Cluster Analysis of Spatial Patterns in Malaysian Tree Species

摘要: Tree species in tropical rain forests exhibit a rich panoply of spatial patterns that beg ecological explanation. The analysis census data typically relies on statistics, which quantify the average aggregation tendency species. In this article we develop cluster-based approach complements traditional spa- tial statistics exploration and hypotheses for pattern. We apply technique to six study within fully mapped 50-ha forest peninsular Malaysia. For each identify scale(s) cor- responding tree clusters. correlation between cluster locations abiotic variables such as topography. find distribution sizes exhibits equilibrium nonequilibrium behavior depending life history. diameters clusters also varies according At different scales, evidence both niche-based dispersal-limited processes producing Our method- ology identifying scales is general; discuss method's applicability problems outside trop- ical plant ecology. Subject heading: forests, point pro- cesses, continuum percolation, dispersal limitation.