I understand that Importance Value is a measure of how dominant a species is in a given forest area and It is a standard tool foresters use to inventory a forest. But does it have sense on epiphytes? And what do you suggest as a better way to describe structure of epiphytic community?
Buenos dias Maria,
I don't see any reason why this index could or should not be used for epiphytes. Generally, I tend to find some of these composite indices at times a bit problematic, because their meaning isn't always obvious at first glance for all readers (of papers, books etc.). But they are a standard tool, of course. So you're good to go in my view. However, if possible for you, I'd try to also add some other figures such as:
- overall count of specimens in the area
- density [specimens/area unit]
- average number of specimens per host plant/tree
- percentage of host trees/plants inhabited by epiphyte plant
- growth and size indicators
- flowering duration
Perhaps you can also create a 3D map of your sample area indicating not only total abundance and specimens found on the 2D ("ground") layer, but also height (= above ground) - as well as distance from central ground point of host tree/plant? --> An animated 4D visulaization may then be interesting to follow 3D dynamics through time (if you have that data).
Just some ideas...
Mucha suerte,
Julio
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