Calculator
Use this calculator to determine the Shannon Diversity Index, an important metric in ecological studies to measure the diversity within a community.
Results
Data Source and Methodology
All calculations are based on the standard mathematical formula for the Shannon Diversity Index.
The Formula Explained
The Shannon Diversity Index \( H = -\sum (p_i \log(p_i)) \), where \( p_i \) is the proportion of individuals found in the i-th species.
Glossary of Variables
- Species Counts: The number of individuals in each species.
- Shannon Index: A measure of diversity in a community.
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example
Given species counts of 10, 20, and 30, calculate the total, determine each species' proportion, and apply the formula to find the Shannon Index.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Shannon Diversity Index used for?
The Shannon Diversity Index is used to measure the diversity within a community, taking into account both the abundance and evenness of species present.
How do I interpret the Shannon Index?
Higher values indicate greater diversity. A value of 0 indicates all members belong to a single species.
Formula (LaTeX) + variables + units
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Last code update: 2026-01-19
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