Faunal provinces in Canada as exemplified by mammals and birds: a mathematical consideration

Abstract

Although different regions have a characteristic fauna, mathematical techniques based on rates of change in composition, changes in species density, and similarity of composition do not give unequivocal definitions of faunal provinces. There is some concordance between species consistency of large taxonomic groups (mammals, passerine, and non-passerine birds) and the ecological pressures exerted on the groups. Changes in species composition are characterized by gradual shifts over large zones of transition and not by sharp breaks between close homogeneous areas, so that no provinces or divisions are clearly defined.