Abstract
Landscapes are ecologically distinct because the flows of resources, organisms, pollutants, and sediment through space are controlled to some extent by the connections between points on the landscape. Landscape composition and pattern influence the nature and magnitude of ecological processes at a variety of spatiotemporal scales (O’Neill et al., 1988; Wiens, 1992; Li and Archer, 1997). This situation results from a set of biophysical constraints and processes, including geologic history, soils, topography, and climate. Changes in the distribution and pattern of ecological resources (e.g., woodlands, rangeland, streams and wetlands) and human activities can alter fundamental ecological processes, including the flows and balances of water, nutrients, energy, and biota. These changes in ecological processes can, in turn, influence many aspects of the environment valued by society. Characterizing and assessing landscapes at multiple spatiotemporal scales enables managers, ecologists, and designers to identify the causes of ecological change according to the scale at which the relevant ecological forces operate. Management decisions can also be made once the ecological implications of the location, juxtaposition, and the flow of resources, pollutants, and species are known.
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Li, BL. (2001). Applications of Fractal Geometry and Percolation Theory to Landscape Analysis and Assessments. In: Jensen, M.E., Bourgeron, P.S. (eds) A Guidebook for Integrated Ecological Assessments. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-8620-7_15
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-8620-7_15
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