Latest Articles from Vegetation Classification and Survey Latest 99 Articles from Vegetation Classification and Survey https://vcs.pensoft.net/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 16:42:42 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://vcs.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from Vegetation Classification and Survey https://vcs.pensoft.net/ Nomenclatural revision of the syntaxa of European coastal dune vegetation https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/108560/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 5: 27-37

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.108560

Authors: Corrado Marcenò, Jiří Danihelka, Tetiana Dziuba, Wolfgang Willner, Milan Chytrý

Abstract: This manuscript provides a review of the phytosociological nomenclature of the European syntaxa included in the classes Ammophiletea arundinaceae, Honckenyo peploidis-Elymetea arenarii, and Koelerio glaucae-Corynephoretea canescentis. The nomenclature has been refined and updated following the 4th edition of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (ICPN). In the Appendix, we submit two proposals (37, 38) to conserve the names Ammophilion arundinaceae Braun-Blanquet 1933 and Medicagini marinae-Ammophiletum arundinaceae Braun-Blanquet 1933. Taxonomic reference: see references in the main text. Syntaxonomic reference: see references in the main text. Abbreviations: EVCC = European Vegetation Classification Committee; ICPN = 4th edition of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (Theurillat et al. 2021).

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Research Paper Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:03:21 +0200
How to classify forests? A case study from Central Europe https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/117703/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 5: 17-26

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.117703

Authors: Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: Aims: Inconsistent treatment of the vegetation layers is one of the main problems in the floristic classification of forests. In this study I investigate whether a classification based solely on woody species leads to units similar to the Braun-Blanquet system or to something completely different. Study area: Austria (Central Europe) and adjacent regions. Methods: 23,681 forest relevés from the Austrian Vegetation Database were classified using TWINSPAN. Spruce and pine plantations and stands with a cover of non-native woody species > 5% were excluded from the dataset. Only native tree and shrub species were used in the classification while herbs, dwarf shrubs, cryptogams and all records of woody species in the herb layer were omitted. Results: The TWINSPAN classification revealed elevation (i.e., climate) as the main floristic gradient in the data set. Within lowland communities, soil moisture was the dominant factor. The higher units of the Braun-Blanquet system were mostly well reproduced. Conclusions: The higher levels of the phytosociological forest classification (class, order, partly also alliance) can basically be defined by taking only the shrub and tree layer into account. However, all past and current classifications suffer from arbitrary exceptions to this rule. This leads to many inconsistencies and blurs the main biogeographical patterns within European forests. Here I argue that using the tree and shrub species for defining the higher levels and the understorey species for defining the lower ones is best suited to meet the properties that users would expect from a good forest classification. Taxonomic reference: Fischer et al. (2008). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016) if not stated otherwise. Abbreviations: EVC = EuroVegChecklist (Mucina et al. 2016).

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Research Paper Fri, 1 Mar 2024 09:13:15 +0200
Proposal (36) to conserve the name Philonotidion seriatae Hinterlang 1992 for the species-poor, bryophyte-dominated, non-calcareous arctic-alpine spring vegetation of Europe https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/103154/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 5: 11-15

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.103154

Authors: Michal Hájek, Tomáš Peterka, Petra Hájková, Dirk Hinterlang, Harald Zechmeister, Milan Chytrý

Abstract: According to the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature, a younger name of a syntaxon may be conserved against its older name to improve the stability of the nomenclature and avoid misunderstandings in scientific communication. Here, we propose conserving the name Philonotidion seriatae Hinterlang 1992 for arctic-alpine, bryophyte-dominated, non-calcareous spring vegetation against the names Cardamino-Montion Braun-Blanquet 1925, Cardamino-Montion Braun-Blanquet 1926, and Montion Maas 1959. In current vegetation classification systems, the two name-giving taxa of Cardamino-Montion no longer indicate the character of the vegetation corresponding to the nomenclatural type of this alliance and are instead characteristic of other currently distinguished alliances. Maintaining the oldest name Cardamino-Montion in strict adherence to the Code would be a source of errors. In the current vegetation classification systems, two similar but counter-intuitive names would then have to be used: Cardamino-Montion for arctic-alpine springs (although the name-giving taxa are more indicative of montane springs) and Epilobio nutantis-Montion for montane springs (although the name-giving taxon Epilobium nutans is indicative of arctic-alpine vegetation). Hence, there is a risk that the name Cardamino-Montion may gradually become ambiguous. We also propose conserving the name Philonotidion seriatae against Mniobryo-Epilobion hornemannii Nordhagen 1943 to prevent confusion in case of a merger of these alliances. (36) Philonotidion seriatae Hinterlang 1992 Typus: Cratoneuro-Philonotidetum Geissler 1976 (holotypus) (=) Cardamino-Montion Braun-Blanquet 1925 Typus: Bryetum schleicheri Braun-Blanquet 1925 [≡ Montio fontanae-Bryetum schleicheri Braun-Blanquet 1925 nom. corr. et invers. (alternative name)] (holotypus) (=) Cardamino-Montion Braun-Blanquet 1926 nom. superfl. [≡ Cardamino-Montion Braun-Blanquet 1925] (=) Mniobryo-Epilobion hornemannii Nordhagen 1943 Typus: Mniobryo-Epilobietum hornemannii Nordhagen 1943 (lectotypus selected by Zechmeister & Mucina 1994) (=) Montion Maas 1959 nom. superfl. [≡ Cardamino-Montion Braun-Blanquet 1925] Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med PlantBase (http://europlusmed.org; accessed 4 January 2024)

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Nomenclatural Proposal Fri, 1 Mar 2024 08:47:59 +0200
Vegetation Classification and Survey is performing well https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/118454/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 5: 1-10

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.118454

Authors: Jürgen Dengler, Idoia Biurrun, Florian Jansen, Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: On the occasion of the completion of the fourth volume of Vegetation Classification and Survey (VCS), we have analysed the performance of the journal since its inception. The number of papers and pages show a moderate increase over the years. VCS has been included in the Scopus database for more than a year and received its first CiteScore of 2.0 in summer 2023 but is not yet included in the Web of Science Core Edition. We therefore used data from the Scopus database to compare the citation impact of articles in VCS with that of 29 other ecological journals. By calculating normalized citation rates per journal and publication year, we found that VCS started at the bottom of the rankings in the first two years (28th out of 30) but improved to 26th in 2022 and 14th in 2023. Together with the known time lag and the strong positive relationships between the different citation metrics, this allows a projection of the future development of the CiteScores and, after inclusion in the Web of Science, the Journal Impact Factor (JIF). Using the Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) from the Scopus database, we identified the top 12 out of 95 VCS articles published in the first four years that received more citations than expected for their age and field. We also present the four Editors’ Choice papers of 2023, among which Strohbach and Strohbach (2023; Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 241–284) received the Editors’ Award in 2023. We conclude that VCS is on the right track, supported by the fact that in 2024 most authors will still be charged no or very low article processing charges (APCs). Abbreviations: APC = article processing charge; IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science; JIF = Journal Impact Factor; OA = open access; VCS = Vegetation Classification and Survey; WoS = Web of Science Core Edition.

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Editorial Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:00:03 +0200
Invasive species over-stabilise the vegetation of a mobile dunefield, Manawatū, New Zealand, disrupting natural succession https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/98391/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 343-360

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.98391

Authors: Gillian L. Rapson, Ashley L. Murphy, Angelina R. Smith

Abstract: Aims: Mobile, coastal dunefields around the world are under threat from invasive plants, which may out-compete native plant species. These aliens may also accelerate stabilisation of the dunes, to the complete exclusion of early successional native flora. In a mobile dunefield we examine the impact of the increasing abundance of alien species on substrate stability and successional trends of the native vegetation. Study area: Tawhirihoe Scientific Reserve, Manawatū, New Zealand. Methods: We recorded species’ covers and environmental factors in quadrats placed randomly over the mobile dunefield, and analysed the vegetation and its successional patterns via multivariate analysis. We explored the degrees of stabilisation and nativeness, referencing changes over the last three decades. Results: Our analysis reveals seven vegetation types, three with a high native component and following an established successional trend, and the others becoming dominated by alien grasses and herbs, and associated with increasing dune stability. Biodiversity is trending towards aliens, especially behind the foredunes, and aliens occupy nearly double the area of the mobile dunefield as do natives. Coverage of unvegetated or mobile sand has declined to 21 % and is projected to decline further. Conclusions: Only the foredunes and dune-slack wetlands are now in a mostly natural state, while native rear dune vegetation is becoming rare, and natural succession appears to be interrupted. Alien species over-stabilise the dunefield, facilitating further alien invasion, the longer-term implications of which are unknown. Intervention to destabilise the dunefield seems the most viable management option. Taxonomic reference: Nga Tipu o Aotearoa (http://nzflora.landcareresearch.co.nz) [accessed 10 Jan 2023].

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Research Paper Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:31:52 +0200
Classification and nomenclature of temperate forest types in Mexico https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/100796/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 329-341

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.100796

Authors: Víctor Ávila-Akerberg, Rubén Rosaliano-Evaristo, Tanya González-Martínez, Brayan Pichardo-García, Diana Serrano-González

Abstract: Aims: To analyze and synthesize the principal contributions to the creation of a classification of established forests in sub-humid, temperate climatic regions in Mexico. Methods: Documentary analysis and review of works on the classification of the vegetation of Mexico, with emphasis from 1950 to the present. To identify and analyze the terms frequently used to refer to these plant communities, the following was done: literature search, analysis of frequencies and co-occurrences of these terms that appeared in the titles of the documents. A list of associations of these communities was compiled through a documentary review. Results: Vegetation classification proposals, both nationally and internationally, tend towards the standardization of criteria and nested hierarchical integration at various levels based on physiognomic, climatic, phenological and floristic attributes. The two highest levels of organization in these proposals are based on major vegetation, defined by vegetation forms and climatic criteria as “temperate forests”. Meanwhile lower levels, including the level of associations, are based on their floristic composition. The most frequently used term to refer to these plant communities, according to the documents used in the search, is “temperate forest”, although other terms frequently used are “coniferous forest”, “pine forest”, and “oak forest”. Conclusions: Knowledge about the classification of vegetation in Mexico dates back to pre-Hispanic times. However, it was not until the second half of the 20th century that solid proposals that are influential today were put forward. Given the high biological diversity of the country, it is still a pending task to characterize and make an inventory of the diversity at the level of associations that form this type of temperate forests. Taxonomic reference: Villaseñor (2016). Abbreviations: FVT = Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt; SECLAVEMEX = Mexican Vegetation Classification System; SMO = Sierra Madre Oriental; SMOc = Sierra Madre Occidental; SMS = Sierra Madre del Sur (SMS).

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Research Paper Wed, 13 Dec 2023 17:51:04 +0200
Proposal (35) to conserve the name Festucion valesiacae https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/108437/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 323-327

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.108437

Authors: Jean-Paul Theurillat, Romeo Di Pietro, Norbert Bauer, Massimo Terzi

Abstract: For ninety years, the alliance name Festucion valesiacae has been widely and almost exclusively used to designate the al­liance of steppic, xeric grasslands on deep soils from Central Europe to western Ukraine. However, there is an earlier, hardly used heterotypic synonym, the Festucion sulcatae, that would be the correct name according to the rules [recte: Festucion rupicolae nom. corr.]. In order to preserve a well-established name, we propose to conserve the name Festucion valesiacae against the name Festucion sulcatae. In addition, we typify the name Festucion rupicolae Soó 1930 nom. corr. with the association Festuco rupicolae-Stipetum pennatae Soó 1930 nom. corr., for which we also select a neotype. This proposal is supported by the fact that the alliance Festucion valesiacae is the conserved type of the order Festucetalia valesiacae. (35) Festucion valesiacae Klika 1931 Typus: Ranunculo illyrici-Festucetum valesiacae Klika 1931 (lectotypus designated by Toman 1975: 131) (=) Festucion rupicolae Soó 1930 nom. corr. (≡ Festucion sulcatae Soó 1930 nom. inept.) Typus: Festuco rupicolae-Stipetum pennatae Soó 1930 nom. corr. (lectotypus hoc loco) Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2023) unless otherwise indicated. Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: EVC = EuroVegChecklist (Mucina et al. 2016); ICPN = 4th edition of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (Theurillat et al. 2021).

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Nomenclatural Proposal Mon, 11 Dec 2023 19:35:28 +0200
Nomenclatural comments on the alliance Pino sibiricae-Laricion sibiricae https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/104301/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 319-321

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.104301

Authors: Oleg A. Anenkhonov

Abstract: The name Pino sibiricae-Laricion sibiricae was introduced in 1988 by Dostálek et al. and then again in 2004 by Ermakov. Further, the latter name, despite of homonymy, has been accepted in several Russian literature sources on the basis of a misapplication of ICPN Art. 37. The validity and legitimacy of the name introduced by Dostálek et al. are discussed and clarified, whereas Ermakov’s illegitimate homonym must be rejected according to Art. 31. Taxonomic reference: Catalogue of Life Checklist, Version COL23.5 (https://doi.org/10.48580/dfs6) [accessed 16 November 2023]. Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (Theurillat et al. 2021).

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Short Communication Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:19:11 +0200
Syntaxonomic classification of forb steppes and related vegetation of subalpine and alpine belts in the Pamir-Alai Mountains (Tajikistan, Middle Asia) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/102634/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 291-317

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.102634

Authors: Sebastian Świerszcz, Marcin Nobis, Grzegorz Swacha, Sylwia Nowak, Arkadiusz Nowak

Abstract: Aims: To complete the syntaxonomic scheme of subalpine forb steppes in the Pamir-Alai Mountains in Tajikistan with some remarks on its environmental predictors. Study area: Tajikistan. Methods: A total of 149 relevés were sampled in 2014 and 2021 using the seven-degree cover-abundance scale of the Braun-Blanquet scheme. These were classified with a modified TWINSPAN algorithm with pseudospecies cut-off levels of 0%, 2%, 5% and 25%, and total inertia as a measure of cluster heterogeneity. Diagnostic species were determined using the phi coefficient as a fidelity measure. Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) was used to show compositional differences between the distinguished alpine and subalpine grassland units. Results: Our classification revealed 12 clusters of alpine and subalpine grassland vegetation in Middle Asia. A total of nine new associations and three communities were distinguished. New vegetation types at potential class rank for Irano-Turanian subalpine and alpine grasslands have been proposed: forb steppes with Eremogone griffithii and Nepeta podostachys in subalpine and alpine belts and alpine grasslands with Festuca alaica and Festuca kryloviana for mesic habitats in the alpine belt. The main factors differentiating the species composition were the mean diurnal temperature range, the sum of annual precipitation, precipitation seasonality and the minimum temperature of the coldest month. Conclusions: Our study sheds light on the open habitat vegetation in the Pamir-Alai Mountains and has contributed to the consistent hierarchical classification of the vegetation of the eastern Irano-Turanian region. Subalpine and alpine forb steppes are a very interesting and distinct grassland type in Middle Asia. The syntaxonomic position of some of the distinguished communities is still unclear and further research on this type of alpine and subalpine vegetation within the mountains of Middle Asia is needed. Taxonomic references: The nomenclature of the vascular plants follows Plants of the World Online (POWO 2023) and problematic taxonomic issues were solved according to The World Flora Online (WFO 2023). Nomenclature of Stipa spp. follows Nobis et al. (2020, 2022) and of Geranium spp. Cherepanov (1995). The nomenclature of bryophytes follows Ignatov et al. (2006). Abbreviations: DCA = Detrended Correspondence Analysis.

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Research Paper Fri, 24 Nov 2023 18:02:39 +0200
Syntaxonomic ranks, biogeography and typological inflation https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/101648/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 285-290

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.101648

Authors: Javier Loidi

Abstract: To reduce the typological inflation observed in some territories where intensive phytosociological studies have been carried out and numerous descriptive papers have been published, an outline of the biogeographical amplitude of the different syntaxonomic ranks is proposed. Phytosociological classes are divided into five main vegetation clusters: 1. Zonal vegetation, determined mainly by climatic conditions; 2. Azonal coastal and saline vegetation; 3. Azonal rocky vegetation; 4. Azonal wetland and aquatic vegetation; 5. Highly disturbed anthropogenic vegetation. In each of these, the various ranks (class, order, alliance, association and subassociation) have a particular range which is expressed by the biogeographical territory in which they most likely occur. This area can refer to different respective categories: kingdom, region, province, sector and district. Some additional comments about typological inflation are made in order to focus on two phenomena: desire for fame and geographic drift.

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Forum Paper Fri, 24 Nov 2023 17:13:32 +0200
A first syntaxonomic description of the vegetation of the Karstveld in Namibia https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/99045/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 241-284

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.99045

Authors: Ben J. Strohbach, Marianne M. Strohbach

Abstract: Aims: The Karstveld in Namibia has been recognized as an area of high plant diversity. However, this area is also recognised as a hotspot of various forms of degradation including bush encroachment. Minimal baseline data on the composition and diversity of vegetation in this area is available, therefore this paper is a first attempt to rectify this data deficiency. Study area: The Karstveld in Namibia is formed around the Otavi Mountain Range in northern Central Namibia, consisting of strongly karstified carbonate bedrock, rising up to 2000 m a.s.l. The Karstveld includes the Ovambo Basin plains with shallow calcrete soils north of the range, up to the Omuramba Ovambo. Because of orographic effects, the area receives some of the highest rainfall in Namibia, with up to 600 mm per year. Methods: A set of 889 relevés with 868 species was selected from the GVID ID AF-NA-001 database. A partial data set, using trees, shrubs, dwarf shrubs and grasses only, was used for the classification with modified TWINSPAN. The initial result yielded four main groups, according to which the data was split and further classified. Several vegetation types observed during field surveys were not reflected in the classification results; these were refined using Cocktail with known characteristic species. Results: The four main units represented wetlands and grasslands with six associations, a Thornbush savanna – Karstveld transition zone with four associations, Kalahari vegetation with four associations and the Karstveld proper with eight associations. The latter are grouped together as the Terminalietea prunioides, with two orders and three alliances recognised under them. We describe 16 associations according to the ICPN. Conclusions: Although the associations presented in this paper are clearly defined, there exists a high degree of diversity within these. The Karstveld is also extraordinary species rich within the context of the arid to semi-arid Namibian environment. Taxonomic reference: Klaassen and Kwembeya (2013) for vascular plants, with the exception of the genus Acacia s.l. (Fabaceae), for which Kyalangalilwa et al. (2013) was followed. Abbreviations: ga = annual grass; gp = perennial grass; GPS = Global Positioning System, referring to a hand-held ground receiver; hl = herb layer, containing all hemicryptophytes, therophytes and geophytes, but excluding grasses (Poaceae); ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (Theurillat et al. 2021); MAP = mean annual precipitation; NMS = nonmetric multidimensional scaling (Kruskal 1964); RDL = Red Data List (IUCN Species Survival Commission 2001); s1 = tall shrubs, i.e. multi-stemmed phanerophytes between 1 and 5 m; s2 = short shrubs, i.e. chamaephytes or ‘dwarf shrubs’ below 1 m; SOTER = Global and National Soils and Terrain Digital Database (FAO 1993); t1 = tall trees, > 10 m; t2 = short trees, between 5 and 10 m; t3 = low trees, i.e. single-stemmed phanerophytes between 2 and 5 m; TWINSPAN = Two Way Indicator Species Analysis (Roleček et al. 2009); WGS84 = World Geodetic System, 1984 ensemble.

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Research Paper Tue, 24 Oct 2023 18:28:19 +0300
Transcaucasian Vegetation Database – a phytosociological database of the Southern Caucasus https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/105521/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 231-240

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.105521

Authors: Pavel Novák, Veronika Kalníková, Daniel Szokala, Alla Aleksanyan, Ketevan Batsatsashvili, George Fayvush, Sandro Kolbaia, George Nakhutsrishvili, Vojtěch Sedláček, Tadeáš Štěrba, Dominik Zukal

Abstract: The Caucasus is a hotspot of global biodiversity. However, even in the era of big data, this region remains underrepresented in public vegetation-plot databases. The Transcaucasian Vegetation Database (GIVD code AS-00-005) is a novel dataset which primarily aims to compile, store and share vegetation-plot records sampled by the Braun-Blanquet approach and originating from Transcaucasia (the Southern Caucasus), i.e. the countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. The database currently contains 2,882 vegetation plots. The oldest plots originate from 1929, the newest from 2022, and their collection is ongoing. The data include mesophilous forests (phytosociological class Carpino-Fagetea) and various alpine and subalpine communities (e.g. Carici-Kobresietea, Loiseleurio-Vaccinietea) – selected other habitats are also represented. Most of the plots (84%) are georeferenced, 36% with high precision of 25 m or less. The database includes 2,500 taxon names; Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae and Rosaceae represent the most common families. Vascular plants are recorded in all plots, while data on species composition of bryophytes are available for 11% of plots. The database intends to contribute to the complex biodiversity research of this biologically unique territory. The data might be used in diverse projects in botany, biogeography, ecology and nature protection. Taxonomic reference: The Plant List (http://www.theplantlist.org/ [Accessed 10 Jan 2023]). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: TVD = Transcaucasian Vegetation Database.

