Abstract
We present a new method for the classification of beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forest plots based on discriminant and frequency analysis. This method can be used as a tool to allow experts to stratify beech forests in a simple and precise way. The method is based on discriminant analysis with cross-validation of 13 variables measured in 142 plots from the 2005 Second National Forest Inventory and 63 plots from an inventory installed in specific locations together with a frequency analysis of the qualifying variables. In the first stage, the method uses the results of a frequency analysis fitted with an iterative discriminant analysis that allows improving the subsequent classifications taking into account the results of the analysis and the correctly- and wrong-classified plots. This method is applied to beech forest in Burgos (Spain) where six structural groups were described. The discriminant functions show that forest structure depends basically on diameter distribution and almost 94% of the plots are correctly classified using this methodology. The high level of correctly assigned plots indicates an accurate classification of structure that can be used to stratify beech forests with only the diameter at breast height measurement.
Highlights
We introduce a new method that uses multivariate statistics to classify or stratify beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forest plots into uniform structure types, thereby enabling the whole forest structure to be classified for the purpose of making decisions aimed at minimizing costs
In this work we present a new method that has the simultaneous improvements comparing with the methodologies related above: reducing the number of variables to measure and classify; high degree of accuracy; combining National Forest Inventory (NFI) plots with plots installed ad hoc in selected locations to compare results
Most of the stratified plots have no trees with a thin pole size, and the arithmetic difference between the percentages of medium and thick poles and seedling poles is always lower than 20%; this means that there must be a balance between the dominant stratum and the stratum developing under its cover
Summary
We introduce a new method that uses multivariate statistics to classify or stratify beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forest plots into uniform structure types, thereby enabling the whole forest structure to be classified for the purpose of making decisions aimed at minimizing costs. Regeneration in gaps of beech of different sizes imprint on the resulting canopy structure in different ways, enhancing spatial heterogeneity [2], variation in gap size is an important factor contributing to the composition of tree species composition of natural regeneration in beech-oak forests [3]. One of these attributes is the distribution of the dbh (diameter at breast high) of the trees, a technique frequently used by forest experts to describe particular forest types or silvicultural treatments [4] even. It may be smaller in even-aged stands [12], or managed stands [13], than in old-growth or unmanaged beech forests
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