In this book, we plan to provide a solid conceptual background to the development and use of landscape pattern metrics. Specifically, we plan to provide a conceptual framework for classifying types of landscape patterns and classes of landscape metrics. Further, we plan to describe and illustrate the behavior of a comprehensive set of metrics and compare their performance under varying landscape conditions. We also plan to describe the use of the revised FRAGSTATS software program to analyze landscape patterns. Finally, we plan to provide a step-by-step protocol for conducting a landscape pattern analysis.

This book will be specifically targeted for scientists and managers interested in the proper use and interpretation of landscape metrics. It will be suitable as a supplement to upper-division and graduate courses in landscape ecology, but it will be valuable reference for scientists and managers seeking a better understanding of landscape metrics. We are currently working on this book and hope to have it available by the end of 2006.