Neutral Landscapes

Bases for Exploration in Landscape Ecology

Datos Bibliográficos

ID5877709
AutoresQian Wang (0000-0002-8601-749X, University of Iowa), George P Malanson (0000-0001-9527-0086, University of Iowa)
Año2008
Volumen2
Número2
Páginas319-339
Fecha de publicación2008-03-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaGeography Compass (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1749-8198 • E-ISSN: 1749-8198
EditorialWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/j.1749-8198.2008.00090.x
OpenAlexW2152303633
IdiomaEN
Referencias citadas112

Neutral landscape models are computer-generated representations of the spatial pattern of habitat. Most are based on a grid of cells, although network (graph theory) representations are increasing. Representation of the landscape varies from binary (habitat - non-habitat) to nearly continuous. The motivations for this approach to the study of landscapes include concepts derived from island biogeography as well as the idea that computer experiments might be substituted for real experiments at such spatial extents. Different spatial patterns can be generated using the three primary algorithms for grid-based neutral landscapes (random, hierarchical, and fractal), while network representations are usually variations on networks derived from observed landscapes. Scale, encompassing both resolution and extent in cellular models as it is in the network models, is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed more explicitly, but it is not a fatal flaw. Numerous applications of neutral landscapes have been developed in assessing actual landscapes, evaluating spatial metrics, and studying landscape connectivity - especially in relation to organism movement or dispersal. Neutral landscapes offer geographers opportunities to pursue spatial questions and to influence questions in landscape ecology

Biological dispersal · Biology · Ecological network · Ecosystem · Ecotope · Geography · Grid · Habitat · Landscape connectivity · Landscape ecology · Landscape epidemiology · Population · Sociology · Spatial ecology · Computer Science · Land Use and Ecosystem Services · Wildlife Ecology and Conservation · Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation · Ecology