Investigations of changes in pasture composition by some classificatory methods.
Abstract
Qualitative data from heterogeneous grassland in N.E. Queensland were analysed using 3 computer techniques. Information analysis demonstrated the nature of the heterogeneity of the grassland, while linked analysis suggested that this heterogeneity was much more important than the effects of cutting, grazing and burning. Despite this dominance it was possible to use a 3rd technique, predictive analysis, to extract any treatment effects present in the data. Grazing was found to increase the abundance of Crotalaria gorensis (poisonous), Brachiaria meliiformis (a short grass invading drier sites), Alternaria denticulata (in moist habitats) and Echinochloa colonum (in wet habitats). Mowing and burning had no significant effects on the vegetation. Quantitative effects were not detectable in these analyses.-R.B.