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Toward a better understanding of forest spatial patterns:A generalisation of the uniform angle index

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  • Bu, Yuankun
  • Li, Weizhong
  • von Gadow, Klaus
  • Wei, Jiangtao
  • Zhao, Pengxiang
  • Yang, Yanzheng
  • Zhou, Chaofan
  • Wang, Boheng
  • Zhao, Xuan

Abstract

Spatial structure is important for characterizing a forest ecosystem. Among a myriad of spatial structure indices, the Uniform Angle Index (UAI) is rather special. The UAI quantifies a spatial pattern based on angles between neighbouring trees, thereby offering new insights into close range tree arrangements, competition, and stand dynamics. However, previous theoretical studies of the UAI have primarily relied on simulation stand and hence the uncertainty associated with them since its inception. Therefore, a mathematical derivation is still lacking. In this study, we present a theoretical framework for the UAI with the aim of broadening its applicability in quantifying the intensity of interactions among trees. Our theory is developed at two levels, the individual tree level and the stand level. The objective is to eliminate any simulation-induced uncertainty and bias and to enrich the theoretical foundation and applicability. We present a significant improvement of the UAI for estimating interaction strength among trees by the distance between an ideal and a real stand. This research highlights the opportunities for point pattern research in a new multidisciplinary science of forest ecology by growing knowledge and information along scientifically meaningful lines.

Suggested Citation

  • Bu, Yuankun & Li, Weizhong & von Gadow, Klaus & Wei, Jiangtao & Zhao, Pengxiang & Yang, Yanzheng & Zhou, Chaofan & Wang, Boheng & Zhao, Xuan, 2025. "Toward a better understanding of forest spatial patterns:A generalisation of the uniform angle index," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 503(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecomod:v:503:y:2025:i:c:s0304380025000560
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2025.111070
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Martin Ehbrecht & Dominik Seidel & Peter Annighöfer & Holger Kreft & Michael Köhler & Delphine Clara Zemp & Klaus Puettmann & Reuben Nilus & Fred Babweteera & Katharina Willim & Melissa Stiers & Danie, 2021. "Global patterns and climatic controls of forest structural complexity," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-12, December.
    2. Wang, Hongxiang & Zhang, Xiaohong & Hu, Yanbo & Pommerening, Arne, 2021. "Spatial patterns of correlation between conspecific species and size diversity in forest ecosystems," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 457(C).
    3. Lister, Andrew J. & Leites, Laura P., 2018. "Modeling and simulation of tree spatial patterns in an oak-hickory forest with a modular, hierarchical spatial point process framework," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 378(C), pages 37-45.
    4. Lata, Trevor D. & Deymier, Pierre A. & Runge, Keith & Le Tourneau, François-Michel & Ferrière, Régis & Huettmann, Falk, 2020. "Topological acoustic sensing of spatial patterns of trees in a model forest landscape," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 419(C).
    5. Genet, Astrid & Grabarnik, Pavel & Sekretenko, Olga & Pothier, David, 2014. "Incorporating the mechanisms underlying inter-tree competition into a random point process model to improve spatial tree pattern analysis in forestry," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 288(C), pages 143-154.
    6. Uria-Diez, Jaime & Pommerening, Arne, 2017. "Crown plasticity in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) as a strategy of adaptation to competition and environmental factors," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 356(C), pages 117-126.
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