The use of fuzzy plant species density to indicate the effects of land-cover changes on biodiversity

摘要: Abstract The assessment of the effects land-cover changes on biodiversity requires expensive and time-consuming surveys. It is often case that few data are readily available time constraints limited resources do not allow further collection. In such cases, cost-effective methods needed. This study puts forward an method which based approximate reasoning supported by Similarity theory. suggested uses Geographic Information Systems free or low-cost floristic databases time-series data. A main assumption made, species density, i.e. number plant per unit area, could be used as a good indicator to estimate spatial due changes. produces, for given “plausible maps density” considering maps. method, reasoning, overcomes uncertainties inherent databases, allowing environmental conservation efforts benefit from these information sources. An example application presented area Butser Hill in United Kingdom. performance approach its limitations then discussed.