FRAGSTATS is a spatial pattern analysis program for categorical maps. The landscape subject to analysis is user-defined and can represent any spatial phenomenon. FRAGSTATS simply quantifies the areal extent and spatial configuration of patches within a landscape; it is incumbent upon the user to establish a sound basis for defining and scaling the landscape (including the extent and grain of the landscape) and the scheme upon which patches are classified and delineated. We strongly recommend that you read the FRAGSTATS Background document on landscape pattern metrics (also available at this web site). The output from FRAGSTATS is meaningful only if the landscape mosaic is meaningful relative to the phenomenon under consideration.