A weighted coenotic index (WCI): Description and application to soil animal assemblages

摘要: The Weighted Coenotic Index (WCI) is a single value that unifies total abundance, dominance structure, species richness and ecological weightings, e.g., habitat preferences positions of in the r/K continuum. Studies with simulated assemblages have shown weightings structure are major components index; must be related to group organisms studied scope investigation. WCI relative measure needs reference (control) site each investigation for conclusive interpretation. Compared several diversity indexes, has much better discriminant ability because it includes log-normal structure. This index been applied published data from field studies using protozoa (testate amoebae, ciliates) earthworms. results show an appropriate tool changes monitor recovery processes disturbed ecosystems. should calculated separately systematic (indicator) (e.g., ciliates, nematodes, mites) information will more detailed overall could, instance, mask high one group, such as conjunction low another nematodes. developed on protozoological background owing authors' familiarity this field. Mathematically practically also applicable other groups soil freshwater organisms.