Quantitative analysis of self-organized patterns in ombrotrophic peatlands
arXiv:1902.02571 · doi:10.1038/s41598-018-37736-8
Abstract
We numerically investigate a diffusion-reaction model of an ombrotrophic peatland implementing a Turing instability relying on nutrient accumulation. We propose a systematic and quantitative sorting of the vegetation patterns, based on the statistical analysis of the numbers and filling factor of clusters of both \textit{Sphagnum} mosses and vascular plants. In particular, we define the transition from \textit{Sphagnum}-percolating to vascular plant-percolating patterns as the nutrient availability is increased. Our pattern sorting allows us to characterize the peatland pattern stability under climate stress, including strong drought.
14 pages, 7 figures