Hierarchical land classification and mapping of Aglasun forest ecosystems in the Mediterranean region, Turkey

Hierarchical Land Classification of forest ecosystems is an attempt to classify the territory considering hierarchical distinctions of plant communities. Ecological land classification is especially crucial for semi natural or degraded forest ecosystems. In this study, a hierarchical land classification was generated for Aglasun forest ecosystems where urban and agricultural developments and non-stop human activity for fuel wood and timber have caused extensive degradation to native plant communities. Data obtained from 153 sample plots consisting of environmental characteristics and vascular plant species were evaluated by using cluster analysis, stepwise discriminate analysis, and chi-square test. Interspesific correlation analysis was applied to define the indicator species at each distinction level. Two sections, two subsections and four units were finally determined for the Aglasun forest district. The results of the stepwise discriminate analyses showed that the fundamental variables for classifying the district are altitude, exposition, latitude and longitude.