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Long Database Report Mon, 16 Oct 2023 18:55:56 +0300
Priorities in journal selection for authors, reviewers, editors, librarians and science funders https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/110296/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 219-229

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.110296

Authors: Jürgen Dengler

Abstract: With this Forum contribution I wish to shed light on the problematic developments in scientific publishing resulting from the strong push of science funders towards gold open access (OA). This has given rise to numerous “predatory” journals, that maximise profit at the expense of scientific quality. With a bibliometric analysis in the field of ecology I demonstrate that over the period 2014–2022 the publication numbers in “predatory” OA journals have grown exponentially (+44% annually), while in all other journal types, article numbers were stagnating or even decreasing since a few years. Then I highlight how different OA publication models from society-owned journals to publisher-owned “predatory” journals, differ in the prices authors pay and how the income is split between effective costs, pure profit and money transferred back to science. To help with the recognition of the different journal types, I provide a list journals in the fields of ecology and organismal botany that are owned by academic societies, as well as a list of criteria to recognize “predatory” journals. Authors, reviewers and editors should consider carefully where they submit papers or provide volunteer service. My suggestion is to prioritize society-owned journals, while avoiding cooperation with “predatory” journals. Science funders and libraries have played a major role in the negative developments reviewed in this paper, but at the same time they have the capacity to change the course, mainly by two steps: In the short term they should link the payment of article processing charges (APCs) to strict quality criteria, while in the medium term, they should overcome the gold OA system towards a diamond OA system that would avoid the inflation of low-quality publications and remove barriers not only from readers, but also from authors, while at the same time likely reducing the overall costs. Abbreviations: APC = article processing charge; AVS = Applied Vegetation Science; IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science; COVID-19 = Coronavirus disease 2019; DOAJ = Directory of Open Access Journals; JIF = 2-year Journal Impact Factor of the Web of Science; JVS = Journal of Vegetation Science; OA = open access; VCS = Vegetation Classification and Survey; WoS = Web of Science Core Collection.

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Forum Paper Mon, 2 Oct 2023 16:05:59 +0300
Vegetation survey methodology in arable weeds is reported with less detail from vegetation science than weed science https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/105300/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 209-218

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.105300

Authors: Jana Bürger, Filip Küzmič

Abstract: Aims: Understand and illustrate differences and common methods in surveys of arable weed vegetation from the two scientific disciplines Vegetation science and Weed science; analyse the relationship between study aims and the employed methodology; assess in how much detail methodologies are reported and whether this changed over time. Study area: Europe. Methods: Literature review, classification of studies according to their reported aims and according to the journal scope. Results: Survey methods were reported in greater detail in studies aiming to describe management effects on weed vegetation compared to phytosociological studies. Methods employed in vegetation science and weed science differ in plot sizes, surveyed field parts and the seasonal timing of the survey. Conclusions: We recommend for future weed surveys to record and report on plot size and position relative to field limits, recording date, abundance scale, as well as the crop grown in a field. This information should also be retained when digitising published data and compiling large databases. A data standard should be developed in an interdisciplinary process.

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Review and Synthesis Mon, 2 Oct 2023 16:05:30 +0300
Proposals (33–34) to conserve the name Poo-Astragalion and to conserve the name Poo-Astragaletum sesamei with a conserved type, and requests (5–7) for a binding decision on the name-giving taxa in the same names and the inversion of the name Poo-Astragaletum sesamei https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/108769/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 203-207

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.108769

Authors: Federico Fernández-González, Massimo Terzi, Romeo Di Pietro, Jean-Paul Theurillat

Abstract: The alliance name Poo-Astragalion has been widely used by Iberian phytosociologists for nearly fifty years to indicate a type of sheep pastures thriving on base-rich substrates. This alliance is currently classified in the order Poetalia bulbosae and class Poetea bulbosae. However, the revision of its original diagnosis highlights that this alliance name must be considered as an alternative name to the largely disused name Medicagini-Brachypodion distachyi. In order to stabilize the nomenclature, we propose the conservation of the traditionally used name Poo-Astragalion. On the other hand, the type association of the alliance (Poo-Astragaletum sesamei) turns out to be a superfluous name for another association neglected in the syntaxonomical literature, the Astragalo scorpioidis-Medicaginetum truncatulae. Hence, with the same objective of stabilizing the nomenclature, we propose the designation of a conserved neotype for the Poo-Astragaletum sesamei and the conservation of this name against the earlier heterotypic synonym in case of union of both associations. At the same time, we propose to complete the two names Poo-Astragalion and Poo-Astragaletum sesamei by selecting Poa bulbosa and Astragalus sesameus as the name-giving taxa, and to invert the name Poo-Astragaletum in accordance with its neotype (Astragalo sesamei-Poetum bulbosae). (33) Poo-Astragalion Rivas Goday et Ladero 1970: 165–169, nom. cons. propos. Typus: Poo-Astragaletum sesamei Rivas-Goday et Ladero 1970: 166–170 (holotypus). (≡) Medicagini-Brachypodion distachyi Rivas-Goday et Rivas-Martínez in Rivas Goday et Ladero 1970: 165–166 (alternative name) [original form: “Medicago-Brachypodion”] (34) Poo-Astragaletum sesamei Rivas-Goday et Ladero 1970: 166–170, nom. cons. et typus cons. propos. [original forms: “Poo-Astragaletum”, ”Poeto-Astragaletum sesamei”] Typus cons. propos.: neotypus hoc loco (see below). (=) Astragalo scorpioidis-Medicaginetum truncatulae Rivas Goday et Borja 1959 nom. corr. [original form: Astragalo scorpioidis-Medicaginetum tribuloidis nom. inept. (Rivas Goday and Borja 1959: 475, table 2)] Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2023). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: EVC = EuroVegChecklist (Mucina et al. 2016); ICPN = 4th edition of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (Theurillat et al. 2021).

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Nomenclatural Proposal Mon, 25 Sep 2023 09:51:23 +0300
Dynamics of inselberg landscapes and their adjacent areas in the Sudano-Guinean zone of Benin through remote sensing analysis https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/89746/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 189-202

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.89746

Authors: Ranmi Elsa Denise Ayeko, Sêwanoudé Scholastique Mireille Toyi, Achille Ephrem Assogbadjo, Brice Augustin Sinsin

Abstract: Aims: Land cover change in inselbergs and adjacent areas was studied from 2003 to 2018 in a region facing anthropogenic pressures to assess dynamics and preserve rare endemic species. Study area: Inselbergs and their adjacent areas in the Sudano-Guinean zone of Benin are included in this study. Methods: Land cover classes of inselbergs and adjacent areas were obtained through supervised classification of Sentinel-2 (2018) and Spot 5 (2003) satellite images. A Chi-square test was used to compare protected and unprotected LULC classes of inselbergs, with 10 m spatial resolution. Results: The results showed that forest and woodland decreased respectively from 8.55% to 3.05% and from 17.63% to 4.79% between 2003 and 2018 while tree and shrub savanna, and grassland increased respectively from 6.52% to 9.49% and from 7.60% to 16.69%. Field and fallow increased from 5.57% in 2003 to 26.12% in 2018 and tree plantation from 6.05% to 13.47%. The analysis of spatial comparisons using the chi-square test showed that the presence of inselbergs in a protected area has no significant effect on their land use. Conclusions: Natural vegetation in inselbergs and adjacent areas is being converted into human-made landscapes by farmers. An urgent conservation plan is needed, including awareness campaigns, tree planting, and sustainable forest management. Taxonomic reference: Akoègninou et al. (2006). Abbreviations: DEM = Digital Elevation Model; GCP = Ground Control Point; LULC = Land Use/Land Cover; ROI = Region of Interest; SRTM = Satellite imagery data, Shuttle radar topography mission.

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Research Paper Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:03:55 +0300
Vegetation types of the Arid Chaco in Central-Western Argentina https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/100532/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 167-188

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.100532

Authors: Sebastián R. Zeballos, Alicia T. R. Acosta, Walter D. Agüero, Rodrigo J. Ahumada, Martín G. Almirón, Daihana S. Argibay, Daniel N. Arroyo, Lisandro J. Blanco, Fernando N. Biurrun, Juan J. Cantero, Justo Márquez, Alejandro Quiroga, Raúl E. Quiroga, Marcelo R. Cabido

Abstract: Aims: We address the following questions: 1) Which are the main vegetation types that currently occur in the Arid Chaco? 2) Do those vegetation types differ in terms of floristic composition, endemism, chorotypes and life forms? and 3) Is there any spatial association between the vegetation types and the environmental heterogeneity of the Arid Chaco? Study area: The southwestern extreme of the Gran Chaco, in Central-Western Argentina. Methods: The survey was based on a dataset comprising 654 relevés collected according to the Braun-Blanquet method. Data were classified by the hierarchical ISOmetric feature mapping and Partition Around Medoids (ISOPAM), and ordinated through isometric feature mapping (ISOMAP). Bioclimatic and edaphic variables were related to the ISOMAP ordination. Results: We recorded 439 vascular plant species, 62 endemic at the national level and 22 endemic species restricted to the study and surrounding environments in Central-Western Argentina. A total of nine vegetation types, belonging to four major clusters, were identified. The most prominent chorotypes included species distributed in the Chaco region and in the Arid Chaco/Monte phytogeographic units. The predominant life forms were micro- and nano-phanerophytes, followed by hemicryptophytes, chamaephytes and mesophanerophytes. Conclusions: Major results highlighted that xerophytic shrublands are the most common vegetation types in this area as a result of the historical and present use, while old growth forests were constrained to areas with low anthropogenic disturbance in the last decades or to protected areas. Most vegetation types (with the exception of halophytic environments) are poorly differentiated from a floristic point of view; however, they clearly differ in physiognomy. The floristic composition of the vegetation types described revealed numerous species in common with other sectors of the Chaco of northern Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. Although the number of species restricted to the Arid Chaco was quite low, the most relevant chorotype included species with Western and Eastern Chaco distribution, conferring a clear Chaquenian identity to this area and discriminating it from other phytogeographic units. Taxonomic reference: Catálogo de las Plantas Vasculares del Cono Sur (Zuloaga et al. 2008) and its online update (http://www.darwin.edu.ar). Abbreviations: ISOMAP = isometric feature mapping; ISOPAM = isometric partitioning around medoids.

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Research Paper Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:43:53 +0300
Ecological and structural differentiation of the Sudanian woodlands in the Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari, Benin https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/91126/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 139-165

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.91126

Authors: Eméline S. P. Assèdé, S. S. Honoré Biaou, Hidirou Orou, Madjidou Oumorou, Coert J. Geldenhuys, Paxie W. Chirwa, Brice Sinsin

Abstract: Aims: This study aims to: i) differentiate the plant associations in the Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari (BRP), ii) determine the ecological characteristics of their habitats and iii) present distribution maps on different soil types. Study area: The BRP, located in the Sudanian Zone of Benin. Methods: 202 phytosociological relevés were sampled according to the Braun-Blanquet method within the BRP. Ordination was performed using Detrended Correspondence Analysis to evaluate vegetation patterns. Soil parameters were used to characterize the vegetation types. Results: The numerical analysis of 202 plots and 249 plant species showed two major floristic groups that correlated with a moisture gradient: drylands versus wetlands. The dryland group was a mixture of woodland and shrub savanna, the dominant ecosystems of the study area. The wetland group encompassed species primarily from riparian forest, tree savanna and grass savanna on floodplains. Syntaxonomical analysis of the dryland group showed rocky and gravelly soil associations (Burkeo africanae-Detarietum microcarpi) and soils associated with or without fine gravels (Andropogono gayani-Terminalietum avicennioidis, Andropogono gayani-Senegalietum dudgeonii and Terminalietum leiocarpae). Syntaxonomical analysis of the wetland group showed riparian forest associations on sandy-clay soil (Coletum laurifoliae, Borassetum aethiopi and Hyparrhenio glabriusculae-Mitragynetum inermis) and floodplain associations on silt-clay soil (Terminalio macropterae-Mitragynetum inermis, Brachiario jubatae-Terminalietum macropterae, Sorghastro bipennati-Vachellietum hockii). Conclusions: Eleven new associations were identified in this study. If the distribution of plant associations was determined by different soil properties, the soil humidity would be one of the main ecological factors determining the establishment of plant species and thus plant association development. Taxonomic reference: Akoègninou et al. (2006), Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants (APG IV, 2016). Abbreviations: BRP = Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari; CBD = Convention on Biological Diversity; CCA = Constrained Correspondence Analysis; DCA = Detrended Correspondence Analysis; GPS UTM = Global Positioning System Universal Transverse Mercator.

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Research Paper Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:40:00 +0300
Should we estimate plant cover in percent or on ordinal scales? https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/98379/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 131-138

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.98379

Authors: Jürgen Dengler, Iwona Dembicz

Abstract: Question: We explored the error resulting from different methods for recording the cover of plants in vegetation plots, specifically the direct estimation of percent cover vs. the use of ordinal cover scales (7-step Braun-Blanquet and 5-step Hult-Sernander-Du Rietz). Methods: We simulated 121 plant species of different cover, sampled with 13 different levels of estimation precision. Estimation precision was either based on a constant coefficient of variation (0.1–1.0) across all cover values or on empirical data from Hatton et al. (1986, Journal of Range Management 39: 91–92) (× 0.5, × 1.0, × 1.5). Each sampling was repeated 10 times. Subsequently, we determined the mean relative and absolute errors that occurred in the data used for ensuing numerical analyses. Results: Except for few cases with unrealistic settings (very high estimation error and ignorance of species with lower cover values), direct estimation in percent yielded better results than the use of ordinal scales. Based on the empirical values of estimation accuracy, the use of ordinal scales inflated the mean absolute and relative errors nearly 2-fold in case of the 7-step Braun-Blanquet scale and about 1.5-fold in case of the Hult-Sernander-Du Rietz scale if only considering cover values above 1%. Conclusions: From our personal experience, the careful application of an ordinal scale is not faster than the direct estimation of percent cover. For this reason, we see no plausible argument supporting the use of ordinal cover scales when essentially all subsequent analyses are numeric. Abbreviations: Br.-Bl. = 7-step variant of the Braun-Blanquet scale and its numerical replacement as in Table 2; CV = coefficient of variation; H.-S. = Hult-Sernander-Du Rietz scale and its numerical replacement as shown in Table 1.

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VCS Methods Fri, 7 Jul 2023 17:00:03 +0300
Proposal (32) to conserve the name Agrostion castellanae with a conserved type https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/105269/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 127-130

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.105269

Authors: Massimo Terzi, Federico Fernández-González, Romeo Di Pietro, Jean-Paul Theurillat

Abstract: The alliance name Agrostion castellanae has been widely used for nearly sixty years to indicate a type of acidophilic perennial grasslands occurring in the Iberian Peninsula. At present, the alliance is classified in the order Agrostietalia castellanae, and the class Stipo giganteae-Agrostietea castellanae. However, the nomenclatural type (lectotype) of the Agrostion castellanae is a therophytic grassland, namely the association Holco setiglumis-Anthoxanthetum aristati, that was consistently classified for two decades by Iberian authors within the therophytic class Helianthemetea guttati. In order to preserve the name Agrostion castellanae in its current use, we propose to designate the association Festuco amplae-Agrostietum castellanae as the conserved type of the alliance. (32) Agrostion castellanae Rivas Goday 1958 corr. 1964: 353 nom. cons. propos. Typus: Festuco amplae-Agrostietum castellanae Rivas-Martínez et Belmonte 1986: 418 (typus cons. propos.). (≡) Agrostion castellano-tenuis Rivas-Goday 1958: 626 nom. inept. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2023). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: EVC = EuroVegChecklist (Mucina et al. 2016); ICPN = 4th edition of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (Theurillat et al. 2021).

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Nomenclatural Proposal Fri, 7 Jul 2023 17:00:02 +0300
Vegetation structure and composition at different elevational intervals in the arid Tankwa Karoo National Park, South Africa https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/86310/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 115-126

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.86310

Authors: Mogamat Igshaan Samuels, Manam Saaed, Shayne Jacobs, Mmoto Leonard Masubelele, Helga Van der Merwe, Lesego Khomo

Abstract: Study area: The study was conducted in the Tankwa Karoo National Park, one of the driest areas in South Africa. Historic overgrazing has resulted in the poor and often degraded state of vegetation in large parts of the Tanqua Karoo region. Aim: This study assessed the spatial variation of vegetation structure and composition in the three main vegetation types namely: Tanqua Karoo (TK), Tanqua Wash Riviere (TWR) and Tanqua Escarpment Shrubland (TES), along an elevational gradient. Method: Using the point intercept survey method, vegetation cover, plant height, species diversity, life forms, proportions of perennials and annuals were examined in 43 sites, widely distributed in these vegetation types. Results: There were 150 vascular plant species belonging to 83 genera and 29 families recorded across all sites. The most diverse vegetation type was TES with 96 species belonging to 61 genera and 26 families. The vegetation structure was comprised mainly of shrubs and dwarf shrubs with a high proportion of leaf and stem succulent species. The mean perennial vegetation cover throughout the study area was 28 and annuals covered 22%, but this cover varied significantly between the vegetation types. The most dominant life forms were chamaephytes, which comprised 64% of all species, with cryptophytes (18%), therophytes (16%) and nanophanerophytes (2%) less abundant. Surveyed sites in the TES showed a clear association with each other but there was an overlap in the species composition and environmental conditions between some TWR and TK sites. This study highlighted the important role of elevation and topography as drivers of vegetation characteristics. Conclusion: The findings from this study can be used as a vegetation baseline to identify and prioritise degraded areas for active restoration in order to limit further degradation. Considering climate change, elevational studies may provide additional insight into species dynamics across landscapes. Taxonomic reference: Plants of Southern Africa Checklist (South African National Biodiversity Institute 2016). Abbreviations: ANOVA = analysis of variance; GPS = Global Positioning System; LFA = Landscape Function Assessment; NDVI = Normalized difference vegetation index; PCA = principal component analysis; PCo-A = principal co-ordinate analysis; TES = Tanqua Escarpment Shrubland; TK = Tanqua Karoo; TKNP = Tankwa Karoo National Park; TWR = Tanqua Wash Riviere.

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Research Paper Fri, 7 Jul 2023 17:00:01 +0300
South American terrestrial biomes as geocomplexes: a geobotanical landscape approach https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/96710/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 75-114

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.96710

Authors: Gonzalo Navarro, Federico Luebert, José Antonio Molina

Abstract: The classic and current perception of biome in its various meanings is fundamentally based on vegetation types that are considered as discrete or independent and fragmented entities in the landscape. Vegetation units are characterized by their physiognomy, which is based on the dominant life forms and mainly determined by climatic conditions. However, vegetation units are associated and mutually interacting at a landscape level. They are determined by local or regional, climatic, topographic and edaphic gradients within a given territory or geographic area. In this work, we propose a new conceptual and methodological approach aiming to better understand the biome concept in a landscape framework, developing ideas already partially advanced by us. In this sense, we consider the biome as a landscape complex (geocomplex), that spatially includes one to several vegetation geoseries which, in turn, each comprise the following possible geomorphologically linked vegetation series: i) the potential natural climatophilic vegetation (zonal vegetation) and their seral successional stages which occur repeatedly in the landscape; ii) edapho-xerophyllous vegetation (azonal vegetation such as occurs on rocky outcrops or sandy soils); and iii) edapho-hygrophilic vegetation (azonal vegetation such as flooded vegetation on river banks). Based on surveys and field data (more than ca. 300 transects) obtained by the authors in most South American countries from 1990 to the present, 33 South American geocomplex biomes and 16 macrobiomes were identified and synoptically characterized, through graphic general zonation models (phyto-topographic type-profiles) extrapolated from numerous observations along representative bioclimatical, geomorphological and biogeographically stratified transects. Field data and transect-plots are currently being processed to be included into the “GIVD database”. Taxonomic reference: Tropicos.org, Missouri Botanical Garden (https://tropicos.org) [accessed 1 Feb 2023]. In Memoriam: Salvador Rivas-Martínez

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Review and Synthesis Thu, 11 May 2023 09:54:22 +0300
CACTUS – Vegetation database of the Dutch Caribbean Islands https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/101114/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 69-74

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.101114

Authors: John Janssen, Erik Houtepen, André van Proosdij, Stephan Hennekens

Abstract: The vegetation database CACTUS (registered in GIVD under SA-00-004) aims to bring together all plot-based relevés from the Dutch Caribbean Islands that are available from literature, unpublished resources, and recent field surveys. The database currently contains 2,701 vegetation descriptions. The database is used for vegetation classification, to investigate vegetation change over time, to assist in the planning of vegetation surveys, as a source for plant species distribution maps, and to inform nature conservation and policy. Taxonomic references: Van Proosdij (2012) for the Leeward Islands, Axelrod (2017, 2021) for the Windward Islands, except for St. Martin (Howard 1974-1989).

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Long Database Report Tue, 2 May 2023 12:03:00 +0300
Proposal (31) to conserve the name Brachypodietalia pinnati Korneck 1974 as a nomen conservandum with a conserved type https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/100985/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 63-68

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.100985

Authors: Jürgen Dengler, Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: After a nomenclatural review of the available names for the order of mesoxeric grasslands within the class Festuco-Brometea, we propose the conservation of the name Brachypodietalia pinnati (with a conserved type) against the names Brometalia erecti and Scorzoneretalia villosae. In syntaxonomic concepts not accepting a single order for the mesoxeric grasslands of Europe, the latter names could still be used, as they are based on different nomenclatural types. (31) Brachypodietalia pinnati Korneck 1974: 123 nom. cons. propos. Typus: Cirsio-Brachypodion pinnati Hadač & Klika in Klika and Hadač 1944 (lectotypus; Dengler et al. 2003: 608; typus cons. propos.). (=) Brometalia erecti W. Koch 1926: 20. Typus: Bromion erecti W. Koch 1926: 121 (holotypus). (=) Scorzoneretalia villosae Kovačević 1959: 7 Typus: Scorzonerion villosae Horvatić ex Kovačević 1959 (holotypus) Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature, 4th edn (Theurillat et al. 2021).

