Prelude to management: an introduction to 'Ecological Site Classification' and related techniques using Ellenberg indicator values

摘要

Ecological Site Classification (ESC) categorises all sites into a grid of five soil nutrient regimes plus carbonate; and eight soil moisture regimes. Further refinement is available via the seven climatic zones. ESC is designed for foresters. It has the potential to be used more widely by ecologists and land managers. The ESC grid parallels a grid of F versus R + N values (combined) of the Ellenberg indicator system. National Vegetation Classification (NVC) woodlands can be placed in either grid. Soil moisture regime can be determined from field survey (preferred system for ESC) or from vegetation data (for the F versus R + N grid). Linkage between woodland and comparable non-woodland NVC communities is discussed and sample data presented in the form of an array.