Boundary shape

[Rich Shepard]

On Thu, 8 Jul 1999, C.D.Lloyd wrote:

> My colleague is looking for software that will characterise the
> complexity of the boundary of an area. That is, if the boundary of an
> area had very `wiggledy' complex edges then it would be distinct from an
> area of which the edges were very smooth. The ultimate aim is to
> describe and compare the shape of different boundaries of enclosed areas
> derived from an interpretation of remotely-sensed imagery. 

  The way we do it in ecology is to calculate the ratio of perimeter to
area. The higher the number the more irregular the edge. You need to
calibrate it for your purposes. Quick and easy to do. Even a spreadsheet
will work.

Rich

Dr. Richard B. Shepard, President
Applied Ecosystem Services, Inc.
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