Ecogeomorphic state variables and phase-space construction for quantifying the evolution of vegetated aeolian landscapes

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
This study presents a methodological framework or protocol for numerically quantifying various ecogeomorphic attributes, using a suite of mathematically defined landscape metrics, to provide a rigorous and statistical evaluation of vegetated dune field evolution. Within this framework the model parameter space can be systematically explored and simulation outcomes can be methodically compared against real-world landscapes. Based on a simplified scenario of parabolic dunes developing out of blow-outs the resulting dune field realizations are investigated as a function of variable growth vigour of 2 simulated vegetation types (pioneer grass and successional woody shrub) by establishing a typological phase-diagram of different landscape classes. The use of landscape state variables and the construction of a 3D phase-space presented here may provide a general template for quantifying many other eco-geomorphic systems on the Earth's surface.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Earth surface processes and landforms, issn : 0197-9337, 2010, vol. 35, n°. 6, p. 717-731, nombre de pages : 15, Références bibliographiques : 38 ref.

Date :
2010

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, Chichester, Wiley