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Nomenclatural Proposal Tue, 11 Apr 2023 21:54:29 +0300
A vector map of the world’s terrestrial biotic units: subbiomes, biomes, ecozones and domains https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/99167/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 59-61

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.99167

Authors: Javier Loidi, Gonzalo Navarro-Sánchez, Denys Vynokurov

Abstract: A vector map of biotic units encompassing the entire terrestrial area of the earth is provided. It contains a hierarchical system of domains, ecozones, biomes and subbiomes, as a large-scale description of the terrestrial ecosystems. The map can be used for different analysis, including monitoring of climate change.

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Report Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:24:45 +0200
Modeling the potential distribution of floristic assemblages of high Andean wetlands dominated by Juncaceae and Cyperaceae in the Argentine Puna https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/95779/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 47-58

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.95779

Authors: Elvira Casagranda, Andrea E. Izquierdo

Abstract: Aims: The aim of this work was to model the distribution of suitable environmental conditions of vegas with specific floristic characteristics. Vegas are high Andean wetlands that represent the main sequestered carbon stocks, biodiversity hotspots, and water regulating systems in the region. In these wetlands, plant communities are the main biological factor that determines functional processes, and plant species assemblages are associated with different ecogeographic features. Study area: Argentine Central Andean Puna ecoregion. Methods: For two different floristic assemblages of vegas, we develop ecological niche models of n-dimensional minimum volume ellipsoids through NicheToolBox, then obtain potential distribution maps. One floristic assemblage was dominated by the cushion-structured plant Oxychloe andina (Juncaceae) and the other by plants of the Cyperaceae family. Results: Elevation and precipitation were the main environmental factors determining the distribution of the two floristic assemblages. Juncaceae dominated vegas tend to be located in high, humid, and cold places, while Cyperaceae vegas are found at a lower elevation, with less humidity, and higher temperatures. According to the dominant climatic gradient in the region, potential distribution maps show that vegas of Juncaceae are commonly found towards the Northeast of the Puna while Cyperaceae vegas are more frequent at lower elevations to the South of the region. Conclusions: This study represents the first approach to niche modeling based on plant communities in vegas of the Argentine Puna, providing knowledge on the environmental factors that limit their distribution. This information could serve as a planning tool in a region exposed to growing perturbations such as mining and climate change. Taxonomic reference: Zuloaga et al. (2019). Abbreviations: AUC = Area Under the ROC Curve; NDVI = Normalized Difference Vegetation Index; ROC = Receiver Operating Characteristic.

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Research Paper Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:15:02 +0200
Plant diversity in traditional agroecosystems of North Morocco https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/86024/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 31-45

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.86024

Authors: Soufian Chakkour, Erwin Bergmeier, Stefan Meyer, Jalal Kassout, Mohamed Kadiri, Mohammed Ater

Abstract: Questions: While globalisation favours intensive yield-maximizing agriculture with cropping practices that entail agrobiodiversity loss, extensive production systems still exist in areas of marginal lands such as in mountainous regions or islands. It is overdue to study such systems, their sustainability and ecology as potential models for decentralized environmentally balanced land-use. For that purpose, we investigated the composition of the wild arable (segetal) flora in traditional thermo- to mesomediterranean cereal-growing agroecosystems of northwestern Morocco. Study area: The Tingitane (Tangier) Peninsula in the Northwest of Morocco. Methods: A sample of 94 relevés was collected in six areas in the foreland of the Rif Mountains. Results: We found 209 species in 150 genera and 41 families, a mean of 22 species per relevé and a Shannon index of 3.04±0.06. A TWINSPAN classification revealed a high level of similarity between the areas, with the plant communities corresponding to the order Brometalia rubenti-tectorum, but also differences in species composition as a result of climatic, soil and land-use effects. Therophytes dominated, but biennial and perennial herbs indicating shallow tillage and fields under fallow were also common. Almost half of the species found were agrestal species (confined to arable fields), and almost a third were apophytes (native species occurring in fields but also in natural habitats). Twenty-nine species (14%) of the segetal flora were regional endemics and six are considered nationally rare. Although there is evidence of recent structural and floristic diversity decline, traditional agroecosystems tend to favour native species including some of particular conservation interest. Conclusions: The traditional agroecosystems of the Rif Mountains fulfil criteria of High Nature Value agriculture but, in view of recent socio-economic change, require support by policy for their maintenance. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med PlantBase (http://www.europlusmed.org) [accessed 26 Nov 2022]. Syntaxonomic reference: EuroVegChecklist (Mucina et al. 2016). Abbreviations: TWINSPAN = Two Way Indicator Species Analysis.

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Research Paper Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:15:01 +0200
Ecological Indicator Values for Europe (EIVE) 1.0 https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/98324/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 7-29

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.98324

Authors: Jürgen Dengler, Florian Jansen, Olha Chusova, Elisabeth Hüllbusch, Michael P. Nobis, Koenraad Van Meerbeek, Irena Axmanová, Hans Henrik Bruun, Milan Chytrý, Riccardo Guarino, Gerhard Karrer, Karlien Moeys, Thomas Raus, Manuel J. Steinbauer, Lubomir Tichý, Torbjörn Tyler, Ketevan Batsatsashvili, Claudia Bita-Nicolae, Yakiv Didukh, Martin Diekmann, Thorsten Englisch, Eduardo Fernández-Pascual, Dieter Frank, Ulrich Graf, Michal Hájek, Sven D. Jelaska, Borja Jiménez-Alfaro, Philippe Julve, George Nakhutsrishvili, Wim A. Ozinga, Eszter-Karolina Ruprecht, Urban Šilc, Jean-Paul Theurillat, François Gillet

Abstract: Aims: To develop a consistent ecological indicator value system for Europe for five of the main plant niche dimensions: soil moisture (M), soil nitrogen (N), soil reaction (R), light (L) and temperature (T). Study area: Europe (and closely adjacent regions). Methods: We identified 31 indicator value systems for vascular plants in Europe that contained assessments on at least one of the five aforementioned niche dimensions. We rescaled the indicator values of each dimension to a continuous scale, in which 0 represents the minimum and 10 the maximum value present in Europe. Taxon names were harmonised to the Euro+Med Plantbase. For each of the five dimensions, we calculated European values for niche position and niche width by combining the values from the individual EIV systems. Using T values as an example, we externally validated our European indicator values against the median of bioclimatic conditions for global occurrence data of the taxa. Results: In total, we derived European indicator values of niche position and niche width for 14,835 taxa (14,714 for M, 13,748 for N, 14,254 for R, 14,054 for L, 14,496 for T). Relating the obtained values for temperature niche position to the bioclimatic data of species yielded a higher correlation than any of the original EIV systems (r = 0.859). The database: The newly developed Ecological Indicator Values for Europe (EIVE) 1.0, together with all source systems, is available in a flexible, harmonised open access database. Conclusions: EIVE is the most comprehensive ecological indicator value system for European vascular plants to date. The uniform interval scales for niche position and niche width provide new possibilities for ecological and macroecological analyses of vegetation patterns. The developed workflow and documentation will facilitate the future release of updated and expanded versions of EIVE, which may for example include the addition of further taxonomic groups, additional niche dimensions, external validation or regionalisation. Abbreviations: EIV = Ecological indicator value; EIVE = Ecological Indicator Values for Europe; EVA = European Vegetation Archive; GBIF = Global Biodiversity Information Facility; i = index for taxa; j = index for EIV systems; L = ecological indicator for light; M = ecological indicator for moisture; N = ecological indicator for nitrogen availability; R = ecological indicator for reaction; T = ecological indicator for temperature.

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VCS Methods Fri, 13 Jan 2023 10:21:16 +0200
Vegetation Classification and Survey in the third year https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/100394/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 4: 1-6

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.100394

Authors: Jürgen Dengler, Idoia Biurrun, Florian Jansen, Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: We report on the completed third volume of Vegetation Classification and Survey (VCS). VCS has been included in the Scopus bibliometric database and will receive its first CiteSore in mid-2023. We announce the 2022 Editors’ Award for a paper selected from the four papers nominated for Editors’ Choice during 2022. We selected Liu et al. (2022; Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 121–144) for the Editors’ Award. This author team developed a comprehensive hierarchical classification system for the steppe vegetation over China. We present five Special Collections (two concluded and three ongoing) which form a backbone for VCS. Apart from Research Papers, Long and Short Database Reports were the prevailing article category in 2022. By contrast, there were no VCS Methods paper in 2022, and thus we encourage submissions particularly in this category. Finally, we welcome new members to the Editorial Board and open a call for free applications for our Editorial Review Board or as a Linguistic Editor. Abbreviations: APC = article processing charge; IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science; VCS = Vegetation Classification and Survey.

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Editorial Fri, 13 Jan 2023 07:59:28 +0200
VegAndes: the vegetation database for the Latin American highlands https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/95750/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 287-296

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.95750

Authors: Gwendolyn Peyre, Daniel Montesinos, Daniela Giraldo, Antonio Galán de Mera, Barbara Ruthsatz, Federico Luebert, Marcela Ontivero, Nicolas García, Miguel Álvarez, Rosa Isela Meneses, Pablo Lozano, Daniela León, Maximilian Weigend, Fabien Anthelme, Milagro Palma, Carolina Rodriguez

Abstract: In the era of Big Data, Latin American countries and biomes remain underrepresented. To remediate this issue, promoting repositories for biodiversity data focused on Latin America is a main priority. VegAndes -Dpt the vegetation database for the Latin American highlands (GIVD: SA-00-005), is a novel dataset for georeferenced and standardized information on vascular pants in the region. The database compiles 5,340 vegetation plots sampled above the montane treeline and below the permanent snowline in 11 Latin American countries and spanning over seven decades. VegAndes currently encompasses 5,804 taxon names, corresponding to 3,858 accepted names, as well as 136 syntaxon names. The database is nested within a scientific consortium of Latin American experts on highland vegetation and piloted from the University of the Andes (Colombia). Because the VegAndes data can support multi-scale studies in botany, ecology and biogeography, the database makes an essential contribution to biodiversity research and management perspectives in Latin America. Taxonomic reference: TROPICOS (preferential source, www.tropicos.org/), World Flora Online (secondary source, www.worldfloraonline.org/).

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Long Database Report Fri, 30 Dec 2022 17:51:08 +0200
Distribution of graminoids in open habitats in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/95767/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 273-286

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.95767

Authors: Sebastian Świerszcz, Grzegorz Swacha, Małgorzata W. Raduła, Sylwia Nowak

Abstract: Aims: Landscapes of Middle Asia are exposed to human influence due to long-lasting pastoral tradition, and now are largely dominated by non-forest vegetation. Graminoids perform key ecosystem functions, and constitute an important feed source for livestock. We studied the distribution patterns of graminoids cover under climatic and grazing pressure gradients in different open vegetation types. Study area: Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan. Methods: 1,525 vegetation plots representing five open vegetation types (mires, salt marshes, tall-forb communities, pseudosteppes and steppes) were extracted from the Vegetation of Middle Asia Database. We assessed the relative cover of graminoid species in each vegetation type. The importance of mean annual temperature, sum of annual precipitation, aridity and livestock density as drivers of relative cover of graminoids contribution patterns in the five vegetation types were explored with use of polynomial functions and commonality analysis. Results: Open ecosystems of Middle Asia are characterized by different graminoid contributions. The highest relative cover of graminoids was found for steppes, pseudosteppes and mires. Comparison of model fits for relationship between the graminoids cover, climatic parameters and livestock pressure indicated advantage of polynomial models. The best-fitting models for pseudosteppes were for mean annual temperature, Aridity Index and livestock density, for steppes mean annual temperature and Aridity Index, and for salt marshes mean annual temperature. For mires and tall-forb communities, the models showed a poor fit or no effect of the variables studied. Conclusions: Our study shows that climate and livestock pressure have an impact on the contribution of graminoids in open vegetation types, but a general pattern is difficult to describe. Ongoing climate change may influence the share of graminoids in salt marshes, steppes and pseudosteppes. Grazing (with a common effect of climatic factors) is the most important factor influencing graminoids contribution on pseudosteppes, confirming the secondary origin of this vegetation type. Taxonomic reference: The nomenclature of the vascular plants follows Plants of the World Online (POWO 2022) and problematic taxonomic issues were based on The World Flora Online (WFO 2022). Nomenclature of Stipa spp. follows Nobis et al. (2020).

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Research Paper Tue, 20 Dec 2022 18:34:02 +0200
Climatic definitions of the world’s terrestrial biomes https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/86102/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 231-271

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.86102

Authors: Javier Loidi, Gonzalo Navarro-Sánchez, Denys Vynokurov

Abstract: Question: Is it feasible to establish a classification of large biotic units of the world related to climatic types? Study area: The world. Methods: A total of 616 localities have been selected, their climatic parameters calculated and subjected to a PCA. The climatic characterization of biomes and subbiomes has been completed after data analysis. Results: A hierarchical classification is proposed for the biotic units within four main domains: Cryocratic, Mesocratic, Xerocratic and Thermocratic, divided into 7 ecozones, 9 biomes and 20 subbiomes linked to climatically defined territories. Most of the units are intercontinental. The mountains represent an abbreviated version of the latitudinal zonation and the altitudinal belts are related to the corresponding units of the lowlands. For the bioclimatic units, a parallel classification is proposed to fit with that of the biotic units: 4 Macrobioclimates and 10 bioclimates. Furthermore, 7 ombrotypes and 7 thermotypes are recognized to frame the climatic variation within each climatic territory due to terrain ruggedness, particularly in relation to large or medium sized mountains. Conclusions: The southern hemisphere is substantially more oceanic than the northern hemisphere. This is due to the distribution of the land masses and the modifying effect they have on the flow of air and marine currents. As a result, there is one biome and one subbiome exclusively found in the northern hemisphere (6. Biome of the steppe, and 5.b Continental scrub and woodlands subbiome) and two others which are almost confined to it (2. Biome of the boreal forest, and 3. Biome of the temperate deciduous forests). The 7. Biome of the deserts and 5. Biome of the temperate aridiestival evergreen forests and shrublands occur on the western side of the continents and expand in their interior favoured by rain shadow and continentality effects. Taxonomic reference: The Plant List (2013). Abbreviations: ITCZ = Inter Tropical Convergence Zone; NH = Northern Hemisphere; PCA = Principal Component Analysis; SH = Southern Hemisphere.

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Review and Synthesis Mon, 19 Dec 2022 09:59:40 +0200
ArgVeg – Database of Central Argentina https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/94256/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 223-230

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.94256

Authors: Melisa A. Giorgis, Marcelo R. Cabido, Ana M. Cingolani, María V. Palchetti, Sebastián R. Zeballos, Juan José Cantero, Alicia T. R. Acosta

Abstract: The ArgVeg is a repository of vegetation-plots data registered in the Global Index of Vegetation Databases (GIVD ID: SA-AR-002). This report presents its main characteristics, potential uses, and future perspectives. In September 2022, the database contained 1092 vegetation-plot records, including 1184 valid native and non-native vascular plants. The database covers the main vegetation types of nine vegetation units of the Chaco, Espinal and Pampean phytogeographic provinces in central Argentina. Those types include native forests, shrublands, grasslands, halophytic vegetation and non-native woody communities present in either lowlands or mountain areas. This database represents a significant improvement in the availability of floristic information from subtropical and warm temperate areas in South America, which still represents a major knowledge gap worldwide. ArgVeg reflects the outstanding plant diversity of central Argentina and it is managed by the Plant Ecology and Phytogeography Group at the Multidisciplinary Institute of Plant Biology (Córdoba, Argentina). Not only the high biodiversity but also the complex landscape heterogeneity are the most important characteristics of the vegetation in this region. We hope to increase the number of plots in the near future and to strengthen regional and global networks to enhance the conservation and management of these endangered ecosystems.

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Long Database Report Wed, 7 Dec 2022 10:59:22 +0200
VESTA – resurvey of natural, non-forest vegetation (Central Europe) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/96011/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 221-222

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.96011

Authors: Krzysztof Świerkosz, Kamila Reczyńska

Abstract: “VESTA - resurvey of natural, non-forest vegetation (Central Europe)” is a thematic, resurvey database focused on documentation of changes in natural, non-forest communities. Currently, the database includes 549 relevés (231 replots for 84 sites) corresponding to the classes Asplenietea trichomanis (incl. Polypodietea), Koelerio-Corynephoretea (rocky grasslands), Loiseleurio-Vaccinietea and Betulo carpaticae-Alnetea viridis. The project is continuous in character. It is based on the phytosociological relevés from own field studies which have been carried out in the Sudetes Mts. and their foothills since 1989. The subject of research have been all types of rocky communities (chasmophytic, grasslands, thickets), mountain and submountain tall-herb communities, subalpine thickets and heathlands. Relevés are collected according to the standard Braun-Blanquet method (species coverage scale: r, +, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) and on rectangular or square-shaped surfaces with possible adjustment to the shape of the rocky outcrops. Initially (until 2008), the location of plots was marked on maps and field sketches. However, the fact that all relevés were collected by the owners of the database made it easier to revisit all plots and assigned a location compatible with GPS with SiRFstar III chipset. The accuracy of position measurements varies between 2 and 15 meters (on average 10 meters). Aspect is determined using electronic compass linked to GPS. Altitude is obtained from Google Earth and corrected with landmarks from topographical maps if necessary. The shading of the plots has been visually assessed so far. The bedrock type is derived from a Detailed Geological Map of the Sudetes (http://sudety.pgi.gov.pl/). Subsequent resurveys of the plots are conducted during field visits planned specifically for this purpose or during other research carried out in the same area.

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Short Database Report Mon, 14 Nov 2022 14:32:08 +0200
A vegetation classification and description of Telperion Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga, South Africa https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/85209/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 199-219

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.85209

Authors: Leslie R. Brown, Itumeleng P. Magagula, Alan S. Barrett

Abstract: Aims: This study identified, classified and mapped the different plant communities found on the Telperion Nature Reserve. Study area: Telperion Nature Reserve, Mpumulanga, South Africa. Methods: Using a 1:10,000 aerial photograph, Telperion was delineated into homogenous physiognomic-physiographic units. 294 sample plots (100 m2) were placed in a randomly stratified manner within identified homogenous units. Plant species present in sample plots were recorded and allocated a modified Braun-Blanquet cover abundance scale value. Sample plot data were captured into TURBOVEG and exported for editing, classification and processing in JUICE. A modified TWINSPAN classification was applied to derive a first approximation of the plant communities in a synoptic table that was refined using Braun-Blanquet procedures. Species were manually arranged into groups. Diagnostic, constant and dominant species were statistically determined from the synoptic table. Threshold values for fidelity, frequency and canopy cover were set and a final phytosociological table was produced for describing the plant species composition for the different plant communities. Results: 22 plant communities were identified for Telperion. Five were major communities, 14 were sub-communities and 13 were variants. The five major plant communities were Cyathea dregei–Ilex mitis ravine woodland, Paspalum urvillei–Phragmites australis valley bottom wetland, Diospyros lycioides–Combretum erythrophyllum riparian woodland, Eragrostis curvula–Seriphium plumosum midslope plateau grassland, and Combretum molle–Englerophytum magalismontanum rocky ridge woodland. The plant communities were also described and mapped. Conclusions: The classification, description and mapping of Telperion’s vegetation provides a basis for management decision making about wildlife stocking rates, fire planning, and vegetation management. Findings indicate that Bankenveld vegetation is heterogeneous with a variety of habitats including woodland and grassland components. Telperion has a variety of plant communities and a high plant species diversity, making it a reservoir for plant species and an important conservation area. Taxonomic reference: SA-Plant Checklist-2019–2020, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2020, Botanical Database of Southern Africa (BODATSA) (http://posa.sanbi.org/) [accessed January 2022]. Abbreviations: BB = Braun-Blanquet; m a.s.l. = metres above sea level; TWINSPAN = Two-way indicator species analysis.

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Research Paper Thu, 3 Nov 2022 08:52:46 +0200
BOVEDA, the Bolivian Vegetation Ecology Database: first stage, the Chacoan forests https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/84418/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 191-197

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.84418

Authors: Jaime Oliveira, José Antonio Molina, Gonzalo Navarro

Abstract: Bolivia is a country exceptionally rich in biodiversity and home to about 20,000 vascular plant species and 15 plant formations. Therefore, it is particularly important to document the biodiversity of this territory. The aim of the Bolivian Vegetation Ecology Database (BOVEDA; GIVD ID SA-BO-005) is to record floristic and ecological data of Bolivian vegetation. In the first stage, the database hosts 320 relevés from one of the most unique biogeographical units in the country, the Chaco. In total, 633 species belonging to 114 families have been recorded. Data on vegetation structure, soil, flooding regime and geomorphology have also been stored. The following nine vegetation structural types were identified: (1) deciduous forests of alluvial plains on well to moderately well drained soils; (2) deciduous to semideciduous Chaco forests transitional to the Andes; (3) deciduous and sclerophyllous Cerrado thorn-woodlands and shrublands transitional to the Chaco (Abayoy); (4) xeromorphic thorn shrubland and thickets on vertic, poorly drained soils; (5) woodlands and savannas on sand dunes and aeolian surfaces; (6) freshwater swamp forests; (7) saltwater swamp forests; (8) phreatophytic forests; (9) deciduous to semideciduous Chaco forests transitional to the Chiquitania. Further steps will be to incorporate new types of vegetation already recorded in the field such as Altiplano shrublands, Andean wetlands, Andean Polylepis forests, and vegetation of the dry inter-Andean valleys. Taxonomic reference: Jørgensen et al. (2015). Abbreviations: BOVEDA = Bolivian Vegetation Ecology Database; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases.

