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A Comparison of Probability Density Functions Fitted by Derivative (Moments) and Optimization (Maximum Likelihood Estimation) Methods Used for Diameter Distribution Estimation
Gorgoso-Varela, J.J.; Adedapo, S.M.; Ogana, F.N. A Comparison of Probability Density Functions Fitted by Moments and Maximum Likelihood Estimation Methods Used for Diameter Distribution Estimation. Forests2024, 15, 425.
Gorgoso-Varela, J.J.; Adedapo, S.M.; Ogana, F.N. A Comparison of Probability Density Functions Fitted by Moments and Maximum Likelihood Estimation Methods Used for Diameter Distribution Estimation. Forests 2024, 15, 425.
Gorgoso-Varela, J.J.; Adedapo, S.M.; Ogana, F.N. A Comparison of Probability Density Functions Fitted by Moments and Maximum Likelihood Estimation Methods Used for Diameter Distribution Estimation. Forests2024, 15, 425.
Gorgoso-Varela, J.J.; Adedapo, S.M.; Ogana, F.N. A Comparison of Probability Density Functions Fitted by Moments and Maximum Likelihood Estimation Methods Used for Diameter Distribution Estimation. Forests 2024, 15, 425.
Abstract
Modelling diameter distribution is an integral part of forest management. It requires the use of a suitable probability density function or cumulative distribution function with the appropriate fitting method. In this study, we compared the suitability of eight probability density functions fitted by derivative and optimization methods used for diameter distribution estimation of forest stands. The derivation and optimization were used on A Charlier, beta, generalized beta, gamma, Gumbel, Johnson’s SB, and Weibull (2 and 3-parameter). We used data from 167 permanent sample plots from Atlantic forest (Quercus robur) and 59 temporary sample plots from tropical forests (Tectona grandis). The quality of the fits was evaluated with different indices such as Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Cramer-von Mises, mean absolute error, bias and mean squared error. The results showed Johnson’s SB function was more suitable for describing the diameter distribution of the stands. Johnson’s SB, 3-parameter Weibull and generalized beta had consistent performance regardless of the fitting methods. The quality of fits produced by gamma, Gumbel and 2-parameter Weibull was poor.
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