ISSN:
1573-5052
Keywords:
Basalt
;
Deciduous woodland
;
Diversity
;
Reciprocal averaging
;
Size structure
;
Stability
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Multivariate models based independently on the floristic and environmental attributes of sample quadrats from an escarpment woodland, were constructed. They were used to interpret the ecology of plant species distribution and to investigate the size structure of tree populations. Site instability, soil water status, and past management and grazing pressure were found to exert major influences on the composition and structure of the woodland. It is suggested that early mortality associated with site instability, plays an important role in maintaining the floristic diversity of vascular plants in the woodland ground flora, by increasing the frequency of tree replacement. This may have the effect of preventing canopy closure and any associated, detrimental effects of low light intensities. The relevance of the work of the conservation management of escarpment woods in Northern Ireland is discussed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00037331
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