Title | Towards a structural-functional classification of fynbos: a comparison of methods | |
| Creator | Linder, P. Campbell, B. M. | |
| Description | The need for a classification of the vegetation of the fynbos region is stressed. In the present work we have evaluated some structural-functional approaches that could be used to classify and describe fynbos. A priori and a posteriori approaches to classification are reviewed. The a posteriori approach appears to be superior.Test data derived from 21 plots from a range of fynbos types were used to test some methods of collecting and analysing structural-functional information for an a posteriori classification. With respect to data collection, no single method was superior. However, a major improvement on our methodology would be possible if the growth-form system used were to be extended. The classifications that were erected were produced by means of computer-based numerical methods. These methods are essential if large data sets are to be analysed. However, the structural-functional classifications produced by numerical methods should only be regarded as working hypotheses; refinement of the classifications should proceed by intuitive methods. We feel that the a posteriori approach, even though it has its problems, will provide a suitable methodology for an ecologically meaningful classification of fynbos vegetation. | |
| Publisher | AOSIS | |
| Date | 1979-11-12 | |
| Identifier | 10.4102/abc.v12i4.1444 | |
| Source | Bothalia; Vol 12, No 4 (1979); 723-729 2311-9284 0006-8241 | |
| Language | eng | |
| Relation |
The following web links (URLs) may trigger a file download or direct you to an alternative webpage to gain access to a publication file format of the published article:
https://journals.abcjournal.aosis.co.za/index.php/abc/article/view/1444/1402
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