Abstract
In this paper, we examine possible sources of hierarchical (nested) structure in vegetation data. We then use the Minimum Message length principle to provide a rational means of comparing hierarchical and non-hierarchical clustering. The results indicate that, with the data used, a hierarchical solution was not as efficient as a nonhierarchical one. However, the hierarchical solution seems to provide a more comprehensible solution, separating first isolated types, probably caused from unusual contingent events, then subdividing the more diverse areas before finally subdividing the less diverse. By presenting this in 3 stages, the complexity of the non-hierarchical result is avoided. The result also suggests that a hierarchical analysis may be useful in determining ‘homogeneous’ areas.
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Abbreviations
- MML:
-
Minimum Message Length
- MUAP:
-
Modifiable Unit Area Problem
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Wallace, C.S., Dale, M.B. Hierarchical clusters of vegetation types. COMMUNITY ECOLOGY 6, 57–74 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1556/ComEc.6.2005.1.7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1556/ComEc.6.2005.1.7