Abstract
Gower's (1977) method for the canonical analysis of asymmetric matrices (CAA) where the same entities index both the rows and the columns is described. This technique displays the indexing entities in a series of orthogonal planes of decreasing importance in such a way as to preserve the pattern of the asymmetry between them. The analysis is applied to a half-diallel experiment and to some leaf-overtopping data, both from a study of the control of relative abundance of perennials in chalk grassland. The results suggest a common source for the asymmetry in the very different interference and overtopping data, namely that of leaf height. It is concluded that relative abundance in the field may be determined, in part, by leaf height through aboveground interference between plants.
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Nomenclature follows Tutin et al., 1964–1980. Flora Europaea, Vols 1–5. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
I am particularly indebted to the Nature Conservancy Council for permission to carry out the field experiment on the Aston Rowant N.N.R., and to do field work at Castle Hill N.N.R.
We are grateful to R. A. Kempton for permission to use his methodology in the analysis of the half-diallel experiment prior to publication. This work was carried out while J.M. was in receipt of a Research Studentship from the Natural Environment Research Council, and L.G. was in receipt of an internal Research Studentship from Trinity College, Cambridge.
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Mitchley, J., Guarino, L. Canonical analysis of asymmetric matrices: two applications from a study of chalk grassland in the south of England. Vegetatio 57, 53–60 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00031930
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00031930