Pattern and scale in a serpentine grassland

Kirk A. Moloney, Simon A. Levin, Nona R. Chiariello, Linda Buttel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

The relationships coupling ecologically important processes to pattern formation at different spatial and temporal scales can be explored through a multidisciplinary approach that involves observation, experimentation, and theory. We are using this approach in the study of a serpentine grassland located in the Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve of Stanford University, and we present preliminary results for that system to illustrate the approach. We argue that the development and analysis of simplified null models is an essential precursor to the successful development of more detailed models. Field and experimental studies can be used to examine the mechanisms producing pattern at small spatial and temporal scales; these then form the basis for spatially explicit, landscape level models. Simplified versions of the models can be used as computational experimental tools to explore the consequences of varying disturbance regimes and other critical influences on pattern formation; more detailed versions can be used as limited predictive tools and to guide experimental work.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)257-276
Number of pages20
JournalTheoretical Population Biology
Volume41
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1992
Externally publishedYes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

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