The point method has been utilized in many situations, with or without modifications; it has also been compared to other methods and critically discussed. A review of the literature reveals the advantages (speed precision, minimum disturbance of the stand) and disadvantages (dependence on diameter of the needle, wind action). A new index is introduced and discussed. It is referred to as the cover index (CI) and is obtained by summing absolute frequency, which represents cover, and absolute vigor, which is associated with biomass.
phytosociology; point method