A multivariate analysis of the niches of plant populations in raised bogs. I. Niche dimensions

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Abstract
Principal component analysis is used as an empirical procedure for defining ecological niches in plant populations in raised bogs. The two niche dimensions identified within the raised bogs are related to mineral-ion concentration: (1) atmospheric input differences owing to proximity to the ocean and (2) mineral-soil groundwater influence. Both of these niche dimensions are related to the two important gradients in the surface water quality of the state of Maine. By comparing the principal component analysis study of the vegetation with the principal component analysis study of the physical environment (peat) using transformation analysis, their very similar but non-linear relationship is demonstrated.