Remote sensing-based predictors improve distribution models of rare, early successional and boradleaf tree species in Utah

N. E. Zimmermann; T. C. Edwards; G. G. Moisen; T. S. Frescino; J. A. Blackard

Treesearch

Remote sensing-based predictors improve distribution models of rare, early successional and boradleaf tree species in Utah

Informally Refereed

Authors:

N. E. Zimmermann, T. C. Edwards, G. G. Moisen, T. S. Frescino, J. A. Blackard

Year:

2007

Type:

Miscellaneous Publication

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Source:

Journal of Applied Ecology. 44: 1057-1067.

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Abstract

Compared to bioclimatic variables, remote sensing predictors are rarely used for predictive species modelling. When used, the predictors represent typically habitat classifications or filters rather than gradual spectral, surface or biophysical properties. Consequently, the full potential of remotely sensed predictors for modelling the spatial distribution of species remains unexplored. Here we analysed the partial contributions of remotely sensed and climatic predictor sets to explain and predict the distribution of 19 tree species in Utah. We also tested how these partial contributions were related to characteristics such as successional types or species traits.

Keywords

core-satellite species hypothesis, K-fold cross-validation, Landsat TM, partial regression, predictive habitat distribution models, species traits, variation partitioning

Citation

Zimmermann, N. E.; Edwards, T. C., Jr.; Moisen, G. G.; Frescino, T. S.; Blackard, J. A. 2007. Remote sensing-based predictors improve distribution models of rare, early successional and boradleaf tree species in Utah. Journal of Applied Ecology. 44: 1057-1067.