Use of the β-function to estimate the skewness of species responses

摘要: Abstract Response of a species to an environmental variable may be modeled and predicted using wide spectrum different functions. Contrary other functions (Gaussian, polynomial etc), all parameters the β-function are interpretable in ecological terms. However, computational difficulties determination initiated controversial debates on applicability usefulness this function vegetation modelling gradient analysis. We propose simple algorithm for fitting observed data. Analytic properties (its ability recover known responses along gradients) tested series simulated In most cases correctly estimated responses.