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Long Database Report Mon, 24 Oct 2022 10:51:24 +0300
Proposal (30) to conserve the name Polysticho setiferi-Fraxinetum excelsioris (Tüxen et Oberdorfer 1958) Rivas-Martínez ex Díaz et Fernández Prieto 1994 with a conserved type https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/86799/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 187-189

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.86799

Authors: Javier Loidi, Javier Amigo, Álvaro Bueno, Mercedes Herrera, Manuel A. Rodríguez-Guitián

Abstract: Abstract: The association Polysticho setiferi-Fraxinetum excelsioris was described as a meso-eutrophic thermophilic forest dominated by common oak (Quercus robur) with a distribution that includes the Oviedo district in Asturias and the Basque-Cantabrian area (N Spain and SW France). However, when a lectotype was chosen to comply with Article 19 of the ICPN, a relevé dominated by beech was selected, which leads to interpretive problems. Given that the most widespread interpretation of this association in the phytosociological literature is the one established by its original authors (i.e., a meso-eutrophic oak-ash forest), we consider that this name should be retained, but its type should be changed to a conserved neotypus according to Article 53 of the 4th edition of the ICPN. (30) Polysticho setiferi-Fraxinetum excelsioris (Tüxen et Oberdorfer 1958) Rivas-Martínez ex Díaz et Fernández Prieto 1994 Typus: see below (typus cons. propos.) Taxonomic reference: Castroviejo et al. (1986–2021). Syntaxonomic reference: Rivas-Martínez (2011). Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Nomenclatural Proposal Thu, 25 Aug 2022 11:45:13 +0300
AMS-VegBank: a new database of vegetation plots for the Italian territory https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/85083/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 177-185

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.85083

Authors: Nicola Alessi, Vanessa Bruzzaniti, Fabrizio Buldrini, Emma Centomo, Marco Cervellini, Mirko Enea, Sara Landi, Chiara Lelli, Irene Montanari, Juri Nascimbene, Giovanna Pezzi, Gianmarco Virzí, Piero Zannini, Alessandro Chiarucci

Abstract: The importance of collection, storage and exchange of georeferenced vegetation plot-based data has significantly grown in the recent decades, because of the new potentialities offered by ecoinformatics. In this article we introduce the Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna vegetation database (AMS-VegBank; GIVD code EU-IT-021) compiling 17,505 georeferenced vegetation-plot observations within a time span of 90 years. This database includes 337,799 occurrence data of vascular plant species, belonging to many different habitat types. The historical relevance of the presented database is highlighted by the presence of some of the most ancient vegetation-plot observations in Europe (years 1930–1938). The geographic coverage of the database is mostly for Italian territory but it includes also data from other countries. The thematic focuses represented in the database are various, such as small Mediterranean islands, the Dolomite Mountains and the Italian National Parks. The large amount of historical plots available for the country not previously included in existing databases, combined with the constant action to improve the georeferencing of existing data and the addition of new data, highlight the uniqueness of this database. AMS-VegBank represents thus an important tool for studying plant biodiversity within the context of continental and global vegetation plot databases. Taxonomic reference: All plant names reported in this article follow the nomenclature by Pignatti et al. (2017–2019). Abbreviations: EVA = European Vegetation Archive; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases.

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Long Database Report Tue, 23 Aug 2022 10:48:31 +0300
Database of anthropogenic vegetation of Urals and adjacent territories https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/82824/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 175-176

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.82824

Authors: Yaroslav Golovanov, Larisa Abramova

Abstract: The Database of anthropogenic vegetation of Urals and adjacent territories (GIVD ID 00-RU-008) includes 4,327 vegetation plots of anthropogenic vegetation from 3 regions of the Russian Federation (the Republic of Bashkortostan, Orenburg, Chelyabinsk regions) and 1 region of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Aktobe region). All relevés were made between 1984 and 2021 AD. 1865 vegetation plots are from different literature sources (28 sources), 2462 are unpublished relevés from the authors. 94% of the relevés are geo-referenced. The ecological conditions were assessed by the use of average Landolt indicator values. The taxonomy of vascular species is given according to Cherepanov (1995). The vegetation plots in the database belong to nine vegetation classes. 7 anthropogenic (Sisymbrietea, Digitario sanguinalis-Eragrostietea minoris, Polygono-Poetea annuae, Artemisietea vulgaris, Epilobietea angustifolii, Bidentetea, Robinietea) and 2 semi-natural phytosociological classes: Molinio-Arrhenatheretea (anthropogenically transformed meadows, lawns, etc. of the union Cynosurion cristati Tx. 1947.) and Festuco-Brometea (anthropogenically transformed steppe communities found within human settlements). Vegetation plots include also invasive species (Acer negundo, Ambrosia trifida, Echinocystis lobata, Impatiens glandulifera, Solidago canadensis, Solidago gigantea, Heracleum sosnowskyi, Hordeum jubatum, Xanthium albinum etc.).

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Short Database Report Thu, 11 Aug 2022 10:48:28 +0300
A plot-based analysis of the vegetation of the Northern Territory, Australia: a first assessment within the International Vegetation Classification framework https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/83045/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 161-174

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.83045

Authors: John T. Hunter, Donna Lewis, Eda Addicott, Sarah Luxton, Ian Cowie, Ben Sparrow, Emrys Leitch

Abstract: Aims: To develop an interim classification of the vegetation of the Northern Territory at the International Vegetation Classification (IVC) division (level 4) and macrogroup (level 5) levels. These types are produced to assist in the development of an integrated nationwide plot and floristically based classification of Australia allowing integration within a global perspective. Study Area: The Northern Territory of Australia covers an area of 1.42 million square kilometres, almost 20% of Australia’s land mass. It comprises three distinct climatic zones including tropical, subtropical and arid vegetation types. Methods: We used collated vegetation data held by two organisations: the Northern Territory Government, Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security and the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (a total of 45,710 plots used). We applied semi-supervised quantitative classification methods to define vegetation types at the IVC division and macrogroup levels. Analyses used kR-CLUSTER methods on presence/absence data. Macrogroups were characterised by taxa with the highest frequency of occurrence across plots. Additional analyses were conducted (cluster) to elucidate interrelationships between macrogroups and to assist in the assessment of division level typology. Results: We propose 21 macrogroups and place these within higher thematic levels of the IVC. Conclusions: We found that the IVC hierarchy and associated standard procedures and protocols provide a useful classification tool for Australian ecosystems. The divisions and macrogroups provide a valid framework for subsequent analysis of Northern Territory vegetation types at the detailed levels of the IVC. A consistent typology for the Northern Territory (and hopefully in future, for all of Australia) has numerous benefits, in that they can be used for various applications using a well-structured, systematic and authoritative description and classification that is placed in a continental and global context, readily enabling the one system to be used in studies from the local to global level. Taxonomic reference: Northern Territory Herbarium (2022). Abbreviations: DVT = Definitive Vegetation Type; IVC = International Vegetation Classification; nMDS = non-metric multidimensional scaling; NT = Northern Territory; NTVSD = Northern Territory Vegetation Site Database; NVIS = National Vegetation Information System; WA = Western Australia.

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Research Paper Fri, 22 Jul 2022 18:00:56 +0300
Classification of grasslands and other open vegetation types in the Palaearctic – Introduction to the Special Collection https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/87068/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 149-159

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.87068

Authors: Arkadiusz Nowak, Idoia Biurrun, Monika Janišová, Jürgen Dengler

Abstract: With this editorial, we introduce the Special Collection “Classification of grasslands and other open vegetation types in the Palaearctic”. In searching the Web of Science for classification papers on Palaearctic grasslands, we found 207 studies from 1972–2021, including 106 typical classification works. These studies originated mainly from Europe, with only few from Asia and only one from Northern Africa. While Europe in the 20th century already had a strong tradition in regional classification studies, the launch of a common plot database (European Vegetation Archive, EVA) and a continental syntaxonomic reference list (EuroVegChecklist) have spurred the developments there in recent years. We then introduce the seven articles of the Special Collection. Four of them present regional studies of certain vegetation types, namely spring vegetation (Montio-Cardaminetea) in Grisons, Switzerland, dry grasslands (Festuco-Brometea) of the inneralpine valleys of Austria, montane to subalpine tall-herb vegetation (Mulgedio-Aconitetea) in the Sudetes Mts., Poland, and steppe depressions (Festuco-Brometea and Molinio-Arrhentatheretea) in Southern Ukraine. A new synthesis of the grassland vegetation of Navarre in Spain (all classes, focus on Festuco-Brometea), started with an unsupervised classification and translated it into a hierarchical expert system, while another study provided the first synthesis of the tall-herb vegetation (mainly Ulopteretea prangae) of Tajikistan. Finally, a study based on the GrassPlot database compared fine-grain beta-diversities across open vegetation types of the Palaearctic. Abbreviations: EDGG = Eurasian Dry Grassland Group, EVA = European Vegetation Archive, IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science, WoS = Web of Science.

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Editorial Fri, 22 Jul 2022 18:00:20 +0300
Proposal (29) to conserve the name Omphalodo nitidae-Coryletum avellanae Amigo, G. Azcárate et Romero 1994 with a conserved type https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/76387/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 145-148

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.76387

Authors: Manuel A. Rodríguez-Guitián, Javier Amigo Vazquez

Abstract: The association Omphalodo nitidae-Coryletum avellanae was defined by assembling relevés on (mainly) Corylus avellana woods on nutrient-rich substrates in the westernmost part of the Cantabrian Range (NW Spain). However, a mesophytic oak forest dominated by Quercus robur (with noteworthy amount of Corylus avellana in the undercanopy) was selected as its holotype. The most common interpretation of this association in the subsequent literature has been as seral Corylus avellana forests. For this reason, we propose the application of article 53 of the ICPN (4th ed.), which allows the name to be maintained with a new nomenclatural type based on the more recent interpretation of this syntaxon. (29) Omphalodo nitidae-Coryletum avellanae Amigo, G. Azcárate et Romero 1994, typus cons. propos. Typus: Amigo et al. (1994), table 2: rel. 4 (typus cons. propos.) Taxonomic reference: Castroviejo et al. (1986–2020). Syntaxonomic reference: Rivas-Martínez (2011). Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Nomenclatural Proposal Fri, 15 Jul 2022 10:42:50 +0300
Vegetation classification of Stipa steppes in China, with reference to the International Vegetation Classification https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/72875/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 121-144

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.72875

Authors: Changcheng Liu, Xianguo Qiao, Ke Guo, Liqing Zhao, Qingmin Pan

Abstract: Aims: The vegetation classification system of China (China-VCS) is not completed. Stipa steppes are the most important steppes in China. Here we made optimal use of available plot data to classify Stipa steppes into associations in a way that is consistent with International Vegetation Classification. Study Area: the Songnen Plain, Inner Mongolian Plateau, Loess Plateau, Tibetan Plateau, and the northwest mountain areas of China. Methods: We used 1337 plots to partition the Stipa steppes of China into clusters using hierarchical clustering. Supervised noise clustering was used to improve the classifications at the group, alliance, and association levels. Non-metric multidimensional scaling ordination was used to visualize the homogeneity of plots within each cluster, and we overlaid site and climatic vectors. Diagnostic species were identified for each cluster using Indicator Species Analysis. Results: We defined five biogeographic groups, 26 alliances, 91 associations, and 12 communities of Stipa steppes of China. The Stipa-dominated alliances in the framework of the current China-VCS were verified, but the four vegetation subformations of Tussock Steppe were not completely supported by this study. Conclusions: This is the first systematical and comprehensive classification for Stipa steppes in China based on plot data. Our classification used a set of dominant species and diagnostic species to define biogeogrpahic groups, alliances and associations, ensuring compatibility with the International Vegetation Classification. Taxonomic reference: Flora Reipublicae Popularis Sinicae, Flora of China Abbreviations: AMT = Annual Mean Temperature; AP = Annual Precipitation; China-VCS = vegetation classification system of China; IVC = international vegetation classification; MTCQ = Mean Temperature of Coldest Quarter; MTWQ = Mean Temperature of Warmest Quarter; NC = noise clustering; NMDS = non-metric multidimensional scaling; PDQ = Precipitation of Driest Quarter; PS = Precipitation Seasonality; PWQ = Precipitation of Wettest Quarter; TS = Temperature Seasonality

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Research Paper Wed, 29 Jun 2022 12:24:17 +0300
SIMETHIS-Flore-CBNMed - Database of Southeastern France vegetation https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/83889/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 119-120

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.83889

Authors: Olivier Argagnon, Guilhem De Barros, Virgile Noble

Abstract: The SIMETHIS-Flore-CBNMed database (GIVD EU-FR-006) is a regional database managed by the Conservatoire Botanique National Méditerranéen dealing with occurrence data of the vascular flora of Southeastern France. It covers the following departments: Pyrénées-Orientales, Aude, Hérault, Gard, Lozère, Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes. It includes around 19,300 phytosociological relevés of various vegetation types from the mediterranean coastal area to the alpine vegetation belt. Vegetation plots are unpublished relevés as well as digitized data from bibliographic sources (around 310 references). Almost all relevés are geolocalized. The oldest ones date from 1915 and the most recent from 2021 and the integration of new data is done continuously. The taxonomical scheme follows the French national taxonomic repository TAXREF (currently v.15). The database is part of the European Vegetation Archive under semi-restricted regime and will be updated every year. Some of the bibliographic data featured in SIMETHIS-Flore-CBNMed may also be present in SOPHY database (EU-FR-003). All the bibliographic data of SIMETHIS-Flore-CBNMed undergo a curation process regarding georeferencing, taxonomic nomenclature updates and syntaxonomic interpretation. Abbreviations: CBNMed: Conservatoire Botanique National Méditerranéen.

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Short Database Report Fri, 13 May 2022 18:00:54 +0300
Vegetation classification for northwestern Arctic Alaska using an EcoVeg approach: tussock tundra and low and tall willow groups and alliances https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/65469/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 87-117

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.65469

Authors: Aaron F. Wells, Christopher S. Swingley, Susan L. Ives, Robert W. McNown, Dorte Dissing

Abstract: Aims: The USNVC is the standard for vegetation classification in the US and is part of the broader IVC. Recent work on the USNVC in Alaska established macrogroups, groups and alliances. Here we incorporate tussock tundra and low and tall willow (Salix) groups and alliances for northwestern Arctic Alaska into the IVC and USNVC classification. Study Area: The study area encompasses the Seward Peninsula, the western Brooks Range, and the northwestern foothills and Arctic coastal plain of Alaska. Methods: We used data from 2,087 relevé plots collected between 1992 and 2019 from northwestern Arctic Alaska to prepare a draft association classification using cluster analysis, ordination, and sorted tables. The draft classification was subject to peer review and subsequently refined. We fit the tussock tundra and low and tall willow associations into the USNVC using NMDS and GAMs to evaluate the patterns of environmental gradients against the ordination axis scores. Results: We identified eight tussock tundra and 37 low and tall willow associations. The associations fit in two classes, two subclasses, two formations, two divisions, three macrogroups, four groups, and 13 alliances. A description of the alliances, and a field guide to the northwestern Arctic Alaska tussock tundra and low and tall willow associations, including a dichotomous key and descriptions, is provided. Conclusions: Many of the tussock tundra and low and tall willow associations fit seamlessly within the USNVC, while some alliances had yet to be defined, and we have proposed new alliances here. In still other cases, we proposed a new group and recommend broadening the concept of an existing group using a data-driven approach. Since not all available data from Arctic Alaska were used in this study, we suggest continuing with a more comprehensive analysis to fulfill the gap at the alliance and association levels for Arctic Alaska. Taxonomic reference: USDA NRCS (2021) for vascular plants, bryophytes, and lichens. Syntaxonomic reference: USNVC (2019). Abbreviations: AVA-AK = Alaska Arctic Vegetation Archive; AVPD = Alaska Vegetation Plots Database; BCP = Beaufort Coastal Plain; CAVM = Circumpolar Arctic Vegetation Map; CBVM = Circumboreal vegetation map; EC = Electrical conductivity; ELD = ELS Legacy Database; ELS = Ecological Land Survey; GAM = Generalized additive model; IVC = International vegetation classification; LPI = line-point intercept; NMDS = Non-metric multidimensional scaling; PAM = Partitioning Around Medoids; PESC = Proportionate ericaceous shrub cover; SM = Supplementary material; US = United States of America; USNVC = U.S. National Vegetation Classification.

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Research Paper Tue, 12 Apr 2022 14:00:28 +0300
Diversity of Mulgedio-Aconitetea communities in the Sudetes Mts. (SW Poland) in the Central European context https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/70200/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 67-86

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.70200

Authors: Krzysztof Świerkosz, Kamila Reczyńska

Abstract: Aims: To describe the compositional and ecological diversity of Mulgedio-Aconitetea communities in the Sudetes Mts. and their foothills. Study area: The Sudetes Mts. (Southwestern Poland). Methods: A total of 399 vegetation relevés from own field studies and the literature were sorted into groups that match the higher syntaxa of the EuroVegChecklist and associations described in the literature. Diagnostic species of the so delimited associations were determined with the phi-coefficient of association, and maps of the associations produced. Direct ordination methods were applied to identify the main environmental gradients shaping the plant communities. Results: We distinguished nine associations, belonging to four alliances: submontane and colline communities (Petasition officinalis: Geranio phaei-Urticetum dioicae, Petasitetum hybridi, Chaerophyllo hirsuti-Petasitetum albi, Prenanthetum purpureae), upper montane nitrophilous communities (Rumicion alpini: Rumicetum alpini); subalpine communities with a dominance of graminoids and ferns (Calamagrostion villosae: Poo chaixii-Deschampsietum cespitosae, Crepido conyzifoliae-Calamagrostietum villosae, Athyrietum filicis-feminae) and subalpine tall-herb communities (Adenostylion alliariae: Cicerbitetum alpinae). Altitude, light availability, and bedrock type, which determines nutrient availability and soil reaction, played an important role in differentiating the studied communities. Conclusions: For convenience, we placed the four alliances in four separate orders as in the EuroVegChecklist. The fact that our ordination diagram separated only two main groups suggests the need of further research in this matter. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2006-) for vascular plants. Syntaxonomic reference: Higher syntaxa follow Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: db-RDA = distance-based redundancy analysis; EIV = Ellenberg indicator value; pANOVA = permutational analysis of variance; PCoA = principal coordinates analysis.

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Research Paper Wed, 9 Mar 2022 09:56:23 +0200
Chilean vegetation in the context of the Braun-Blanquet approach and a comparison with EcoVeg formations https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/72194/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 45-52

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.72194

Authors: Miguel Alvarez, Federico Luebert

Abstract: Aims: The Braun-Blanquet approach has been widely implemented to generate classification schemes at the country level and Chile is not an exception. In spite of numerous studies, a revised system for the whole country is still missing and most of the current surveys are restricted to a small set of vegetation groups or specific study sites. To fill this gap, we established a vegetation-plot database and updated the classification into a single syntaxonomic scheme. We also performed a comparison of this scheme with the formation system following the EcoVeg approach. Study area: Continental Chile. Methods: We compiled a database of 1,582 plot observations, which are classified into 29 classes, 43 orders, 65 alliances, and 162 associations according to the Braun-Blanquet approach. Results: These observations were assigned to 7 formation classes, 10 subclasses and 19 formations in the EcoVeg approach. There are several mismatches between phytosociological classes and EcoVeg formations, which indicates some inconsistencies in the current stage of syntaxonomy in Chile. Besides a big contrast on bioclimatic conditions within the country’s territory, the occurrence of intrazonal vegetation may explain the high diversity of phytosociological associations recorded in this database. Conclusions: This work may constitute the basis for the implementation of the EcoVeg classification at the levels of alliance and association and can be extended for other countries in the South American sub-continent.

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Research Paper Mon, 7 Mar 2022 09:56:49 +0200
Plant diversity and structure in desert communities of the Andean piedmont in Ica, Peru https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/68006/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 53-66

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.68006

Authors: Angie Montenegro-Hoyos, Nanette Vega, Reynaldo Linares-Palomino

Abstract: Aims: There is extensive documentation of the floristic composition and plant diversity patterns in the South American coastal deserts and the adjoining arid Puna. Surprisingly, the vegetation along the transition zone from these deserts in the coastal lowlands to the Puna highlands has been little studied. The main goal of this study was to characterize and compare the structure of plant communities in two localities in the Ica department, with the aim of contributing to the floristic knowledge of the desertic western Andean slopes along the lowlands to Andean transition zone. Study area: Huancacasa and La Bolivar localities located at approximately 740 and 3,000 m a.s.l. in the Ica department, Peru. Methods: We sampled 10 plots of 100 m × 60 m located between 740–1,600 m a.s.l. in La Bolivar and 15 modified Whittaker plots (MWPs) of 20 m × 5 m located between 2,800–3,000 m a.s.l. in Huancacasa and recorded species richness and abundance. We estimated alpha diversity, performed Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) and one-way Similarity (ANOSIM) analyses and plotted rank-abundance curves. Results: We recorded 215 species and morphospecies with coastal and Andean distribution, including 43 species (21.3%) that are either considered endemic to Peru or have been considered under some form of threat by Peruvian or international standards. Both plant communities differed in terms of composition, species richness, abundance, and dominant growth form, with higher values in the communities located at higher elevations. We added 83 species as new records for the Ica department. Conclusions: Our research reinforced the need to increase exploration and documentation of the vegetation within the lowland to highland transition zone along the dry western slopes of the Andes. Our results from such a transition in Ica department in southern Peru, show that much of its plant diversity seems to be, as yet, largely unknown. Taxonomic reference: The Plant List (2013). Abbreviations: ANOSIM = one-way Analysis of Similarities; BMAP = Biodiversity Monitoring and Assessment Program; IUCN = International Union for Conservation of Nature; NMDS = Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling; USM = Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (Herbarium).

