Fuzzy set ordination along an elevation gradient on a mountain in Vermont, USA
Fuzzy set ordination was used to examine relationships between tree species and site factors on Mt. Ascutney, Vermont, USA. Prism plots were established at four elevations (455, 610, 760 and 915 m) along contour lines that encircled the mountain. In addition to elevation, which was the most important factor affecting tree species composition, slope, aspect and exposure to solar radiation all affected composition; however, these latter three factors were important only at 455 m. Topographic position was important at higher elevations as well. The responses of tree species to any of these factors were highly individualistic. Plots of the upper bounds of relative basal area of each species against the apparent elevation of sites where that species was found were useful in predicting how important an individual species could become over the course of forest succession. For example, northern hardwoods, which comprise the most common forest type of this region, are not very common on this mountain. This approach shows, however, that they are currently at levels well below their potential maximum; this is probably due to past disturbance
pp. 191-200
doi:
Published 01 April 1998
Boyce, R.L.
Keywords: Fuzzy set theory; New England; Northern hardwoods; Spruce-fir
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