Classification of Biochores in Korea

Abstract

Through multiple stage analysis, the biochores in Korea were classified and organizedas a hierarchy system. In the 1st step, the isopleth lines of warmth index 100C, 85C, 55Cmonth and the coldness index ≠8C or ≠10Cmonth, which indicate the boundaries of plantformation zones (Yim and Kira 1975; Yim 1977), were applied in the determination of majorbiochores. In the 2nd step, these biochores were subdivided into the five classes based onThornthwaite’s moisture index(Im) and Yim and Kira(1976), as follows: 100Im, 100Im80,80Im60, 60Im20, and 20Im≠20. In the 3 rd step, the analysis of topographicfeatures yielded three categories of flatlands, gentle slope, and steep slope areas. These wereobtained by adopting the 100\ 100-meter gridded DEM and by considering the physical featuresof the Korean Peninsula. The features of relief in mountainous areas, waters, islands, etc. wereinterpretation of the distributional patterns of vegetation of vascular plants and similarphenomena.