
Nonlinear Dynamics, Divergent Evolution, and PedodiversityNonlinear Dynamics, Divergent Evolution, and Pedodiversity 69
Defi ning S as the number of different soil types (soil richness) and A
as area, S = f(A). Previous work suggests that a power function is most
appropriate;
S = c A
b
For accumulative sampling curves where the S vs. A relationship
is developed by successively sampling larger or additional areas, the
coeffi cient c represents richness in the smallest areal unit, while the exponent
b indicates the rate of increase of soil types with area. For this type of curve
(as opposed to a relationship developed by sampling discrete units ...