CHARACTERIZING CANOPY GAP STRUCTURE IN FORESTS USING WAVELET ANALYSIS

1. The wavelet transform is introduced as a technique to identify spatial structure in transect data. Its main advantages over other methods of spatial analysis are its ability to preserve and display hierarchical information while allowing for pattern decomposition. 2. Two applications are presented: simple one-dimensional simulations and a set of 200-m transect data of canopy opening measurements taken in 12 stands dominated by Pseudotsuga menziesii ranging over three developmental stages. 3. The calculation of the wavelet variance, derived from the transform, facilitates comparison based on dominant scale of pattern between multiple datasets such as the stands described. 4. The results of the analysis indicate that while canopy pattern trends follow stand development, small to intermediate disturbances significantly influence canopy structure.