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Research Paper Mon, 7 Mar 2022 09:56:37 +0200
Integration of vegetation classification with land cover mapping: lessons from regional mapping efforts in the Americas https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/67537/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 29-43

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.67537

Authors: Patrick J. Comer, Jon C. Hak, Daryn Dockter, Jim Smith

Abstract: Aims: Natural resource management and biodiversity conservation rely on inventories of vegetation that span multiple management or political jurisdictions. However, while remote sensing data and analytical tools have enabled production of maps at increasing spatial resolution and reliability, there are limited examples where national or continental-scaled maps are produced to represent vegetation at high thematic detail. We illustrate two examples that have bridged the gap between traditional land cover mapping and modern vegetation classification. Study area: Our two case studies include national (USA) and continental (North and South America) vegetation and land cover mapping. These studies span conditions from subpolar to tropical latitudes of the Americas. Methods: Both case studies used a supervised modeling approach with the International Vegetation Classification (IVC) to produce maps that provide for greater thematic detail. Georeferenced locations for these vegetation types are used by machine learning algorithms to train a predictive model and generate a distribution map. Results: The USA LANDFIRE (Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools Project) case study illustrates how a history of vegetation-based classification and availability of key inputs can come together to generate standard map products covering more than 9.8 million km2 that are unsurpassed anywhere in the world in terms of spatial and thematic resolution. That being said, it also remains clear that mapping at the thematic resolution of the IVC Group and finer resolution require very large and spatially balanced inputs of georeferenced samples. Even with extensive prior data collection efforts, these remain a key limitation. The NatureServe effort for the Americas - encompassing 22% of the global land surface - demonstrates methods and outputs suitable for worldwide application at continental scales. Conclusions: Continued collection of input data used in the case studies could enable mapping at these spatial and thematic resolutions around the globe. Abbreviations: CART = Classification and Regression Tree; CONUS = Conterminous United States; DSWE = Dynamic Surface Water Extent; EPA = United States Environmental Protection Agency; FGDC = Federal Geographic Data Committee; IVC = International Vegetation Classification; LANDFIRE = Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools Project; LFRDB = LANDFIRE Reference Database; LiDAR = Light Detection and Ranging; NDVI = Normalized Difference Vegetation Index; NLCD = National Land Cover Database; USNVC = United States National Vegetation Classification; USA = United States of America; WWF = World Wildlife Fund or Worldwide Fund for Nature.

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Research Paper Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:24:53 +0200
The vegetation of Chile and the EcoVeg approach in the context of the International Vegetation Classification project https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/67893/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 15-28

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.67893

Authors: Federico Luebert, Patricio Pliscoff

Abstract: Aims: Chilean vegetation has previously received considerable attention, and several classifications are currently available. The most recent of these was presented for the first time in 2006 and updated in 2017 by the authors. Although widely utilized by researchers both in Chile and Latin America, this information is only available in Spanish, which hampers its usefulness for a broader scientific audience. Here, we provide an overview of the methods and the resulting classification and propose a correspondence between Chilean classification and the International Vegetation Classification (IVC) following the EcoVeg scheme. Study area: Continental Chile. Methods: Based on the criteria of the EcoVeg approach, we established a linkage of zonal and azonal vegetation units to the macrogroup level and to the formation classes of the IVC. We also generated a map to facilitate crosswalk between the classifications. Results: We recognize 23 macrogroups, 13 divisions and 11 formations of zonal vegetation, including three newly proposed macrogroups, one division and one formation. We further recognize 23 macrogroups, 23 divisions and 17 formations of intrazonal vegetation. Together, they encompass all six formation classes of natural vegetation of the IVC. We highlight those units so far not mentioned for Chile in the IVC. Finally, we provide a map of macrogroups and discuss the limitations and prospects of this approach for the classification of Chilean vegetation. Conclusions: Chilean zonal vegetation was successfully accommodated in the IVC down to the macrogroup level. The process of linking Chilean zonal vegetation and macrogroups led us to a few suggestions that may be used to improve the IVC. Taxonomic reference: Zuloaga et al. (2008). Abbreviations: IVC = International Vegetation Classification

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Research Paper Thu, 3 Feb 2022 19:45:00 +0200
Plant communities, synusiae and the arithmetic of a sustainable classification https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/60951/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 7-13

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.60951

Authors: Riccardo Guarino, Marina Guccione, François Gillet

Abstract: We propose an equation to evaluate the efficiency of a classification as a function of the effort required and the population size of data collectors. The formula postulates a “classification efficiency coefficient”, which relates not only to the complexity of the object to be classified, but also to the data availability and representativeness. When applied to the classification of phytocoenoses, the equation suggests that a classification system based on vascular plants offers the best compromise between sampling effort, resolution power and data availability. We discuss the possibility of basing a vegetation classification on plot records for all macroscopic photoautotrophic organisms co-occurring in the vertical projection of a given ground area, as recently suggested by some authors. We argue that the inclusion of cryptogams in the description of phytocoenoses dominated by vascular plants should rely on a synusial approach, conceived as complementary to the traditional Braun-Blanquet approach. Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al (2016).

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Forum Paper Thu, 3 Feb 2022 18:45:26 +0200
Vegetation Classification and Survey: development and diversification https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/80379/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 3: 1-5

DOI: 10.3897/VCS.80379

Authors: Jürgen Dengler, Idoia Biurrun, Florian Jansen, Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: We report on the completed second volume of Vegetation Classification and Survey (VCS), whose content grew by 41% compared to the first volume. We were able to diversify article types, geographic coverage, authors and editorial team, the latter now consisting of 62 researchers from 29 countries with a female ratio of 31%. Three newly started Special Collections focus on the vegetation of the most diverse continents, which are at the same time least represented in the international literature: Africa, Asia and Latin America. We highlight six outstanding papers of the previous year, among them Dembicz et al. (2021b, Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 293–304), which received the Editors’ Award 2021. In conclusion, we see a good perspective for the journal development and its inclusion in the leading citation databases, but the success strongly depends on authors and readers of VCS. Abbreviations: IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science; VCS = Vegetation Classification and Survey.

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Editorial Wed, 26 Jan 2022 17:21:34 +0200
Report 2 of the Committee for Change and Conservation of Names (CCCN) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/78172/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 305-309

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/78172

Authors: Wolfgang Willner, Andraž Čarni, Federico Fernández-González, Jens Pallas, Jean Paul Theurillat

Abstract: In this Report, three previously published nomenclatural proposals are discussed, and recommendations on acceptance or rejection of these proposals are provided. The proposals concern the following syntaxa: Berberidion Braun-Blanquet 1950, Aceretalia pseudoplatani Moor 1976 and Festucetalia valesiacae Braun-Blanquet et Tüxen ex Braun-Blanquet 1950. Abbreviations: CCCN = Committee for the Change and Conservation of Names; GPN = Working Group for Phytosociological Nomenclature; ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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CCCN Report Thu, 30 Dec 2021 20:36:17 +0200
Fine-grain beta diversity in Palaearctic open vegetation: variability within and between biomes and vegetation types https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/77193/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 293-304

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/77193

Authors: Iwona Dembicz, Jürgen Dengler, François Gillet, Thomas J. Matthews, Manuel J. Steinbauer, Sándor Bartha, Juan Antonio Campos, Pieter De Frenne, Jiri Dolezal, Itziar García-Mijangos, Riccardo Guarino, Behlül Güler, Anna Kuzemko, Alireza Naqinezhad, Jalil Noroozi, Robert K Peet, Massimo Terzi, Idoia Biurrun

Abstract: Aims: To quantify how fine-grain (within-plot) beta diversity differs among biomes and vegetation types. Study area: Palaearctic biogeographic realm. Methods: We extracted 4,654 nested-plot series with at least four different grain sizes between 0.0001 m² and 1,024 m² from the GrassPlot database spanning broad geographic and ecological gradients. Next, we calculated the slope parameter (z-value) of the power-law species–area relationship (SAR) to use as a measure of multiplicative beta diversity. We did this separately for vascular plants, bryophytes and lichens and for the three groups combined (complete vegetation). We then tested whether z-values differed between biomes, ecological-physiognomic vegetation types at coarse and fine levels and phytosociological classes. Results: We found that z-values varied significantly among biomes and vegetation types. The explanatory power of area for species richness was highest for vascular plants, followed by complete vegetation, bryophytes and lichens. Within each species group, the explained variance increased with typological resolution. In vascular plants, adjusted R2 was 0.14 for biomes, but reached 0.50 for phytosociological classes. Among the biomes, mean z-values were particularly high in the Subtropics with winter rain (Mediterranean biome) and the Dry tropics and subtropics. Natural grasslands had higher z-values than secondary grasslands. Alpine and Mediterranean vegetation types had particularly high z-values whereas managed grasslands with benign soil and climate conditions and saline communities were characterised by particularly low z-values. Conclusions: In this study relating fine-grain beta diversity to typological units, we found distinct patterns. As we explain in a conceptual figure, these can be related to ultimate drivers, such as productivity, stress and disturbance, which can influence z-values via multiple pathways. The provided means, medians and quantiles of z-values for a wide range of typological entities provide benchmarks for local to continental studies, while calling for additional data from under-represented units. Syntaxonomic references: Mucina et al. (2016) for classes occurring in Europe; Ermakov (2012) for classes restricted to Asia. Abbreviations: ANOVA = analysis of variance; EDGG = Eurasian Dry Grassland Group; SAR = species-area relationship.

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Research Paper Thu, 30 Dec 2021 18:09:36 +0200
Braun-Blanquet meets EcoVeg: a formation and division level classification of European phytosociological units https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/71299/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 275-291

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/71299

Authors: Wolfgang Willner, Don Faber-Langendoen

Abstract: Aims: To link the Braun-Blanquet units of the EuroVegChecklist (EVC) with the upper levels of the International Vegetation Classification (IVC), and to propose a division level classification for Europe. Study area: Europe. Methods: We established a tabular linkage between EVC classes and IVC formations and identified mismatches between these two levels. We then proposed IVC division level units to organize EVC classes. Results: We organized the EVC classes into 21 formations and 30 divisions. We flagged classes that did not fit comfortably within an existing formation, either because its content corresponded to more than one formation or because it did not fit any formation description. In a few cases, we split EVC classes because they seemed too heterogenous to be assigned to a single formation. Conclusions: The IVC approach adds a set of physiognomic and ecological criteria that effectively organizes the EVC classes, which are already being increasingly informed by physiognomy. Therefore, the formation concepts are relatively natural extensions of concepts already embedded in the classes. However, physiognomic placement of Braun-Blanquet classes can be difficult when the sampling of the vegetation is at finer grain than usual in the respective formation (tall-scrub, annual pioneer communities). Some EVC classes seem too heterogenous to fit into the IVC formation system. Delimitation of these classes has often been a matter of debate for many decades, and the IVC perspective might help to solve these intricate issues. In other cases, mismatches between phytosociological classes and IVC formations might better be solved by emending the current formation concepts. Abbreviations: BB = Braun-Blanquet; EVC = EuroVegChecklist; IVC = International Vegetation Classification.

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Review and Synthesis Mon, 13 Dec 2021 11:51:42 +0200
Regional typology of spring vegetation in Parc Ela (Grisons, Switzerland) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/69101/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 257-274

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/69101

Authors: Hallie Seiler, Daniel Küry, Regula Billeter, Jürgen Dengler

Abstract: Aims: The spring habitats of Central Europe are insular biotopes of high ecological value. Although subject to severe exploitation pressures, they do not yet have a comprehensive protection status in Switzerland. Contributing to this challenge is the controversy involved with their syntaxonomic classification. In the context of the development of a regional conservation strategy and the establishment of a national inventory of Swiss springs, we carried out a regional survey of spring vegetation and aimed to translate this into a classification system. Study area: Montane and subalpine zones of Parc Ela (Grisons, Switzerland). Methods: We selected 20 springs to cover different regions, elevations and bedrock types within the park. In each of them we recorded complete vascular plant and bryophyte composition as well as a range of environmental variables in three 1-m² plots that were placed to reflect the heterogeneity within the spring. After running an unsupervised classification with modified TWINSPAN, the distinguished vegetation units were characterized in terms of diagnostic species, species richness and environmental variables and placed within the syntaxonomic system. Results: Species richness was high (total species 264, mean 21.7 species in 1 m2). The two most important environmental gradients of the ordination were elevation/water conductivity and insolation/water pH/soil reaction EIV. We distinguished seven communities within two main groups. Conclusions: All unshaded springs, including those over siliceous bedrock, could be assigned to a broadly defined Cratoneurion. The petrifying springs were not strongly distinguishable floristically from other base-rich springs. The forest springs, although often not clearly differentiated from their unshaded counterparts, could be provisionally divided into the alliances Caricion remotae and Lycopodo europaei-Cratoneurion commutati. As there is a certain threat to these habitats in the park due to anthropogenic influence, protection measures are recommended, most importantly the appropriate management of alpine pastures. Taxonomic reference: Juillerat et al. (2017) for vascular plants, Meier et al. (2013) for bryophytes. Abbreviations: ANOVA = analysis of variance; DCA = detrended correspondence analysis; EIV = ecological indicator value; FOEN = Federal Office of the Environment (Switzerland); NCHO = Ordinance on the Protection of Nature and Cultural Heritage; SD = standard deviation; TWINSPAN = Two Way Indicator Species Analysis; WPA = Federal Act on the Protection of Waters.

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Research Paper Mon, 13 Dec 2021 11:51:34 +0200
Poplar box woodlands of Eastern Australia: an assessment of a threatened ecological community within the IVC framework https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/71216/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 241-255

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/71216

Authors: John T. Hunter, Eda Addicott

Abstract: Aims: Ecosystems nationally at risk in Australia are listed under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act (EPBC Act), and many cross State jurisdictional boundaries. The determination of these ecosystems across the State boundaries are based on expert knowledge. The International Vegetation Classification has the potential to be useful as a cross-jurisdictional hierarchy which also gives global perspective to ecosystems. Study Area: All bioregions that include Eucalyptus populnea as a dominant or major component of woodlands across the species known distribution. Methods: We use plot-based data (455 plots) from two states (Queensland and New South Wales) in eastern Australia and quantitative classification methods to assess the definition and description for the Poplar Box Woodland ecosystem type (hereafter “ecological community” or “community”) that is listed as endangered under the EPBC Act. Analyses were conducted using kR-CLUSTER methods to generate alliances. Within these alliances, analyses were undertaken to define associations using agglomerative hierarchical clustering and similarity profile testing (SIMPROF). We then explore how assigning this community into the IVC hierarchy may provide a mechanism for linking Australian communities, defined at the association and alliance levels, to international communities at risk. Results: We define three alliances and 23 associations based on the results of floristic analysis. Using the standard rule-set of the IVC system, we found that the IVC hierarchy was a useful instrument in correlating ecological communities across jurisdictional boundaries where different classification systems are used. It is potentially important in giving a broader understanding of communities that may be at risk continentally and globally. Conclusions: We conclude that the IVC hierarchy can incorporate Australian communities at the association level into useful units at higher levels, and provides a useful classification tool for Australian ecosystems. Taxonomic reference: PlantNET (http://plantnet/10rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/) [accessed June 2019]. Abbreviations: EPBC Act = Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act; IVC = International Vegetation Classification; NMDS = non-metric multidimensional scaling; NSW = New South Wales; PCT = Plant Community Type; QLD = Queensland; RE = Regional Vegetation Community; SIMPER = similarity percentage analysis; SIMPROF = Similarity profile analysis.

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Research Paper Mon, 6 Dec 2021 10:43:50 +0200
Request (4) and Proposal (28): to conserve the name Molinio arundinaceae-Quercetum roboris Neuhäusl et Neuhäuslová-Novotná 1967 https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/71490/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 237-239

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/71490

Authors: Michal Slezák, Ján Kliment, Milan Valachovič

Abstract: We propose (i) to select Quercus robur as the name-giving taxon of the associations Molinio arundinaceae-Quercetum Samek 1962 and Molinio arundinaceae-Quercetum Neuhäusl et Neuhäuslová-Novotná 1967 and (ii) to conserve the younger name Molinio arundinaceae-Quercetum roboris Neuhäusl et Neuhäuslová-Novotná 1967, representing hygrophytic Central European acidophilous oak forests (Quercion roboris alliance). (28) Molinio arundinaceae-Quercetum Neuhäusl et Neuhäuslová-Novotná 1967: 17–23, table 2. Typus: Neuhäusl and Neuhäuslová-Novotná (1967), table 2, rel. 11 (lectotypus; Pallas 1996: 51). (H) Molinio arundinaceae-Quercetum Samek 1962: 134–135, table V on p. 156–160. Typus: Samek (1962), Table V, rel. 28 (lectotypus; Moravec 1998: 33). Taxonomic reference: Marhold et al. (1998). Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Nomenclatural Proposal Mon, 6 Dec 2021 10:43:32 +0200
Request (3) for a binding decision on the valid publication of the names Xerobromion and Mesobromion in Zoller 1954 https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/74046/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 233-235

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/74046

Authors: Massimo Terzi, Romeo Di Pietro, Jean-Paul Theurillat

Abstract: The two alliances Xerobromion and Mesobromion derive from the change of rank of two suballiances of the Bromion Koch 1926 (Xerobromenion and Mesobromenion). Zoller (1954a) recognized that those suballiances could not belong to the same alliance (i.e. Bromion) and treated them as two separate alliances, although some doubts can be raised that he did not clearly adopted them at the rank of alliance. Zoller’s work having been overlooked, other authors proposed subsequently to rise the Xerobromenion and Mesobromenion to the rank of alliances. Accordingly, the alliances Xerobromion and Mesobromion are often cited with author citations other than Zoller 1954. The present paper requests a binding decision on the valid publication of the names Xerobromion and Mesobromion in Zoller (1954a). Abbreviations: EVC = EuroVegChecklist; ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Nomenclatural Proposal Mon, 6 Dec 2021 10:41:02 +0200
Grasslands of Navarre (Spain), focusing on the Festuco-Brometea: classification, hierarchical expert system and characterisation https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/69614/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 195-231

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/69614

Authors: Itziar García-Mijangos, Asun Berastegi, Idoia Biurrun, Iwona Dembicz, Monika Janišová, Anna Kuzemko, Denys Vynokurov, Didem Ambarlı, Javier Etayo, Goffredo Filibeck, Ute Jandt, Rayna Natcheva, Oktay Yildiz, Jürgen Dengler

Abstract: Aims: To clarify the syntaxonomic position of the grasslands in Navarre, with special focus on the dry grasslands, and to characterise the resulting syntaxonomic units in terms of diagnostic species and ecological conditions. Study area: Navarre (northern Spain). Methods: We sampled 119 plots of 10 m2 following the standardised EDGG methodology and analysed them together with 839 plots of similar size recorded in the 1990. For the classification, we used the modified TWINSPAN algorithm, complemented by the determination of diagnostic species with phi coefficients of association, which led to the creation of an expert system. We conducted these steps in a hierarchical manner for each syntaxonomic rank. We visualised the position of the syntaxa along environmental gradients by means of NMDS. Species richness, and structural and ecological characteristics of the syntaxa were compared by ANOVAs. Results: We could clearly identify five phytosociological classes: Lygeo-Stipetea, Festuco-Brometea, Molinio-Arrhenatheretea, Nardetea strictae, and Elyno-Seslerietea. Within the Festuco-Brometea a xeric and a meso-xeric order could be distinguished, with two alliances each, and eight associations in total: Thymelaeo-Aphyllanthetum, Jurineo-Festucetum, Helianthemo-Koelerietum, Prunello-Plantaginetum, Carduncello-Brachypodietum, Helictotricho-Seslerietum, Calamintho-Seselietum and Carici-Teucrietum. Conclusions: The combination of numerical methods allowed a consistent and more objective classification of grassland types in Navarre than previous approaches. At the association level, we could largely reproduce the units previously described with traditional phytosociological methods. By contrast, at higher syntaxonomic level, our analyses suggest significant modifications. Most importantly, a major part of the units traditionally included in the Festuco-Ononidetea seem to fall within the Festuco-Brometea. We could show that bryophytes and lichens are core elements of these grasslands and particularly the Mediterranean ones of Lygeo-Stipetea, both in terms of biodiversity and of diagnostic species. We conclude that the combination of our different numerical methods is promising for deriving more objective and reproducible delimitations of syntaxa in a hierarchical manner. Taxonomic references: Euro+Med (2006–2021) for vascular plants, Hodges et al. (2020) for bryophytes and The British Lichen Society (2021) for lichens, except for Endocarpon loscosii, Heppia lutosa, Psora saviczii and P. vallesiaca, which follow Nimis and Martellos (2021), and Buellia zoharyi, Fulgensia poeltii, Lichenochora clauzadei and Toninia massata, which follow Llimona et al. (2001). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016), except for those syntaxa specifically treated here and given with authorities. Abbreviations: ANOVA = analysis of variance; EDGG = Eurasian Dry Grassland Group; NMDS: non-metric multidimensional scaling; TWINSPAN = Two-Way Indicator Species Analysis.

