Calculating landscape diversity with alpha diversity indices

Abstract

Aim: The fundamental information layers of ecosystem-based management plans are obtained by calculating, modeling and mapping of biodiversity. This study was carried out to calculate and map of landscape diversity in the Kuyucak Mountain District, in the transition zone of the Mediterranean region. Methodology: Topographical diversity values of altitude, slope degree and radiation index for each cell (752.09 × 752.09 m) of Kuyucak Mountain District were calculated using Shannon Wiener, Simpson diversity, Renyi H and Rao indices. The index for each variable topographic map, which was prepared 2 using cellular values after the calculations was obtained by Geographic Information Systems. Results: The maps illustrating diversities of topographical variables were prepared in order to obtain more accurate model-based distribution map of biodiversity. Interpretation: Climate, topography and soil properties play important roles on biodiversity. There are also significant relationships between landscape diversity and biodiversity. That is why it is important to prepare not only climatic, topographic and soil maps but also diversity maps as explanatory variables for modeling and mapping of biodiversity.