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Data from: Integrating fuzzy logic and statistics to improve reliabile definition of biogeographic regions and transition zones

Cite this dataset

Olivero, Jesús; Márquez, Ana L.; Real, Raimundo (2012). Data from: Integrating fuzzy logic and statistics to improve reliabile definition of biogeographic regions and transition zones [Dataset]. Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.1cq8n52h

Abstract

The present study uses the amphibian species of the Mediterranean Region to develop a consistent procedure based on fuzzy sets with which biogeographic regions and biotic transition zones can be objectively detected and reliably mapped. Biogeographical regionalizations are abstractions of the geographical organization of life on Earth that provide frameworks for cataloguing species and ecosystems, for answering basic questions in biogeography, evolutionary biology and systematics, and for assessing priorities for conservation. On the other hand, limits between regions may form sharply defined boundaries along some parts of their borders, whereas elsewhere they may consist of broad transition zones. The fuzzy set approach provided a heuristic way to analyze the complexity of the biota within an area; significantly different regions were detected whose mutual limits were sometimes fuzzy, sometimes clearly crisp. Most of the regionalizations described in the literature for the Mediterranean Region present a certain degree of convergence when they are compared within the context of fuzzy interpretation, as many of the differences found between regionalizations are located in transition zones, according to our case study. Compared to other classification procedures based on fuzzy sets, the novelty of our method is that both fuzzy logic and statistics are used together in a synergy in order to avoid arbitrary decisions in the definition of biogeographic regions and transition zones.

Usage notes

Location

Mediterranean Region