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Research Paper Mon, 6 Dec 2021 10:40:33 +0200
New syntaxa of tall-forb vegetation in the Pamir-Alai and western Tian Shan Mts. (Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, Middle Asia) – an addendum to Nowak et al. 2020 https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/73498/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 191-194

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/73498

Authors: Arkadiusz Nowak, Sebastian Świerszcz, Sylwia Nowak, Marcin Nobis

Abstract: We validate eleven syntaxa (eight associations and three alliances) of tall-forb vegetation that were published earlier as nomina provisoria according to the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature. The validation concerns syntaxa of tall-forb vegetation of the class Prangetea ulopterae Klein 1987 reported from Pamir-Alai and western Tian Shan Mountains (Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan). Taxonomic reference: Cherepanov (1995). Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Short Communication Mon, 25 Oct 2021 19:14:17 +0300
The vegetation of rich fens (Sphagno warnstorfii-Tomentypnion nitentis) at the southeastern margins of their European range https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/69118/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 177-190

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/69118

Authors: Michal Hájek, Petra Hájková, Iva Apostolova, Desislava Sopotlieva, Irina Goia, Daniel Dítě

Abstract: Question: Rich fens of the Sphagno warnstorfii-Tomentypnion nitentis alliance require a specific combination of base richness and climate to occur. Their rarity at the southeastern margins of their European range has previously prevented rigorous vegetation classification. We asked how many associations may be delimited here and whether some of them are restricted to the high Balkan Mountains showing high endemicity. Study area: Entire territories of Bulgaria and Romania. Methods: We compiled all available vegetation-plot records, including some hitherto unprocessed data. We classified them by both divisive (modified TWINSPAN) and agglomerative (beta-flexible clustering) numerical classification method, with OPTIMCLASS1 applied to set the number of clusters. A semi-supervised approach (k-means) was additionally applied to confirm the classification of Southern-Carpathian (Romania) rich fens, where some Balkan taxa occur. Differences in base richness and elevation were tested by one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s pairwise test. Results: Three associations were delimited and all three occur in Bulgaria, from where only one association had been previously reported. Two associations characterised by Sphagnum contortum and Balkan and Southern-European species occur in Bulgaria, but not in Romania, one at lower elevations around 1,200 m, and one at higher elevations around 2,000 m where pH is lower. One lower-elevation (around 1,300 m) association with S. warnstorfii and S. teres is shared between Romania, Bulgaria and Central Europe. Conclusions: We have described a new high-mountain association, with two subassociations that differ by successional stage and dominant peat moss species (S. contortum and S. warnstorfii, respectively). These subassociations could be reconsidered when more data from other Balkan countries are available. Rich fens in southeastern Europe are rare, have a diverse vegetation, and are deserving of the further attention of nature conservation authorities and vegetation scientists. Taxonomic reference: The nomenclature was harmonized following The Euro+Med PlantBase (Euro+Med 2021) for vascular plants and Hill et al. (2006) for bryophytes, except of Angelica pancicii that is accepted as a separate taxon in Bulgaria (Andreev et al. 1992; Delipavlov et al. 2003). Critical taxa, not always reliably differentiated in the field and in literary sources, were merged to aggregates: Alchemilla vulgaris agg. (all Alchemilla species), Anthoxanthum odoratum agg. (A. alpinum, A. odoratum), Molinia caerulea agg. (M. arundinacea subsp. arundinacea, M. arundinacea subsp. freyi, M. caerulea), Palustriella commutata agg. (P. commutata, P. falcata), Plagiomnium affine agg. (P. affine, P. elatum, P. ellipticum), Sphagnum palustre agg. (S. centrale, S. palustre). Syntaxonomic reference: Peterka et al. (2017) for alliances.

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Research Paper Thu, 7 Oct 2021 16:50:27 +0300
A novel biome concept and classification system based on bioclimate and vegetation – a Neotropical assay https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/64759/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 159-175

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/64759

Authors: Gonzalo Navarro, José Antonio Molina

Abstract: The knowledge of biomes as large-scale ecosystem units has benefited from advances in the ecological and evolutionary sciences. Despite this, a universal biome classification system that also allows a standardized nomenclature has not yet been achieved. We propose a comprehensive and hierarchical classification method and nomenclature to define biomes based on a set of bioclimatic variables and their corresponding vegetation structure and ecological functionality. This method uses three hierarchical biome levels: Zonal biome (Macrobiome), Biome and Regional biome. Biome nomenclature incorporates both bioclimatic and vegetation characterization (i.e. formation). Bioclimate characterization basically includes precipitation rate and thermicity. The description of plant formations encompasses vegetation structure, physiognomy and foliage phenology. Since the available systems tend to underestimate the complexity and diversity of tropical ecosystems, we have tested our approach in the biogeographical area of the Neotropics. Our proposal includes a bioclimatic characterization of the main 16 Neotropical plant formations identified. This method provides a framework that (1) enables biome distribution and changes to be projected from bioclimatic data; (2) allows all biomes to be named according to a globally standardized scheme; and (3) integrates various ecological biome approaches with the contributions of the European and North American vegetation classification systems. Taxonomic reference: Jørgensen et al. (2014). Dedication: This work is dedicated to the memory of and in homage to Prof. Dr. Salvador Rivas-Martínez.

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Review and Synthesis Thu, 7 Oct 2021 16:50:02 +0300
Xeric grasslands of the inner-alpine dry valleys of Austria – new insights into syntaxonomy, diversity and ecology https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/68594/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 133-157

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/68594

Authors: Martin Magnes, Wolfgang Willner, Monika Janišová, Helmut Mayrhofer, Elías Afif Khouri, Christian Berg, Anna Kuzemko, Philipp Kirschner, Riccardo Guarino, Harald Rötzer, Elena Belonovskaya, Asun Berastegi, Idoia Biurrun, Itziar García-Mijangos, Ermin Masic, Jürgen Dengler, Iwona Dembicz

Abstract: Aims: We studied the syntaxonomic position, biodiversity, ecological features, nature conservation value and current status of dry grasslands investigated by Josias Braun-Blanquet more than 60 years ago. Study area: Inner-alpine valleys of Austria. Methods: We sampled 67 plots of 10 m2, following the standardized EDGG methodology. We subjected our plots to an unsupervised classification with the modified TWINSPAN algorithm and interpreted the branches of the dendrogram syntaxonomically. Biodiversity, structural and ecological characteristics of the resulting vegetation units at association and order level were compared by ANOVAs. Results: All the examined grasslands belong to the class Festuco-Brometea. From ten distinguished clusters, we could assign four clusters to validly published associations, while the remaining six clusters were named tentatively. We classified them into three orders: Stipo-Festucetalia pallentis (Armerio elongatae-Potentilletum arenariae, Phleo phleoidis-Pulsatilletum nigricantis, Medicago minima-Melica ciliata community, Koelerio pyramidatae-Teucrietum montani), Festucetalia valesiacae (Sempervivum tectorum-Festuca valesiaca community); Brachypodietalia pinnati (Astragalo onobrychidis-Brometum erecti, Agrostis capillaris-Avenula adsurgens community, Anthericum ramosum-Brachypodium pinnatum community, Ranunculus bulbosus-Festuca rubra community, Carduus defloratus-Brachypodium pinnatum community). Conclusions: The ten distinguished dry grassland communities of the Austrian inner-alpine valleys differ in their ecological affinities as well as their vascular plant, bryophyte and lichen diversity. We point out their high nature conservation importance, as each of them presents a unique habitat of high value. Taxonomic reference: Names of vascular plants, bryophytes and lichens follow Fischer et al. (2008), Frahm and Frey (2004) and Nimis et al. (2018), respectively. Syntaxonomic reference: Names of orders and classes follow Mucina et al. (2016), references for associations and alliances are given in the text. Abbreviations: ANOVA = analysis of variance; DCA: detrended correspondence analyses; EDGG: Eurasian Dry Grassland Group; EIV: ecological indicator value; FL: Fließ; GR: Griffen; GU: Gulsen; KA: Kaunerberg; LA: Laudegg castle in Ladis; MA: Marin; NM: Neumarkt in der Steiermark; OM: Obermauern; PÖ: Pöls; PU: Puxer Loch; TWINSPAN = Two-way indicator species analysis; ZS: Zinizachspitze.

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Research Paper Fri, 1 Oct 2021 17:00:02 +0300
Long term changes of the inner-alpine steppe vegetation: the dry grassland communities of the Vinschgau (South Tyrol, Italy) 40–50 years after the first vegetation mapping https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/65217/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 117-131

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/65217

Authors: Maximilian Lübben, Brigitta Erschbamer

Abstract: Aims: The Vinschgau is the driest inner-alpine valley in the Eastern Alps and harbours a unique steppe vegetation. We studied these dry grassland communities and aimed to answer the following questions: Which plant communities can be found currently? Do the syntaxa described by Braun-Blanquet in the 1960s still prevail in the area? Has there been any change in species composition over the last 40–50 years? Study area: Along an approximately 40 km transect, the south-facing slopes of the Vinschgau valley (South Tyrol, Italy) from Mals to Plaus were investigated. Methods: For the classification, 92 relevés were sampled in 2019 and compared with 76 relevés from the 1960s and ´70s by means of vegetation tables and ordinations (Detrended Correspondence Analysis). Results: Based on our investigation, the majority of dry grassland communities can be classified as Festuco-Caricetum supinae. Three subassociations were defined by the dominant species Stipa capillata, Bothriochloa ischaemum and Stipa pennata agg. The comparison of new and old relevés shows an increase in species from the class Sedo-Scleranthetea (e.g. Trifolium arvense, Erodium cicutarium) and the association Artemisieto-Agropyretum. In addition, ruderal elements (e.g. Erigeron annuus, Convolvulus arvensis) have also migrated into dry grasslands. A shift in the dominance over time can be recognized as well. In particular, Festuca rupicola and to some extent also Stipa capillata, have increased in abundance and frequency. Conclusions: We suggest to include the investigated closed dry grasslands in the alliance Festucion valesiacae. The rank of the character species at association, alliance and order level should be re-analysed. In order to obtain a better syntaxonomic overview of western and eastern alpine dry grassland communities in relation to Eastern European dry grasslands, a comprehensive study is absolutely necessary. Furthermore, long-term vegetation dynamics and vegetation change need to be studied in more detailed future studies. Taxonomic reference: Fischer et al. (2008). Syntaxonomic references: Mucina et al. (2016) for syntaxa from alliance to class level; Braun-Blanquet (1961) for associations. Abbreviations: agg. = aggregate; cf. = confer (means ‘compare’); DCA = Detrended Correspondence Analysis; s. lat. = sensu lato; s. str. = sensu stricto

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Research Paper Fri, 1 Oct 2021 17:00:01 +0300
Syntaxonomy of steppe depression vegetation of Ukraine https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/62825/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 87-108

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/62825

Authors: Viktor Shapoval, Anna Kuzemko

Abstract: Aims: To revise the syntaxonomy of the vegetation of steppe depressions (pody), in particular (1) to identify the associations and to reveal their environmental, structural and compositional peculiarities; (2) to assign the associations to higher syntaxa; and (3) to correct nomenclatural aspects according to the ICPN. Study area: Steppe zone of Ukraine, Left-Bank of the Lower Dnieper basin. Methods: 641 relevés were included in the final analysis in the PCOrd program integrated into Juice software. Two expert systems (EVC and EUNIS-ESy) were used to assign relevés to vegetation classes and to EUNIS units. Results: The analysis resulted in nine clusters, which were interpreted as Festuco-Brometea (two units), Molinio-Arrhenatheretea (three units), Isoёto-Nanojuncetea (three units) and one derivate community of the Festuco-Puccinellietea. Detailed characteristics of the species composition, structure, distribution, and environmental conditions are provided for each unit. According to the DCA ordination, the leading factors of the syntaxa differentiation are soil moisture and fluctuating water level. Conclusions: We could clarify the placement of steppe depression vegetation in the system of syntaxonomic units of Europe. The previously described syntaxa of the rank of alliance (Myosuro-Beckmannion eruciformis), suballiance (Galio ruthenici-Caricenion praecocis), and six associations are validated. Two associations and two subassociations are described as a new to science. Taxonomic references: Euro+Med PlantBase (https://www.emplantbase.org), except Mosyakin and Fedoronchuk (1999) for Phlomis scythica Klokov & Des.-Shost. and Tulipa scythica Klokov & Zoz. Syntaxonomic references: Mucina et al. (2016) for syntaxa from alliance to class level; Dubyna et al. (2019) for associations. Abbreviations: DCA = Detrended Correspondence Analysis; DES = Didukh Ecological Scales; EUNIS = European Nature Information System; EVC = EuroVegChecklist; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Research Paper Thu, 12 Aug 2021 10:24:26 +0300
First vegetation-plot database of woody species from Huíla province, SW Angola https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/68916/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 109-116

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/68916

Authors: Francisco M.P. Gonçalves, António V. Chisingui, José C. Luís, Marina F.F. Rafael, José J. Tchamba, Manuel J. Cachissapa, Isaías M.C. Caluvino, Bernardino R. Bambi, José L.M. Alexandre, Magno D.G. Chissingui, Silva K.A. Manuel, Henrique D. Jacinto, Manfred Finckh, Paulina Meller, Norbert Jürgens, Rasmus Revermann

Abstract: Angola is a country in south-central Africa, particularly rich in biodiversity. Despite the efforts recently made to document its biodiversity, there is a need for standardized sampling methods to document and compare the variety of ecosystems and plants occurring in the country. With this database report we aim to document the abundance and diversity of woody species in the woodlands of Huíla province. The database hosts the results of a standardised plot-based vegetation survey, consisting of 448 vegetation plots distributed throughout the 14 municipalities and Bicuar National Park. In total, 40,009 individuals belonging to 44 plant families were recorded and measured, belonging to 193 woody species. Species richness per municipality ranged from 32 to 126. The mean stem diameter (DBH) was 10.9 cm ± 7.5 cm. Small-size classes are increasingly dominated by few species, while the largest trees come from a wider range of species; miombo key-species dominated almost all size classes. Our study represents the first plot-based vegetation survey of any Angolan province and constitutes a useful source of information for conservation and management. Additionally, may constitute a powerful dataset to support future studies on biodiversity patterns and vegetation change over time and facilitate the elaboration of vegetation maps. Taxonomic reference: Checklist of Angolan Plants (Figueiredo and Smith 2008), The African Plant Database (version 3.4.0) and A new classification of Leguminosae (LPWG 2017). Abbreviations: DBH = Diameter at Breast Height; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; LUBA = Acronym of the Herbarium of Lubango

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Long Database Report Thu, 12 Aug 2021 09:59:42 +0300
Requests (1–2) for a binding decision on the name-giving taxa in the names Isoeto-Cicendietum Br.-Bl. 1967 and Verbeno-Gnaphalietum Rivas Goday 1970 https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/68430/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 71-72

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/68430

Authors: Vasco Silva, José Antonio Molina

Abstract: We propose to complete two association names of the class Isoeto-Nanojuncetea by selecting the name-giving taxa according to Art. 40 of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2021).

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Nomenclatural Proposal Wed, 30 Jun 2021 17:53:03 +0300
Terrestrial biomes: a conceptual review https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/61463/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 73-85

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/61463

Authors: John Hunter, Scott Franklin, Sarah Luxton, Javier Loidi

Abstract: Aims: We attempt to review the conceptualisation, science and classification of biomes and propose to limit the definition of a biome to potential natural vegetation as determined by general environmental variables. Results: Classifying the distribution and abundance of vegetation types on earth has been a central tenet of vegetation science since Humboldt’s classic studies in the early 1800s. While the importance of such classifications only grows in the wake of extreme changes, this review demonstrates that there are many fundamentally different approaches to define biomes, hitherto with limited efforts for unifying concepts among disciplines. Consequently, there is little congruence between the resulting maps, and widely used biome maps fail to delimit areas with consistent climate profiles. Conclusions: Gaps of knowledge are directly related to research avenues, and suggestions for defining and classifying biomes, as well as modelling their distributions, are provided. These suggestions highlight the primary importance of the climate, argue against using anthropogenic drivers to define biomes and stabilize the concept of biome to escape from the current polysemy. The last two decades have seen an emergence of new approaches, e.g., using satellite imagery to determine growth patterns of vegetation, leading to defining biomes based on the objective, observable qualities of the vegetation based on current reality.

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Review and Synthesis Wed, 30 Jun 2021 09:47:48 +0300
Proposals (26–27): to conserve the names Nanocyperetalia Klika 1935 and Isoetetalia Braun-Blanquet 1936 https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/66398/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 65-69

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/66398

Authors: Federico Fernández-González, Vasco Silva, Jean-Paul Theurillat

Abstract: After a nomenclatural revision of the higher rank syntaxa of the class Isoeto-Nanojuncetea, the conservation of the order name Nanocyperetalia against Nanocypero-Polygonetalia and a conserved type for the order Isoetetalia are proposed. (26) Nanocyperetalia Klika 1935: 292, nom. cons. propos. Typus: Nanocyperion flavescentis Koch 1926: 20–28 (holotypus) (≡) Nanocypero-Polygonetalia Koch 1926: 20, nom. rejic. propos. (27) Isoetetalia Braun-Blanquet 1936a: 142, typus cons. propos. Typus: Isoetion Braun-Blanquet 1936a: 141 (typus cons. propos.) Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2020). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: ICPN = International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature.

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Nomenclatural Proposal Thu, 24 Jun 2021 09:41:29 +0300
SWEA-Dataveg: A vegetation database for sub-Saharan Africa https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/64911/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 59-63

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/64911

Authors: Miguel Alvarez, Michael Curran, Itambo Malombe

Abstract: SWEA-Dataveg is a vegetation-plot database collecting observations mainly in sub-Saharan Africa but also open to the rest of the African continent. To date this database contains more than 5,500 plot observations provided by 47 sources (projects, monographs, and articles). While the database is stored in PostgreSQL (including the PostGIS extension), the R-package “vegtable” implements a suitable exchange format. In this article we assess the current content of SWEA-Database and introduce its history and future as a repository of data for syntaxonomic assessments and macroecological research.

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Long Database Report Wed, 5 May 2021 22:55:15 +0300
Syntaxonomy of the xero-mesophytic oak forests in the Republic of Tatarstan (Eastern Europe) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/39583/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 47-58

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/39583

Authors: Maria Kozhevnikova, Vadim Prokhorov

Abstract: Aims: To develop a syntaxonomic classification of the xero-mesophytic broad-leaved oak forests of the Republic of Tatarstan with a preliminary analysis of their unique ecological features. Study area: The Republic of Tatarstan (European part of the Russian Federation). Methods: A total of 91 relevés were processed. Most of them (73.6%) were sampled in Tatarstan during 2016 and 2017, the remaining ones (26.4%) were historical published data. They were classified by means of a modified TWINSPAN algorithm using total inertia as a heterogeneity measure. Diagnostic, constant, and dominant species were identified using analytical tools in the JUICE 7.0 program. Results: The xero-mesophytic forests of the study area were assigned to four clusters. We describe two of them as new associations: Astragalo ciceri-Quercetum roboris ass. nova and Sanguisorbo officinalis-Quercetum roboris ass. nova. We classify them within the class Quercetea pubescentis. Conclusions: Our study is the first attempt to classify thermophilous and xero-mesophytic oak forests of the Republic of Tatarstan using the Braun-Blanquet system. Taxonomic reference: Czerepanov (1995). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016) unless stated otherwise in the text. Abbreviations: GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; NMDS = Non-metric multidimensional scaling.

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Research Paper Mon, 19 Apr 2021 00:24:32 +0300
Global Vegetation Project: An Interactive Online Map of Open-Access Vegetation Photos https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/60575/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 41-45

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/60575

Authors: Jesse R. Fleri, Sienna A. Wessel, David H. Atkins, Nicholas W. Case, Shannon E. Albeke, Daniel C. Laughlin

Abstract: The Global Vegetation Project (http://gveg.wyobiodiversity.org) is a new initiative to host an online database of open-access, georeferenced vegetation photos. The mission of the Global Vegetation Project is ‘to inspire and empower people of all ages to learn about the diversity of vegetation on our planet and to provide educators with a resource for teaching ecology online’. The beta release includes two R-Shiny web applications that allow users to 1) submit photos of plant communities through a user-friendly online portal and 2) explore submissions made by others through an interactive global map. The spatial coordinates of each photo are used to extract information about the location including long-term and recent climate data to create Walter and Leith climate diagrams for each photo. User submitted photos can be filtered by biome, temperature, precipitation, and elevation on the map. The Global Vegetation Project will evolve to match the needs of vegetation scientists and ecology educators. We intend to enhance the educational value of the mapping application by incorporating additional search features, global data layers, and the publication of curricula geared towards primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. We encourage the global community of vegetation scientists to use this resource in their classrooms and to contribute photos of vegetation to grow this valuable resource for the world.

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Report Wed, 14 Apr 2021 13:42:51 +0300
Validation of the names of some Cretan high mountain syntaxa, with considerations about Article 3i, ICPN https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/62998/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 37-39

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/62998

Authors: Erwin Bergmeier, Jean-Paul Theurillat

Abstract: To comply with the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature (ICPN), we validate the names Saturejo spinosae-Scutellarietalia hirtae, Arenarion creticae, Verbascion spinosi and Lomelosio sphacioticae-Centranthetum sieberi. Two divergent interpretations of Article 3i about the point at issue in the validation of the first three names are discussed. Syntaxonomic reference: Bergmeier (2002), unless indicated otherwise in the text.

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Short Communication Mon, 15 Mar 2021 12:43:52 +0200
Vegetation Classification and Survey: the first year https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/63608/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 1-4

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/63608

Authors: Wolfgang Willner, Idoia Biurrun, Jürgen Dengler, Florian Jansen

Abstract: We report on the completed first volume of Vegetation Classification and Survey (VCS), which included ten Research Papers, six Short Database Reports, two Long Database Reports, two Forum Papers and one Report. We highlight three outstanding papers as examples of contributions of which we would like to see more in the future. Finally, we announce a new article type “VCS Methods” and report about the status of two upcoming Special Collections. Lists of colleagues who served as reviewers or linguistic editors in 2020 are included in appendices. Abbreviations: IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science; VCS = Vegetation Classification and Survey.

