Scaling from Species to Vegetation: The Usefulness of Functional Groups

Abstract

Introduction: What are Functional Groups and Why Use Them? Selecting Functional Groups Narrow and Wide Grouping: The Dilemma of Experimental Safety and Ecological Applicability Grouping of Plant Species with Respect to Structural, Physiological and Life Strategy Characteristics The Spatial Definition of Functional Groups within Plant Communities Ecosystems: the Largest Functional Group Integrating of Contrasting Levels of Complexity: A Compromise