Statistical evaluation of cross-classifications derived from rearranged community data matrices

In order to enhance interpretation of two-way contingency tables (cross-classifications) derived from two hierarchical classifications, new indices are suggested to evaluate the relative contribution of nodes in either hierarchy to the nodes or to a partition of groups derived from the other hierarchy. Using these tools, cut-levels in both hierarchies can be found to define optimal partitions, and groups from both partitions can be associated in order to identify their mutual relationships. The method is illustrated with an actual example from vegetation ecology.