Using niche models of indicator species to predict the distribution of xerophytic shrub dune communities

Dune plant assemblages are affected by severe conditions, which makes them excellent models for studying the effects of species interactions and environmental conditions on community structure. We evaluate the relationship between the structure of dune communities, local environmental conditions and...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Web ecology 2016-02, Vol.16 (1), p.47-49
Main Authors: Chefaoui, R. M, Chozas, S, Correia, O, Santos, A. M. C, Hortal, J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analysis
Biological indicators
Climatic conditions
Community structure
Dunes
Environmental conditions
Geographical distribution
Habitats
Indicator species
Niches
Organic matter
Organic soils
Seasonal variations
Soil organic matter
Studies
Veganism
Vegetation
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Summary:Dune plant assemblages are affected by severe conditions, which makes them excellent models for studying the effects of species interactions and environmental conditions on community structure. We evaluate the relationship between the structure of dune communities, local environmental conditions and the suitability of climatic conditions for their characteristic species. Using data from an extensive survey of xerophytic inland sand dune scrub communities from Portugal – one of the most threatened habitat types of Europe – we identify the main gradients of vegetation composition, the different types of communities and their indicator shrub species. Then, we model the geographical responses of these species to the environment. Soil organic matter, isothermality and the habitat suitability for Stauracanthus genistoides defined the distribution of three shrub communities in the study area.
ISSN:1399-1183
2193-3081
1399-1183
DOI:10.5194/we-16-47-2016