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Editorial Wed, 17 Feb 2021 23:51:59 +0200
Grassland with tradition: sampling across several scientific disciplines https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/60739/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 19-35

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/60739

Authors: Monika Janišová, Anamaria Iuga, Cosmin Marius Ivașcu, Martin Magnes

Abstract: The traditional, low-input use of grassland in Central and Eastern Europe has provided high-quality food, clothing and manure for millennia. As an outcome of sustainable low-intensity agriculture, some rural areas have globally significant species richness. Traditional farming is still well preserved in several regions of the Carpathian Mountains. This is a unique opportunity to use the wisdom of our ancestors to keep grassland biodiversity for our descendants. We present a sampling methodology to survey traditionally managed grassland ecosystems holistically, including abiotic, biological and cultural phenomena, and reflect thus the multidimensionality of traditional farming. Our main objective was to reveal the connection between particular management practices and precisely measured plot plant diversity. Our motivation was to identify traditional farming approaches that result in both high biodiversity and sustainable grassland utilization in particular region, and confirm their impact also using statistical tests. The multitaxon vegetation sampling at seven spatial scales combined with soil analyses, detailed land-use information derived from interviews with the land parcel owners, satellite pictures and historical materials provide potentially valuable data for several scientific disciplines including syntaxonomy, plant ecology, environmental anthropology and ethnology. Examples of grassland management practices based on traditional ecological knowledge can serve as an inspiration for developing modern biodiversity conservation strategies applicable for rural regions. The database Grassland with Tradition is registered in Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases (GIVD) with the identifier ID EU-00-032. To date it contains data from 31 study sites in 7 countries (Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Ukraine). Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016).

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VCS Methods Wed, 17 Feb 2021 20:10:30 +0200
Floristic patterns of the neotropical forests, savannas and scrublands with Trithrinax campestris (Arecaceae) in central Argentina https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/59384/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 2: 5-18

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2021/59384

Authors: Sebastián R. Zeballos, Marcelo R. Cabido, Juan J. Cantero, Alicia T.R. Acosta, M. Virginia Palchetti, Juan Argarañaz, Paula I. Marcora, Paula A. Tecco, Ana Ferreras, Guillermo Funes, Victoria M. Vaieretti, Georgina Conti, Melisa A. Giorgis

Abstract: Aims: Trithrinax campestris is one of the palm species with the southernmost distribution in the Neotropics. Despite that the vegetation types in which T. campestris occurs are nowadays heavily threatened by land use and land cover changes, their floristic composition and structure are still to be documented. In order to characterize T. campestris habitats, the aim of this study was to describe the floristic composition of the vegetation types in which this palm occurs and their relationships with different environmental factors. Study area: The survey was conducted in central Argentina in an area comprising the southern extreme of the distribution of T. campestris in the following phytogeographic areas: Espinal, Lowland and Mountain Chaco. Methods: Following the Braun-Blanquet approach we collected 92 floristic relevés recording a total of 601 vascular plant species. Vegetation was classified through the ISOPAM hierarchical analysis. Bioclimatic and elevation data were related to the floristic data through the ISOMAP ordination. Remote-sensed images (Landsat TM, ETM+ and OLI) were used to characterize the fire frequency in the 92 stands. Results: Four vegetation types that differed in floristic composition and in diagnostic species were discriminated: 1.1 Celtis tala/Sida rhombifolia closed forest; 1.2 Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco/Prosopis kuntzei open forest; 2.1 Jarava pseudoichu/Vachellia caven open savanna; and 2.2 Acalypha variabilis/Nassella cordobensis scrubland. The ISOMAP ordination showed that differences in floristic composition were related to elevation, topography and climatic variables.Out of the 92 stands, only 21 showed the occurrence of fires during the period 1999–2018. Conclusions: Our results evidenced that vegetation types (forests, savannas and scrublands) comprising T. campestris developed in a wide range of environmental conditions. This is the first study that focuses on all vegetation types in which T. campestris occurs in central Argentina and it is relevant for conservation and sustainable management of the only native palm species in the flora of this part of the country. Taxonomic reference: Catálogo de las Plantas Vasculares del Cono Sur (Zuloaga et al. 2008) and its online update (http://www.darwin.edu.ar). Abbreviations: ISOMAP = isometric feature mapping; ISOPAM = isometric partitioning around medoids.

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Research Paper Wed, 17 Feb 2021 20:07:01 +0200
SIVIM Alpine – Database of high-mountain grasslands in the Iberian Peninsula https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/62232/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 219-220

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/62232

Authors: Borja Jiménez-Alfaro, Xavier Font

Abstract: SIVIM Alpine (GIVD ID: EU-00-034) is a thematic database focused on vegetation plots from alpine grasslands of the Iberian Peninsula. The main aim of the database is to centralize historical and new vegetation plots of grassland-like communities above the treeline from Spanish mountains, the Pyrenees (including France and Andorra) and Serra da Estrela (Portugal). The database was registered in GIVD in December 2020, and it is currently available in EVA under semi-restricted regime. SIVIM Alpine includes both digitized relevés from the literature and unpublished data. Most of digitized relevés overlap with SIVIM (GIVD ID EU-00-004) but the header data and the geographical coordinates of SIVIM Alpine have been improved when possible. The database is routinely updated with new surveys conducted with GPS and detailed ecological data. Nowadays, SIVIM Alpine contains 6,420 vegetation plots corresponding to all phytosociological alliances described in the Iberian Peninsula for high-mountain grassland vegetation, 85% of them also classified at the association level. Plot size is available for 80% of the relevés. Plant taxonomy keeps the names provided by the original authors of the relevés, with an additional correspondence to Euro+Med and The Plant List, when possible. The database is continuously updated by revisiting the original sources. Different versions of the database have been used to vegetation analysis at national at continental scales. Abbreviations: EVA = European Vegeation Archive; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; SIVIM = Iberian and Macaronesian Vegetation Information System.

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Short Database Report Wed, 30 Dec 2020 14:56:04 +0200
Classification of tall-forb vegetation in the Pamir-Alai and western Tian Shan Mountains (Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, Middle Asia) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/60848/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 191-217

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/60848

Authors: Arkadiusz Nowak, Sebastian Świerszcz, Sylwia Nowak, Marcin Nobis

Abstract: Aims: To complete the syntaxonomic scheme for tall-forb vegetation of the montane and alpine belts in the Pamir-Alai and western Tian Shan Mountains in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan with some remarks on its environmental predictors. Study area: Middle Asia: Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Methods: A total of 244 relevés were sampled in 2013–2019 using the seven-degree cover-abundance scale of the Braun-Blanquet approach. These were classified with a modified TWINSPAN algorithm with pseudospecies cut-levels 0%, 5% and 25%, and total inertia as a measure of cluster heterogeneity. Diagnostic species were identified using the phi coefficient as a fidelity measure. NMDS was used to explore the relationships between the distinguished groups. Results: Our classification revealed 19 clusters of tall-forb vegetation in Middle Asia. Among others we found forb communities typical for Tian Shan, western Pamir-Alai, forb-scree vegetation of Pamir-Alai, dry tall-forbs and typical forbs of the alpine belt. A total of eight new tall-forb associations and five communities were distinguished. The forb vegetation of Middle Asia has been assigned to the class Prangetea ulopterae Klein. The main factors differentiating the species composition of the researched vegetation are elevation, mean annual temperature, sum of annual precipitation and inclination of the slope. Conclusions: The paper presents the first insight into the comprehensive classification of the alpine forb vegetation in Middle Asia and fosters progress in explaining the relationship of boreo-temperate and Mediterranean-like (Irano-Turanian) vegetation in western Asian and central Asian subregions of the Irano-Turanian phytogeographical region. Taxonomic references: The nomenclature of the vascular plants follows generally Cherepanov (1995) and for Bromus spp. The Plant List (2020) Version 1.1. http://www.theplantlist.org/. Syntaxonomic references: The names of syntaxa are used in accordance with Ermakov (2012), Gadghiev et al. (2002) and Nowak et al. (2018). Abbreviation: NMDS = Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling.

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Research Paper Wed, 30 Dec 2020 13:34:44 +0200
Phytosociological overview of the Fagus and Corylus forests in Albania https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/54942/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 175-189

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/54942

Authors: Giuliano Fanelli, Petrit Hoda, Mersin Mersinllari, Ermelinda Mahmutaj, Fabio Attorre, Alessio Farcomeni, Vito Emanuele Cambria, Michele De Sanctis

Abstract: Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the mesophilous forests of Albania including Fagus sylvatica and submontane Corylus avellana forests. Mesophilous Albanian forests are poorly known and were not included in the recent syntaxonomic revisions at the European scale. Study area: Albania. Methods: We used a dataset of 284 published and unpublished relevés. They were classified using the Ward’s minimum variance. NMDS ordination was conducted, with over-laying of climatic and geological variables, to analyze the ecological gradients along which these forests develop and segregate. Random Forest was used to define the potential distribution of the identified forest groups in Albania. Results: The study identified seven groups of forests in Albania: Corylus avellana forests, Ostrya carpinifolia-Fagus sylvatica forests, lower montane mesophytic Fagus sylvatica forests, middle montane mesophytic Fagus sylvatica forests, middle montane basiphytic Fagus sylvatica forests, upper montane basiphytic Fagus sylvatica forests, upper montane acidophytic Fagus sylvatica forests. These can be grouped into four main types: Corylus avellana and Ostrya carpinifolia-Fagus sylvatica forests, thermo-basiphytic Fagus sylvatica forest, meso-basiphytic Fagus sylvatica forest and acidophytic Fagus sylvatica forests. This scheme corresponds to the ecological classification recently proposed in a European revision for Fagus sylvatica forests Conclusion: Our study supports an ecological classification of mesophilous forests of Albania at the level of suballiance. Analysis is still preliminary at the level of association, but it shows a high diversity of forest types. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med PlantBase (http://ww2.bgbm.org/EuroPlusMed/) [accessed 25 Novemeber 2019]. Syntaxonomic references: Mucina et al. (2016) for alliances, orders and classes; Willner et al. (2017) for suballiances.

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Research Paper Wed, 30 Dec 2020 12:42:28 +0200
Arable Weeds and Management in Europe https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/61419/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 169-170

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/61419

Authors: Jana Bürger, Helen Metcalfe, Christoph von Redwitz, Alicia Cirujeda, Silvia Fogliatto, Guillaume Fried, Denise Fu Dostatny, Michael Glemnitz, Bärbel Gerowitt, José Luis González-Andújar, Eva Hernández Plaza, Jordi Izquierdo, Michaela Kolářová, Jevgenija Ņečajeva, Sandrine Petit, Gyula Pinke, Matthias Schumacher, Lena Ulber, Francesco Vidotto

Abstract: “Arable Weeds and Management in Europe” is a collection of weed vegetation records from arable fields in Europe, initiated within the Working Group Weeds and Biodiversity of the European Weed Research Society (EWRS). Vegetation-plot data from this scientific community was not previously contributed to databases. We aim to prove the usefulness of collection for large scale studies through some first analyses. We hope to assure other weed scientists who have signalled willingness to share data, and plan to construct a full data base, making the data available for easy sharing. Presently, the collection has over 60,000 records, taken between 1996 and 2015. Many more studies for potential inclusion exist. Data originate mostly from studies exploring the effect of agricultural management on weed vegetation. The database is accompanied with extensive meta-data on crop and weed management on the surveyed fields. The criteria for inclusion were a minimum amount of information on the cultivated crop, and a georeference. Most fields were surveyed repeatedly, i.e. transects, multiple random plots, or repeated visits. All surveys aimed to record the complete vegetation on the plots. Sometimes, taxa were identified only to genus level, due to survey dates very early in the vegetation period. Plant taxonomy is standardized to the Euro+Med PlantBase.

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Short Database Report Mon, 21 Dec 2020 23:05:13 +0200
SIVIM Floodplain Forests – Database of riverine forests and scrubs from the Iberian Peninsula https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/61660/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 171-172

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/61660

Authors: Idoia Biurrun, Xavier Font

Abstract: “SIVIM Floodplain Forests“ (GIVD ID: EU-00-024) is a thematic database focused on vegetation plots of riverine forests and scrubs from the Iberian Peninsula and the Pyrenees (Spain, Portugal and southern France). It was registered in the GIVD in February 2016. The data are available both from EVA and sPlot in semi-restricted regime. The database includes both digitized relevés from the literature and unpublished data. Many digitized relevés were derived from SIVIM (GIVD ID EU-00-004) and BIOVEG (GIVD ID EU-00-011), with which SIVIM Floodplain Forests thus partly overlaps. Currently it contains 4,736 vegetation plots of floodplain forests, alder carrs, willow scrubs, and tamarisk and oleander thickets, 99% of them classified at association level. Plot size is available for 94.6% of the relevés. Plant taxonomy is standardized to Flora Iberica. The database has been used for studies on vegetation classification at Iberian and European level, as well as studies on plant invasion, fine-grain plant diversity and macroecological analyses, most of them via EVA. Abbreviations: BIOVEG = Vegetation-Plot Database of the University of the Basque Country; EVA = European Vegeation Archive; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; SIVIM = Iberian and Macaronesian Vegetation Information System.

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Short Database Report Mon, 21 Dec 2020 15:28:44 +0200
The concept of vegetation class and order in phytosociological syntaxonomy https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/59977/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 163-167

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/59977

Authors: Javier Loidi

Abstract: In order to stabilize the defining concepts of the higher rank syntaxonomic units such as class or order, the criteria of floristic content and unity of origin are enunciated. This is done with the aim of preventing the fragmentation of the large classes and the subsequent typological inflation. For orders, the criterion of specific floristic content is discussed, with orders that have been described to encompass seral secondary forests or the separation of forest vegetation from that which is dominated by shrubs rejected, due to their weak floristic characterization. These criteria have been applied to two forest vegetation classes: the European temperate (Querco-Fagetea) and the Mediterranean (Quercetea ilicis). For the first, it is argued in favor of maintaining a single class for all temperate deciduous forests in Europe instead of dividing them into four. Within this single class five orders are distinguished: Fagetalia, Quercetalia roboris, Quercetalia pubescenti-petraeae, Alno-Fraxinetalia and Populetalia albae, rejecting the orders that have been proposed for secondary forests because they have few characteristic taxa. For the sclerophyllous and macchia forests of Mediterranean Europe, the Quercetea ilicis class can be split into two or three geographical orders, rejecting the Pistacio-Rhamnetalia alaterni as a shrubby physiognomic unit. Taxonomic reference: Castroviejo S (coord. gen.) (1986–2012) Flora iberica 1–8, 10–15, 17–18, 21. Real Jardín Botánico, CSIC, Madrid, ES. Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016).

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Forum Paper Mon, 21 Dec 2020 14:58:44 +0200
SIVIM Deciduous Forests – Database of deciduous forests from the Iberian Peninsula https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/61776/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 173-174

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/61776

Authors: Juan Antonio Campos, Arnau Mercadé, Xavier Font

Abstract: “SIVIM Deciduous Forests” is a thematic database established in 2015, focused on forest vegetation from the Iberian Peninsula and southern France. It was registered in the Global Index of Vegetation Databases (GIVD ID: EU-00-023) in January 2016. All types of temperate and submediterranean non-riparian deciduous forests of the phytosociological classes Carpino-Fagetea sylvaticae, Quercetea pubescentis and Quercetea robori-petraeae (formerly combined in the class Querco-Fagetea) are represented in the database. Currently, it contains 6,642 published vegetation plots of beech, birch, ash, lime and other deciduous mixed forests, as well as forests dominated by different species of deciduous and marcescent oaks, 100% of them classified at association level. Data are stored in TURBOVEG format, and are available upon request from the international vegetation-plot databases EVA and sPlot in semi-restricted regime. The relevés have also been included in SIVIM database, and thus they are freely available online. However, in SIVIM Deciduous Forests geolocation accuracy has been improved and the taxonomy and syntaxonomy unified. Plot size is available for 73% of the relevés, of which 82% are between 100 and 400 m2. Plant taxonomy is standardized to Flora iberica. During the last four years, data of SIVIM Deciduous Forests were requested via EVA and sPlot for different projects, and have been used for several studies with various objectives, from floristic, vegetation and habitat-related topics to macroecological studies, and from local to global scales. Abbreviations: EVA = European Vegetation Archive; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; SIVIM = Iberian and Macaronesian Vegetation Information System.

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Short Database Report Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:41:20 +0200
DUMIRA – a management related vegetation plot database of Dutch military ranges https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/59869/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 155-161

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/59869

Authors: Iris de Ronde, Rense Haveman, Anja van der Berg, Tom van Heusden

Abstract: In this paper we describe the historical background and contents of the DUMIRA vegetation plot database (GIVD-code EU-NL-003). It contains 13,046 relevés, collected between 1995 and 2018 at military ranges in the Netherlands, and it is updated regularly with new data. Historical circumstances led to the placement of military ranges at the most nutrient poor, dry, sandy soils, and as a result, the database is built up mainly by plots of Calluno-Ulicetea and Nardetea heathlands, Koelerio-Corynephoretea grasslands, and Quercetea robori-petraeae woodlands. These classes account for more than 50% of the database. Coastal communities (e.g. from the Juncetea maritimae and the Therosalicornietea) and scrubs (e.g. the Lonicero-Rubetea plicati and Salicetea arenariae) are other important sources. Notably, throughout the database, Rubus species are identified to species level. Although the DUMIRA database was initially used for management related vegetation mapping projects, the data gave rise to several more scientific studies and papers. Taxonomic reference: Van der Meijden (2005) for vascular plants; Van de Beek et al. (2014) for Rubus; Kleukers et al. (2004) for Orthoptera. Syntaxonomic reference: Mucina et al. (2016). Abbreviations: DUMIRA = Vegetation plot database of Dutch Military Ranges; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-plot Databases; MoD = Ministry of Defence.

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Long Database Report Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:39:16 +0200
Eastern European Steppe Database https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/60520/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 149-150

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/60520

Authors: Denys Vynokurov, Yakiv Didukh, Olga Krasova, Hennadiy Lysenko, Igor Goncharenko, Iryna Dmytrash-Vatseba, Olga Chusova, Dariia Shyriaieva, Vitalii Kolomiychuk, Ivan Moysiyenko

Abstract: The Eastern European Steppe Database (GIVD ID EU-00-030) includes 6961 vegetation plots of dry grassland vegetation from Eastern Europe (Steppe and Forest-Steppe zones, mountain regions), mainly from Ukraine (4579 relevés), Russia (2403 relevés) and Moldova (203 relevés). 3912 vegetation plots are from different literature sources (66 sources), 219 are from the phytosociological card-index of the M.G. Kholodny Institute of Botany, NAS of Ukraine, 2830 relevés are authors’ relevés. They were established in 1935-2019 years. The database comprises mainly the vegetation of the class Festuco-Brometea (around 95% of the dataset), and a small proportion of Koelerio-Corynephoretea canescentis, Artemisietea vulgaris, Crataego-Prunetea. The taxonomy of vascular species is given according to Cherepanov (1995) for vascular plants, Ignatov and Afonina (1992) for bryophytes and identification guides of the USSR (1971–1978) and Russia (1996, 1998) for lichens. The database is part of the European Vegetation Archive.

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Short Database Report Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:37:46 +0200
Balkan Vegetation Database (BVD) – updated information and current status https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/61348/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 151-153

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/61348

Authors: Kiril Vassilev, Hristo Pedashenko, Alexandra Alexandrova, Alexandar Tashev, Anna Ganeva, Anna Gavrilova, Armin Macanović, Assen Assenov, Antonina Vitkova, Beloslava Genova, Borislav Grigorov, Chavdar Gussev, Ermin Masic, Eva Filipova, Gana Gecheva, Ina Aneva, Illona Knolova, Ivaylo Nikolov, Georgi Georgiev, Georgi Gogushev, Georgi Tinchev, Ivan Minkov, Kalina Pachedzieva, Katerina Mincheva, Koycho Koev, Mariyana Lyubenova, Marius Dimitrov, Media Gumus, Momchil Nazarov, Nadezhda Apostolova-Stoyanova, Nikolay Nikolov, Nikolay Velev, Petar Zhelev, Plamen Glogov, Rayna Natcheva, Rossen Tzonev, Senka Barudanović, Sofia Kostadinova, Steffen Boch, Stephan Hennekens, Stoyan Georgiev, Stoyan Stoyanov, Todor Karakiev, Tijana Ilić, Veronika Kalníková, Veselin Shivarov, Vladimir Vulchev

Abstract: The Balkan Vegetation Database (BVD; GIVD ID: EU-00-019) is a regional database, which was established in 2014. It comprises phytosociological relevés covering various vegetation types from nine countries of the Balkan Peninsula (Albania – 153 relevés, Bosnia and Herzegovina – 1715, Bulgaria – 12,282, Greece – 465, Croatia – 69, Kosovo – 493, Montenegro – 440, North Macedonia – 13 and Serbia – 2677). Currently, it contains 18,306 relevés (compared to 9.580 in 2016), and most of them (82.8%) are geo-referenced. The database includes both digitized relevés from the literature (65.6%) and unpublished data (34.5%). Plot size is available for 84.7% of all relevés. During the last four years some “header data information” was improved e.g. elevation (now available for 83.4% of all relevés), aspect (67.7%), slope (66%), total cover of vegetation (54.3%), cover of tree, shrub, herb, bryophyte and lichen layers (27.1%, 20.1%, 40.2%, 11.5% and 2.1%), respectively. Data access is either semi-restricted (65.6%) or restricted (34.4%). Most relevés (84.6%) are classified to syntaxa of different levels. The database has been used for numerous studies with various objectives from floristic, vegetation and habitat-related topics, to macroecological studies at the local, regional, national, continental and global levels. During the last four years, BVD data were requested from 111 different projects via the EVA and sPlot databases.

