Delineation of ecosystem regions

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 map Ecoregions 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. © 1983 Springer-Verlag New York Inc.