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Evaluation of ordination methods through simulated coenoclines: Some comments

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Summary

The evaluation of ordination methods through simulated coenoclines is discussed. The inconsistency of some arguments against the use of linear ordinations is stressed. The regression between the product moment correlation coefficient and the relative overlapping area of the bellshaped curves of the species of coenoclines may be fitted to a linear function. An example of a seriation of relevés along a straight line based on a linear method is given using field data.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Instituto ed Orto Botanico, Università degli Studi, Via A. Valerio 30, 34100, Trieste, Italy

    Enrico Feoli & Laura Feoli Chiapella

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  1. Enrico Feoli
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  2. Laura Feoli Chiapella
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Additional information

The research was supported by a grant from the Italian CNR (Programma Finalizzato ‘Promozione Qualità dell'Ambientesottoprogetto Metodologie Matematiche e Basi di Dati’).

We would like to thank dr. M. Dale, dr. E. van der Maarel and prof. L. Orlóci for useful comments on the manuscript and Mr. A. Zampar for technical assistance.

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Feoli, E., Chiapella, L.F. Evaluation of ordination methods through simulated coenoclines: Some comments. Vegetatio 42, 35–41 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00048868

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