Fundamental principles of analytical methods

Abstract

In this chapter we shall first examine the conceptual framework upon which analytical methods are based. Secondly, the two broad categories of methods — classification and ordination — are introduced, and discussed in relation to vegetation structure and the analytical framework. Thirdly, we return to the distinction between qualitative and quantitative data, and consider these data types on the basis of the analytical framework and ecological considerations; and finally, we discuss the desirability of including or excluding species of very low occurrence in the data set.