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Delineation of ecosystem regions

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Abstract

As a means of developing reliable estimates of ecosystem productivity, ecosystem classification needs to be placed within a geographical framework of regions or zones. This paper explains the basis for the regions delineated on the 1976 mapEcoregions of the United States. Four ecological levels are discussed—domain, division, province, and section—based on climatic and vegetational criteria. Statistical tests are needed to verify and refine map units.

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Bailey, R.G. Delineation of ecosystem regions. Environmental Management 7, 365–373 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01866919

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