Vegetation Classification and Ecology

2.

Approaches to Vegetation Classification

2.1.

Basis for Classification

2.1.1.

Physiognomic-Structural Approach

2.1.1.1.

Use of Growth Forms

2.1.1.2.

Structural Layers

2.1.1.3.

Dominant Life Forms

2.1.2.

Floristic Approach

2.1.2.1.

Species Composition

2.1.2.2.

Diagnostic Species

2.1.2.3.

Floristic Similarity

2.1.3.

Environmental Approach

2.1.3.1.

Environmental Gradients

2.1.3.2.

2.1.3.3.

Ecological Niches

2.1.4.

Dynamic Approach

2.1.4.1.

Successional Stages

2.1.4.2.

Temporal Changes

2.2.

Major Classification Systems

2.2.1.

International Vegetation Classification

2.2.1.1.

Structure and Levels

2.2.1.2.

Global Application

2.2.2.

United States National Vegetation Classification

2.2.2.1.

Hierarchical Structure

2.2.2.2.

National Standards

2.2.3.

Braun-Blanquet System

2.2.3.1.

2.2.3.2.

2.2.4.

UNESCO Physiognomic-Ecological Classification

2.2.4.1.

Global Framework

2.2.4.2.

Physiognomic Units

2.2.5.

Forest Inventory and Analysis System

2.2.5.1.

Forest Type Groups

2.2.5.2.

Inventory Protocols

2.3.

Hierarchical Structure of Classification

2.3.1.

Formation Class

2.3.1.1.

Criteria for Formation Class

2.3.2.

Formation Subclass

2.3.2.1.

Subclass Distinctions

2.3.3.

Formation Group

2.3.3.1.

Grouping by Dominant Growth Forms

2.3.4.

2.3.4.1.

Formation Definitions

2.3.5.

2.3.5.1.

Characteristic Species

2.3.5.2.

Regional Variants

2.3.6.

2.3.6.1.

Diagnostic Species

2.3.6.2.

Community Homogeneity

2.3.7.

2.3.7.1.

Local Variability

2.3.7.2.

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1. Introduction to Vegetation Science

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3. Field Methods for Vegetation Analysis