Determining vegetative complexity, biodiversity and species richness on tree islands of the northern Everglades

Loss of species richness and vegetative biodiversity in the Greater Everglades Area is in large part due to human encroachment and compartmentalization causing altered hydroperiods, water levels and surface sheet flow. This study quantifies vegetative complexity, biodiversity and species richness on four tree islands within a near pristine area of the historical northern Everglades ecosystem. A Complexity Index (CI) was formulated by assessing multiple variables; high CI and low herbaceous species richness values are attributed to mature, late successional stage forests. There are structural and population differences on each of the tree islands studied with the more mature tree islands located in the south of the study area, the more disturbed, low CI valued sites to the north. Data from this study is to be used as a baseline study for the area, and will be used to test and track the effects of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan.