Tests of wildlife habitat models to evaluate oak-mast production
Wildlife Society Bulletin
By: R.L. Schroeder and L.D. Vangilder
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Abstract
We measured oak-mast production and forest structure and composition in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri and tested the accuracy of oak-mast prediction variables from 5 Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) species models. Acorn production was positively associated with several measures of abundance and canopy cover of oak trees, and with an index of mast production for all 5 HSI models. We developed 2 modified oak-mast models, based on inputs related to either oak tree density or oak canopy cover and diversity of oak tree species. The revised models accounted for 22-32% of the variance associated with acorn abundance. Future tests of HSI models should consider: (1) the concept of upper limits imposed by habitat and the effects of nonhabitat factors; (2) the benefits of a top-down approach to model development; and (3) testing models across broad geographic regions.
Suggested Citation
Schroeder, R., Vangilder, L., 1997, Tests of wildlife habitat models to evaluate oak-mast production: Wildlife Society Bulletin, v. 25, no. 3, p. 639-646.
ISSN: 1938-5463 (online)
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Tests of wildlife habitat models to evaluate oak-mast production |
| Series title | Wildlife Society Bulletin |
| Volume | 25 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Year Published | 1997 |
| Language | English |
| Larger Work Type | Article |
| Larger Work Subtype | Journal Article |
| Larger Work Title | Wildlife Society Bulletin |
| First page | 639 |
| Last page | 646 |