Research methods in ecologyClements, Frederic E. (Frederic Edward)
Science
Research methods in ecology
Clements, Frederic E. (Frederic Edward)
Plant ecology; Plant ecology -- Methodology
=92. Light sums, means, and curves.= Owing to the fact that the
selagraph has not yet been used in the field, no endeavor has been made
to determine the light value for every hour of the day in different
habitats. Consequently there has been no attempt to compute light sums
and means. Photometer readings have sufficed to interpret the effect of
light in the structure of the formation, and of the individual, but they
have not been sufficiently frequent for use in ascertaining sums and
means. The latter are much less valuable than the extremes, especially
when the relative duration of these is indicated. Means, however, are
readily obtained from the continuous records. Light sums are probably
impracticable, as the factor is not one that can be expressed in
absolute terms. The various kinds and combinations of light curves are
essentially the same as for humidity. The level curve through a series
of habitats is the most illuminating, but the day curve of hour
variations is of considerable value. The curve of daily duration, based
upon full sunlight, is also of especial importance for plants, and
stations which receive both sun and shade during the day.
TEMPERATURE
=93.= In consequence of its indirect action, temperature does not have a
striking effect upon the form and structure of the plant, as is the case
with water and light. Notwithstanding, it is a factor of fundamental
importance. This is especially evident in the character and distribution
of vegetation. It is also seen in the germination and growth of plants,
in the length of season, and in the important influence of temperature
upon humidity, and hence upon water-content. Because of its intimate
relation with the comfort of mankind, the determination of temperature
values has received more attention than that of any other factor, and
excellent simple and recording instruments are numerous. For plants, it
is also necessary to employ instruments for measuring soil temperatures.
The latter unquestionably have much less meaning for the plant than the
temperatures of the air, but they have a direct influence upon the
imbibition of water, and upon germination.
_Thermometers_
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