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Short Database Report Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:09:18 +0200
First Report of the European Vegetation Classification Committee (EVCC) https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/60352/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 145-147

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/60352

Authors: Idoia Biurrun, Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: The European Vegetation Classification Committee (EVCC) was established in 2017 by the European Vegetation Survey to maintain and update a standard phytosociological classification of European vegetation. Vegetation scientists can send proposals for modification of specific parts of the EuroVegChecklist, which is used as a baseline. The proposals are accepted or rejected based on recommendations issued by a specialist group and after voting by EVCC members. Here we report the results of the first voting, which took place from 4 June to 4 July 2020. EVCC members voted on the recommendations issued for three proposals of change concerning spring and dune vegetation, and mediterranean grasslands. As a result, EVCC accepted to modify the classes Ammophiletea and Helichryso-Crucianelletea, but rejected to include the alliance Philonotidion seriatae and the class Charybdido pancratii-Asphodeletea ramosi. These rejections are not final, and similar proposals can be submitted again with new data supporting the proposed changes. Abbreviations: EVCC = European Vegetation Classification Committee; SG = Specialist Group.

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Report Thu, 17 Dec 2020 20:11:02 +0200
Vegetation Classification Exercise for the Pawnee National Grasslands, USA https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/38629/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 123-137

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/38629

Authors: Scott B. Franklin, Michael Scheibout, Jozef Šibik

Abstract: Aims: Vegetation classifications are useful for a variety of management purposes as well as scientific exploration. Local classifications are common throughout the United States but only recently have been integrated into a national classification system, which is now expected for local classifications. Study Area: The Pawnee National Grasslands (PNG) in northeastern Colorado, USA, has not been classified using plot data, and is thus a gap on the baseline knowledge of the PNG plant communities that hinders impact assessment of various anthropogenic activities. Methods: Here, we use 128 plots to classify the vegetation of the PNG using a two-step process: first, classifying the PNG plots alone to characterize local uniqueness, and then employing a semi-supervised classification with an additional 64 plots from areas to the north and east of the PNG, using standard classification procedures. Results: We document on the PNG the occurrence of two Classes, three Subclasses, four Formations, five Divisions, six Macrogroups, seven Groups and eight Alliances and Associations already described in the USNVC. Conclusions: The PNG is dominated by the Bouteloua gracilis-Buchloe dactyloides Grassland Association, which we further subdivide and describe as three local subassociations. The mixed-grass concepts in the USNVC do not exist in the PNG. Taxonomic reference: Hazlett (1998). Syntaxonomic reference: USNVC (2016). Abbreviations: BLM = Bureau of Land Management; CPER = Central Plains Experimental Range; ESA = Ecological Society of America; EST = Ecological Site Type; GPS UTM = Global Positioning System Universal Transverse Mercator; NEON = National Ecological Observatory Network; PNG = Pawnee National Grasslands; USNVC = United States Vegetation Classification.

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Research Paper Mon, 16 Nov 2020 17:54:12 +0200
What is an alliance? https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/56372/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 139-144

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/56372

Authors: Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: The alliance is the basic unit of the EuroVegChecklist, and it often serves as the lowest rank in broad-scale vegetation surveys. However, there is hardly any literature about the concept and definition of this syntaxonomic rank, leading to uncertainty in its application. Here, I explore the original association concept of Braun-Blanquet, which was based on absolute character species, and I show that this concept is more or less identical with the units that we now call alliances. By also incorporating the concept of central syntaxa, I propose the following definition: “An alliance is a moderately broad vegetation unit that either has one or several absolute character taxa or that can be interpreted as the central alliance of an order.” The one-to-one relationship between character taxa and vegetation units gives the latter a clear biogeographical and evolutionary meaning. Restrictions to the validity of character taxa – either to certain geographical areas or to physiognomic types – cause theoretical and practical problems and should be avoided. Possible exceptions are species with similar frequency in two formations or species introduced to other continents. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med PlantBase (http://ww2.bgbm.org/EuroPlusMed/) [accessed 1 July 2020].

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Forum Paper Mon, 16 Nov 2020 14:14:13 +0200
Grasslands on Coastal Headlands in New South Wales, south eastern Australia https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/48228/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 111-122

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/48228

Authors: John T. Hunter

Abstract: Aims: To use unsupervised techniques to produce a hierarchical classification of grasslands on coastal headlands of New South Wales in eastern Australia. Methods: A dataset of 520 vegetation plots scored on cover and placed across grasslands on coastal headlands (ca. 2000 km of coastline). Vegetation assemblages were identified with the aid of a clustering method based on group averaging and tested using similarity profile analysis (SIMPROF) using Bray-Curtis similarity. A hierarchical schema was developed based on EcoVeg hierarchy and was circumscribed using positive and negative diagnostic taxa via similarity percentage analysis (SIMPER) and importance based on summed cover scores and frequency. Mapping the occurrences grasslands was initially constructed using remote sensing which was verified and modified with on ground observations. Results: One group Themeda – Pultenaea – Zoysia – Cynodon grasslands and heathy grasslands was defined to include all coastal headland grassland vegetation of the New South Wales, and within this, three alliances and ten associations. Only one of the circumscribed associations is represented within the current state classification schema. In total 107 ha were mapped of which 68 ha occurred within secure conservation tenure. Conclusions: A number of unique and rare grassland assemblages on coastal headlands have to date gone undescribed. The most common alliance constitutes approximately 87% of extant grassland occurrences but is currently the only type listed as endangered and afforded protection. Although Poa spp. are listed as a threat to Themeda dominated assemblages on headlands data from this study suggest that this is unlikely to be the case. Taxonomic reference: PlantNET (http://plantnet/10rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/; accessed June 2019). Abbreviations: BC Act = Biodiversity Conservation Act; NMDS = non-metric multidimensional scaling; NSW = New South Wales; PCT = Plant Community Type; SIMPER = similarity percentage analysis; SIMPROF = Similarity profile analysis.

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Research Paper Tue, 16 Jun 2020 23:25:44 +0300
A new Vegetation-Plot Database for the Coastal Forests of Kenya https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/47180/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 103-109

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/47180

Authors: Maria Fungomeli, Anthony Githitho, Fabrizio Frascaroli, Saidi Chidzinga, Marcus Cianciaruso, Alessandro Chiarucci

Abstract: Biodiversity data based on standardised sampling designs are key to ecosystem conservation. Data of this sort have been lacking for the Kenyan coastal forests despite being biodiversity hotspots. Here, we introduce the Kenyan Coastal Forests Vegetation-Plot Database (GIVD ID: AF-KE-001), consisting of data from 158 plots, subdivided into 3,160 subplots, across 25 forests. All plots include data on tree identity, diameter and height. Abundance of shrubs is presented for 316 subplots. We recorded 600 taxa belonging to 80 families, 549 of which identified to species and 51 to genus level. Species richness per forest site varied between 43 and 195 species; mean diameter between 13.0 ± 9.8 and 30.7 ± 20.7 cm; and mean tree height between 5.49 ± 3.99 and 12.29 ± 10.61 m. This is the first plot-level database of plant communities across Kenyan coastal forests. It will be highly valuable for analysing biodiversity patterns and assessing future changes in this ecosystem. Taxonomic reference: African Plant Database (African Plant Database version 3.4.0). Abbreviations: DBH = diameter at breast height; GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases; KECF-VPD = Kenyan Coastal Forests Vegetation Plot Database.

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Long Database Report Tue, 16 Jun 2020 23:14:49 +0300
A phytosociological survey of aquatic vegetation in the main freshwater lakes of Greece https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/48377/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 53-75

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/48377

Authors: Dimitrios Zervas, Ioannis Tsiripidis, Erwin Bergmeier, Vasiliki Tsiaoussi

Abstract: Aims: This study aims to contribute to the knowledge of European freshwater lake ecosystems with updated and new information on aquatic plant communities, by conducting national-scale phytosociological research of freshwater lake vegetation in Greece. Moreover, it investigates the relationship between aquatic plant communities and lake environmental parameters, including eutrophication levels and hydro-morphological conditions. Study area: Lakes in Greece, SE Europe. Methods: 5,690 phytosociological relevés of aquatic vegetation were sampled in 18 freshwater lake ecosystems during 2013–2016. The relevés were subjected to hierarchical cluster and indicator species analyses in order to identify associations and communities of aquatic vegetation, as well as to describe their syntaxonomy. Multiple regression analysis was applied to investigate the relationship between vegetation syntaxa and environmental parameters of lakes, i.e. physico-chemical parameters and water level fluctuation. Results: Ninety-nine plant taxa belonging to 30 different families were recorded. Forty-six vegetation types were identified and described by their ecological characteristics, diagnostic taxa and syntaxonomical status. Thirteen vegetation types, the largest number belonging to the vegetation class Charetea, are considered to be new records for Greece. The distribution of the vegetation types recorded in the 18 freshwater lakes was found to depend on environmental parameters and levels of eutrophication. Conclusions: An updated aquatic vegetation inventory was produced for Greek lakes, and primary results showed that the presence/absence of aquatic plant communities and the community composition in freshwater lakes can be utilized to assess the pressure of eutrophication on lake ecosystems. Taxonomic reference: Euro+Med (2006–). Abbreviations: MNT = Mean number of taxa; WFD = Water Framework Directive.

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Research Paper Mon, 4 May 2020 20:48:06 +0300
The lowland seasonally dry subtropical forests in central Argentina: vegetation types and a call for conservation https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/38013/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 87-102

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/38013

Authors: Sebastián R. Zeballos, Melisa A. Giorgis, Marcelo R. Cabido, Alicia T.R. Acosta, María del Rosario Iglesias, Juan J. Cantero

Abstract: Aims: The native woody vegetation from the Espinal phytogeographic province in central Argentina, found in subtropical-warm temperate climates, represents part of the southernmost seasonally dry forest in South America. Although this vegetation has been studied for over a century, a complete phytosociological survey is still needed. This lack of knowledge makes its spatial delimitation and the establishment of efficient conservation strategies particularly difficult. The main goals of this study were to classify these forests and assess their current forest cover and to better define the extent of the Espinal phytogeographic province in Córdoba region, central Argentina. Study area: Espinal Phytogeographic Province in Córdoba region, central Argentina (ca. 101,500 km2). Methods: We sampled 122 stands following the principles of the Zürich-Montpellier School of phytosociology; relevés were classified through the ISOPAM hierarchical analysis. The extent of the Espinal phytogeographic province was established by overlaying previous vegetation maps, and a map showing the current distribution of forest patches was constructed based on a supervised classification of Landsat images. Results: Four woody vegetation types of seasonally dry subtropical forest were identified based on the fidelity and the abundance of diagnostic species: (1) Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco forest; (2) Zanthoxylum coco forest; (3) Geoffroea decorticans forest; and (4) Prosopis caldenia forest. These vegetation types were segregated along gradients of temperature and precipitation seasonality and soil-texture and sodium content. The remaining forest patches represent 3.43% of the extent of the Espinal province in Córdoba region of which only 1.05% is represented in protected areas. Conclusions: We present a classification of the Espinal forest based on a complete floristic survey. Despite the dramatic forest loss reported, our results show that some forest patches representative of the Espinal are still likely to be found in the area. However, urgent measures should be taken to establish new protected natural areas in order to preserve the last remaining forest patches. Taxonomic reference: Catálogo de las Plantas Vasculares del Cono Sur (Zuloaga et al. 2008) and its online update (http://www.darwin.edu.ar). Abbreviations: ISOMAP = isometric feature mapping; ISOPAM = isometric partitioning around medoids.

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Research Paper Mon, 4 May 2020 20:12:48 +0300
Forest characteristics, population structure and growth trends of Pinus yunnanensis in Tianchi National Nature Reserve of Yunnan, southwestern China https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/37980/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 7-20

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/37980

Authors: Cindy Q. Tang, Li-Qin Shen, Peng-Bin Han, Diao-Shun Huang, Shuaifeng Li, Yun-Fang Li, Kun Song, Zhi-Ying Zhang, Long-Yun Yin, Rui-He Yin, Hui-Ming Xu

Abstract: Aims: Pinus yunnanesis is commercially, culturally and economically important, but there is a lack of ecological data on its role in stand dynamics. Our aims are to clarify the structure, composition, regeneration and growth trends of primary mature P. yunnanensis forests. Study area: The Tianchi National Nature Reserve in the Xuepan Mountains, Yunlong County, northwestern Yunnan, China. Methods: We investigated forests containing P. yunnanensis, measured tree ages and analyzed the data. Results: Six forest types were identified: (1) coniferous forest: Pinus yunnanensis (Type 1); (2) mixed coniferous and evergreen broad-leaved forest: P. yunnanensis-Lithocarpus variolosus (Type 2); (3) mixed coniferous and deciduous broad-leaved forest: P. yunnanensis-Quercus griffithii (Type 3); (4) mixed evergreen broad-leaved and coniferous forest: Castanopsis orthacantha-P. yunnanensis-Schima argentea (Type 4); (5) mixed coniferous, evergreen and deciduous broad-leaved forest: Pinus yunnanensis-Schima argentea-Quercus griffithii (Type 5); (6) mixed coniferous and evergreen broad-leaved forest: Pinus armandii-Quercus rehderiana-Pinus yunnanensis (Type 6). The size- and age-structure and regeneration patterns of P. yunnanensis were highly variable within these six forest types. P. yunnanensis regeneration was well balanced in forest Type 1 as compared to the other five types. All six forest types were identified as rare and old-growth with P. yunnaensis trees reaching ages of more than 105 years (a maximum age of 165 years with a diameter 116 cm at breast height) except for the Type 4 forest (a 90-year-old stand). Growth rates of P. yunnanensis, based upon ring width measurements, were high for the first 10 years, then declined after the 10th year. In contrast, basal area increment (BAI) increased for the first 25 years, plateaued, and only declined as trees became older. Trees in the older age classes grew more quickly than younger trees at the same age, a consequence of either site quality or competitive differences. The BAI of P. yunnanensis in all age classes in the Tianchi National Nature Reserve was much higher than those of the secondary and degraded natural P. yunnanensis forests of other areas. Conclusions: The P. yunnanensis forests of the Tianchi area appear to be some of the last remnants of primeval and old-growth forests of this species. These forests are structurally diverse and contain a rich diversity of overstory, mid-story, and understory species. Taxonomic reference: Editorial Committee of Flora Republicae Popularis Sinicae (1959–2004) for vascular plants. Abbreviations: BA = basal area; BAI = basal area increment; DBH = diameter at breast height; H = height; RBA = relative basal area.

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Research Paper Mon, 4 May 2020 18:17:07 +0300
Vegetation classification goes open access https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/53445/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 1-6

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/53445

Authors: Florian Jansen, Idoia Biurrun, Jürgen Dengler, Wolfgang Willner

Abstract: With this inaugural editorial, we introduce Vegetation Classification and Survey (VCS), the new gold open access (OA) journal of the International Association for Vegetation Science (IAVS). VCS is devoted to vegetation classification at any spatial and organisational scale and irrespective of the methodological approach. It welcomes equally case studies and broad-scale syntheses as well as conceptual and methodological papers. Two Permanent Collections deal with ecoinformatics (including the standardised Database Reports published in collaboration with GIVD, the Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases) and phytosociological nomenclature (edited in collaboration with the respective IAVS Working Group). We discuss the advantages of OA as well as challenges and drawbacks caused by the way it is currently implemented, namely “pay for flaws” and publication impediments for scientists without access to funding. Being a society-owned journal, editorial decisions in VCS are free from economic considerations, while at the same time IAVS offers significant reductions to article processing charges (APCs) for authors with financial constraints. However, it is recognised that sustainable OA publishing will require that payment systems are changed from author-paid APCs to contracts between the science funding agencies and publishers or learned societies, to cover the production costs of journals that meet both quality and impact criteria. Abbreviations: APC = article processing charge, GIVD = Global Index of Vegetation-Plot Databases, IAVS = International Association for Vegetation Science, JVS = Journal of Vegetation Science, OA = open access, VCS = Vegetation Classification and Survey.

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Editorial Mon, 4 May 2020 17:29:01 +0300
Finite Mixture Model-based classification of a complex vegetation system https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/48518/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 77-86

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/48518

Authors: Fabio Attorre, Vito E. Cambria, Emiliano Agrillo, Nicola Alessi, Marco Alfò, Michele De Sanctis, Luca Malatesta, Tommaso Sitzia, Riccardo Guarino, Corrado Marcenò, Marco Massimi, Francesco Spada, Giuliano Fanelli

Abstract: Aim: To propose a Finite Mixture Model (FMM) as an additional approach for classifying large datasets of georeferenced vegetation plots from complex vegetation systems. Study area: The Italian peninsula including the two main islands (Sicily and Sardinia), but excluding the Alps and the Po plain. Methods: We used a database of 5,593 georeferenced plots and 1,586 vascular species of forest vegetation, created in TURBOVEG by storing published and unpublished phytosociological plots collected over the last 30 years. The plots were classified according to species composition and environmental variables using a FMM. Classification results were compared with those obtained by TWINSPAN algorithm. Groups were characterized in terms of ecological parameters, dominant and diagnostic species using the fidelity coefficient. Interpretation of resulting forest vegetation types was supported by a predictive map, produced using discriminant functions on environmental predictors, and by a non-metric multidimensional scaling ordination. Results: FMM clustering obtained 24 groups that were compared with those from TWINSPAN, and similarities were found only at a higher classification level corresponding to the main orders of the Italian broadleaf forest vegetation: Fagetalia sylvaticae, Carpinetalia betuli, Quercetalia pubescenti-petraeae and Quercetalia ilicis. At lower syntaxonomic level, these 24 groups were referred to alliances and sub-alliances. Conclusions: Despite a greater computational complexity, FMM appears to be an effective alternative to the traditional classification methods through the incorporation of modelling in the classificatory process. This allows classification of both the co-occurrence of species and environmental factors so that groups are identified not only on their species composition, as in the case of TWINSPAN, but also on their specific environmental niche. Taxonomic reference: Conti et al. (2005). Abbreviations: CLM = Community-level models; FMM = Finite Mixture Model; NMDS = non-metric multidimensional scaling.

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Research Paper Mon, 4 May 2020 15:58:21 +0300
Plant communities and their environmental drivers on an arid mountain, Gebel Elba, Egypt https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/38644/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 21-36

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/38644

Authors: Maged M. Abutaha, Ahmed A. El-Khouly, Norbert Jürgens, Jens Oldeland

Abstract: Aims: Gebel Elba is an arid mountain range supporting biological diversity that is incomparable to any other region of Egypt. This mountain has a vegetation structure and floristic community similar to the highlands of East Africa and the southwestern Arabian Peninsula. We aimed to provide the first classification of the vegetation units on Gebel Elba and identify the environmental factors controlling their distribution. Study area: Wadi Yahmib and its tributaries, which drain the north-western slopes of Gebel Elba, south-eastern Egypt. Methods: On the basis of 169 relevés, we used TWINSPAN to classify the perennial vegetation. We calculated separate GAMs for the deciduous and evergreen species to describe the patterns for each leaf strategy type with elevation. We used CCA to quantify the relationship between the perennial vegetation and the studied environmental factors. To estimate diversity and our sampling strategy, we used rarefaction curves for species richness. Results: We identified seven communities along the elevational gradient of Wadi Yahmib and its tributaries. We found that each community was restricted to a confined habitat depending on its drought resistance ability. Deciduous Vachellia woodland was the main vegetation type on Gebel Elba, while evergreen Olea woodland appeared in small fragments at higher elevations. We analysed the distribution patterns of deciduous and evergreen trees along the elevational gradient. We found a turnover at 500 m, indicating a potential ecotone between the Vachellia and Olea woodlands that was occupied by a Ficus community. CCA revealed the importance of altitude and soil quality in determining the vegetation structure of Gebel Elba. The species richness increased with elevation as a result of reduced stress and increased water availability at the upper wadis. Conclusions: This study identified seven vegetation units in the study area and showed the importance of orographic precipitation, soil quality and the complex topography in determining the habitats. Taxonomic reference: Boulos (2009); names updated according to POWO (2019). Abbreviations: CCA = Canonical Correspondence Analysis; GAM = Generalized Additive Model; TWINSPAN TWINSPAN = Two Way Indicator Species Analysis.

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Research Paper Mon, 4 May 2020 14:53:10 +0300
Montane mire vegetation of the New England Tablelands Bioregion of Eastern Australia https://vcs.pensoft.net/article/48765/ Vegetation Classification and Survey 1: 37-51

DOI: 10.3897/VCS/2020/48765

Authors: John T. Hunter, Vanessa H. Hunter

Abstract: Aims: To use unsupervised techniques to produce a hierarchical classification of montane mires of the study region. Study area: New England Tablelands Bioregion (NETB) of eastern Australia. Methods: A dataset of 280 vascular floristic survey plots placed across the variation in montane mires of the NETB was collated. Vegetation types were identified with the aid of a clustering method based on group averaging and tested using similarity profile analysis (SIMPROF) and through ordinations using Bray-Curtis similarity and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS). A hierarchical schema was developed based on EcoVeg hierarchy and was circumscribed using positive and negative diagnostic taxa via similarity percentage analysis (SIMPER) and importance based on summed cover scores and frequency. Results: We defined one macrogroup to include all montane mire vegetation of the NETB and within these two groups and twelve alliances. Conclusions: Our study re-enforced the separation of bogs from other montane mire systems and confirmed the separation of fens and wet meadows, a distinction that previously had not been independently tested. Based on our results many existing montane mire communities of the NETB have been ill-defined at multiple hierarchical levels, leading to confusion in threat status and mapping. Additionally, nearly half of the alliances we recognise were found to have no correlates within current classification systems, which necessarily has implications for the effectiveness of current conservation planning. Taxonomic reference: PlantNET (http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/, accessed June 2016). Abbreviations: BC Act = Biodiversity Conservation Act; EPBC Act = Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act; NETB = New England Tablelands Bioregion; NMDS = non-metric multidimensional scaling; PCT = plant community type; RE = regional ecosystem; SIMPER = similarity percentage analysis; SIMPROF = similarity profile analysis.

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Research Paper Mon, 4 May 2020 11:07:25 +0300