The determination of an efficient sampling intensity for studying beta diversity in plant communities

Abstract

The procedure described in this paper, when applied to data collected in a pilot study, enables determination of an efficient sampling intensity for studying beta diversity in a plant community. A statistic, S_β, is introduced as a measure of beta diversity. The method can be applied where (1) many species are to be observed, (2) quadrat sampling is to be used, and (3) presence:absence data are desired.