Stability and Characteristics of Spatial Description Parameters for Nematode Populations

Authors

  • H. Ferris
  • T. A. Mullens
  • K. E. Foord

Abstract

The parameters of Taylor's Power Law (s² = am[supb]) relating variance (s²) to mean population level (m) were acceptably stable in different fields with similar cropping systems. Values of both a and b parameters varied with nematode species. The value of a was a function of sample size (number of cores) and was characterized for each species. The value of b was stable across sample size and reflective of the life history strategy of the species. The relationship between the economic threshold and sampling intensity required to allow management decisions, with specified levels of risk, indicated the need for improved sampling technology. Key words: economic threshold, management decision, precision, risk, Taylor's Power Law.

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Published

1990-10-15

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Section

Articles