A clustering program for delineating ecologically homogenous segments within a stream network using catchment area and valley landscape similarity rules. (October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schmidt, Bastian J.; Jones, Nicholas E.
• Is Part Of: Environmental modelling & software. Volume 132(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-10
• Subjects: Clustering -- Ecology -- Stream network -- Landscape character -- Upstream catchment -- Computer program; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Computer simulation -- Periodicals; Digital computer simulation -- Periodicals; Computer software -- Periodicals; Environmental Monitoring -- Periodicals; Computer Simulation -- Periodicals; Environnement -- Surveillance -- Logiciels -- Périodiques; Écologie -- Simulation, Méthodes de -- Périodiques; Simulation par ordinateur -- Périodiques; Logiciels -- Périodiques; Computer software; Digital computer simulation; Ecology -- Computer simulation; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 363.70015118
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2020.104776
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-8152

Abstract

Abstract: The characteristics of a landscape and drainage size defines the abiotic character of the stream. We advance on an existing clustering method by making it faster, more stable, capable of processing large areas, and adding several new user defined options. The software clusters interconfluence stream reaches into larger homogenous stream segments using a series of rules about network adjacency, upstream catchment area, and similarity of landscape characteristics. Landscape variables and clustering parameters are discussed to provide guidance for helping users achieve their clustering objectives. We provide an example of clustering stream reaches in Ontario, Canada that was used to develop a provincial aquatic classification.