Distribution of wild service tree based on some ecological factors in Sangdeh forests, north of Iran

Abstract

This research was carried out in 40000 ha of Mazandaran central forests (southern coasts of Caspian sea) located in 100 km south of Sari city. The study area was divided into four altitudinal sections and a total of 185 plots with at least one wild service tree were laid out. Geographic and ecological condition of each plot and some characteristics of trees were recorded. The results showed that the number of Sorbus tree in south west and west slopes were more than the north, north east and east exposures. However, the best quality of Sorbus trees has been seen in Fagetum on north exposure. The slops with 25- 50% and 1750- 2000 m.a.s.l were the best habitats for Sorbus torminalis. The biggest individual Sorbus tree showed 32 m height and 103 cm in d.b.h. The height and trunk length of Sorbus trees decreased with increasing altitude and slop.

Keywords

• Sorbus torminalis
• DISTRIBUTION
• Altitude
• exposure
• slop