Spatial pattern of Lebanon oak (Quercus libani Oliv.) in Baneh forests, Kurdistan province

Abstract

Spatial pattern is an important parameter in ecology of forest communities. Lebanon oak (Quercus libani Oliv.) as a native species covers 24% of northern Zagros forests. Quercus libani plays a significant role in ecological and social conditions of local people. Hence, the present study was conducted to investigate the spatial pattern of this oak species based on T-square sampling in Belake forests, northern Zagros. For this purpose, a 40-ha area was inventoried based on distance method. Systematic- random method with 25×25 m2 plots was used for inventory. A total of 43 random points with 100m distance were determined. Eberhardt, Hines, Hopkines, C index and Index of dispersion were used for dispersion pattern and the results were tested at 5% level. Eberhardt's index, Hines, Hopkines and Index of dispersion showed disperse pattern, while C index indicated clump pattern. But only Eberhardt's index result was significant. Our results can be applied as a useful tool in developing the management programs, afforestation and reforestation programs in order to protect the endangerd ecosystems.

Keywords

• Distance methods
• Eberhardt's index
• Northern Zagros forests
• T-square sampling