Relationship between some ecological factors and distribution of yew tree (Taxus baccuta L.) in Arasbaran forests (Case study: Ilganechay and Horand regions)

Abstract

In order to study the influence of some ecological factors on distribution of yew tree and its regeneration in Arasbaran forests, two habitats of yew including Kalaleh in Ilganechay and Kooran in Horand regions were studied. To provide appropriate distribution of sample plots, three altitudinal levels were selected for each region in each habitat (1100-1200, 1200-1300 and 1300-1400 m.a.s.l.) and on this basis, 43 circle sample plots, each 1000 m2, were laid out by selective sampling method. Also micro sample plots, each 100 m2, were laid out within the macro sample plots to study the regeneration. Some sample characteristics including altitude, slope gradient, aspect, crown cover, diameter at breast height and total height of all trees were recorded. Results indicated that yew trees prefer 1200 to 1300 m.a.s.l., north aspects with 51-75% slope gradient. Our study reveals that yew regeneration in undisturbed habitat (Kalaleh) with 53% seed origin seedlings were more in compare to the disturbed habitat (Kooran) with only 35% seed origin seedlings.

Keywords

• ECOLOGY
• yew tree
• Arasbaran
• regeneration
• selective sampling