An investigation of spatial pattern in Pistacia atlantica Desf. stands by angular method in Javanroud region of Kermanshah

Abstract

In addition to composition and structure, the spatial pattern also plays a key role in forest ecosystems. These three attributes act in constellation by regulating ecosystem functioning and resilience. Regarding the socio-economic importance of Pistachio species, information on the spatial pattern of these trees can be considered as a criterion for management in semi-arid areas of Iran. In this study, the spatial pattern of wild Pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) was studied. Therefore, a 50-ha areas in Javanroud region was sampled in regular 100×100 m grids with 50 sample plots in a systematic random sampling design. In each sample, angles required for calculating Winkelmass (Wi) and Mean of Angle (MoA) indices were measured. The results showed clumpy pattern of the trees which also tended to random. In addition, the MoA index was shown to be insufficiently inaccurate for estimating the spatial pattern of P. atlantica across the study area.

Keywords

• Spatial pattern
• Pistacia atlantica
• Wi index
• MoA index
• Javanroud