Biogeographical Interpretation of Elevational Patterns of Genus Diversity of Seed Plants in Nepal.

ABSTRACT: This study tests if the biogeographical affinities of genera are relevant for explaining elevational plant diversity patterns in Nepal. We used simultaneous autoregressive (SAR) models to investigate the explanatory power of several predictors in explaining the diversity-elevation relationships shown in genera with different biogeographical affinities. Delta akaike information criterion (ΔAIC) was used for multi-model inferences and selections. Our results showed that both the total and tropical genus diversity peaked below the mid-point of the elevational gradient, whereas that of temperate genera had a nearly symmetrical, unimodal relationship with elevation. The proportion of temperate genera increased markedly with elevation, while that of tropical genera declined. Compared to tropical

SUBMITTER: Li M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4619261 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature