Date of Award
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Gallagher, Jacqueline
Abstract
Loss of species richness and vegetative biodiversity in the Greater Everglades Area is in large part due to human encroachment and compartmentalization causing altered hydroperiods, water levels and surface sheet flow. This study quantifies vegetative complexity, biodiversity and species richness on four tree islands within a near pristine area of the historical northern Everglades ecosystem. A Complexity Index (CI) was formulated by assessing multiple variables; high CI and low herbaceous species richness values are attributed to mature, late successional stage forests. There are structural and population differences on each of the tree islands studied with the more mature tree islands located in the south of the study area, the more disturbed, low CI valued sites to the north. Data from this study is to be used as a baseline study for the area, and will be used to test and track the effects of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan.
Extent
180 p.
Recommended Citation
Day, Irving M IV, "Determining vegetative complexity, biodiversity and species richness on tree islands of the northern Everglades" (2006). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2000 - 2009. 1034.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_5/1034
Identifier
FADT13332
Comments
Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2006.|Charles E. Schmidt College of Science|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2006.