Is there a correct stand density index? An alternate interpretation

Abstract

Recent authors have asserted that the original form of Reineke's stand density index is flawed, and that an additive version represents the correct form. An examination of the literature provides no historical or mathematical reason why additivity should be required in the original index. Reineke's stand density index, and the additive or area-based stand density index, should be considered as separate indices with different properties. The sensitivity of the area-based index to stand diameter distribution is illustrated with the Weibull distribution. Its sensitivity provides testable hypotheses that could be used in empirical studies to determine the better index.