The term beta diversity (β-diversity) was introduced by R. H. Whittaker together with the terms alpha diversity (α-diversity) and gamma diversity (γ-diversity). The idea was that the total species diversity in a landscape (γ) is determined by two different things, the mean species diversity at the habitat level (α) and the differentiation among habitats (β). Whittaker proposed several ways of quantifying differentiation, and subsequent generations of ecologists have invented more. As a result, the definition of beta diversity has become quite contentious. Some use beta diversity as a broad umbrella term that can refer to any of several indices related to compositional heterogeneity. Others argue that such broad usage should be avoided because it leads to confusion. Instead, they propose that the term beta diversity be used to refer to one phenomenon only (true beta diversity), and that other things be referred to by other names.
Read more about Beta Diversity: Beta Diversity in The Strict Sense (True Beta Diversity)
Famous quotes containing the word diversity:
“We call the intention good which is right in itself, but the action is good, not because it contains within it some good, but because it issues from a good intention. The same act may be done by the same man at different times. According to the diversity of his intention, however, this act may be at one time good, at another bad.”
—Peter Abelard (1079–1142)