Vegetation classification of Stipa steppes in China, with reference to the International Vegetation Classification

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