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Using distance-similarity relations to evaluate the importance of neutral ecological drift

Link-Perez, Melanie A.
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1122438909

Abstract Details

2005, Master of Science, Miami University, Botany.
Neutral theory recognizes the potential importance of chance and history in the structuring of ecological communities. According to neutral theory, geographic distance should be a predictor of plant community composition, because dispersal limitation is a mechanism contributing to neutral ecological drift. Alternatively, classical niche theory suggests that environmental characteristics determine community composition. I describe the spatial variation in two contrasting prairie communities—one relict, one reconstructed—and compare the observed patterns with predictions derived from neutral and niche theories. I found an important role of ecological drift in the structuring of plant communities at both prairies. Geographic distance explained more variation in species composition than did environmental factors. Although environmental factors are correlated with community composition, the stronger correlations with geographic distance indicate that neutral processes must be taken into account when looking at community structure in small-statured herbaceous communities.
M. Henry Stevens (Advisor)
114 p.
Biology, Ecology
neutral theory; niche; spatial patterns; ecological drift; beta diversity; dispersal

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Citations

  • Link-Perez, M. A. (2005). Using distance-similarity relations to evaluate the importance of neutral ecological drift [Master's thesis, Miami University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1122438909

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Link-Perez, Melanie. Using distance-similarity relations to evaluate the importance of neutral ecological drift. 2005. Miami University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1122438909.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Link-Perez, Melanie. "Using distance-similarity relations to evaluate the importance of neutral ecological drift." Master's thesis, Miami University, 2005. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1122438909

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

miami1122438909
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© 2005, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Miami University and OhioLINK.