A climatic analysis method for expert systems assisting tree species introductions

There is a need for improved methods to suggest whether a particular tree species is worth testing at a new location. A method is proposed which compares the climatic similarity of a potential new location with conditions within a species natural distribution, and identifies if similar sites exist. When information is available, climatic comparisons can also be made with successful sites of introduction outside the natural range. A program is described which carries out these comparisons and Eucalyptus citriodora is analysed as an example. It is concluded that the method offers advantages over systems which describe climatic requirements simply as ranges of suitable conditions. The importance of soil factors is recognised and ways in which these could be analysed along with climatic factors are noted. The integration of the similarity analysis into existing databases or its development as part of a complete expert system are discussed.