Reliability of Ellenberg indicator values for moisture, nitrogen and soil reaction: a comparison with field measurements

摘要: Abstract. Ellenberg indicator values for moisture, nitrogen and soil reaction were correlated with measured vegetation parameters. Relationships studied through between-species between-site comparisons, using data from 74 roadside plots in 14 different plant communities The Netherlands forming a wide range. Ellenberg moisture best the average lowest contents summer. Correlations annual groundwater level spring also good. N-values appeared to be only weakly parameters, including N-mineralization available mineral N. Instead, there was strong relation biomass production. We therefore endorse Hill & Carey's (1997) suggestion that term replaced by ‘productivity values'. For reaction, many species need regional adjustment. relationship pH unsatisfactory; mean similar all sites at > 4.75 because of tolerances intermediate levels. Site (r up 0.92) total amount calcium (exchangeable Ca2+ plus Ca carbonates). It is suggested are better referred as ‘calcium values'. Using abundance weights when calculating generally improved results, but, over range conditions studied, differences small. Indicator bryophytes well line those vascular plants. noted frequency distributions quite uneven. This creates tendency site converge value most common pool. Although effect on overall correlations small, relationships tended less linear. Uneven cause which have their optimum deviate actual these species. Suggestions improvements made. It concluded system provides very valuable tool habitat calibration, provided appropriate parameters considered.