ENCS406 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Encs, Ecodistrict, Alpha Diversity

• School: University of Alberta
• Department: Environmental and Conservation Sciences
• Course: ENCS406
• Professor: Edward Bork

Document Summary

Encs 406 lec 3: ecosystem classification (defined): Top-down, hierarchical system of progressively classifying a land-base into more discrete (eg identifiable) land areas, each of which has a set of unique physical, biological and ecological characteristics (and thus, can be mapped). The ideal level of classification for management depends on objectives, costs to assemble, and benefits. Society has an inherent need to order and understand the natural world around us. Classification schemes facilitate communication between individuals (eg researchers, managers, and resource users), as well as their organizations. Using standard language/names to be able to communicate between regions, countries. Classifications serve as practical tools by allowing land managers to monitor and predict vegetation responses to management actions. A unique and uniform assemblage (ie mixture) of plants occurring together at a point in time within a discrete area. Key community attributes: we want to know complimentary physiology (amount of biomass below and above ground) t o have efficient plants.