تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران (Dec 2005)
Site demands and some quantitative characteristics of Lebanon oak (Quercus libani Oliv.) in Kurdistan province
Abstract
This study was carried out in cities of Baneh and Marivan in Kurdistan province where are located at west of Iran. The main aim of the study was to determine the ecological characteristics of Lebanon oak (Quercus libani Oliv.) which is the most important tree species of northern Zagros region in Iran. After developing the distribution map of this species, the study area was divided into three main land forms, including valley, slope and mountain ridge. Within each land form, sample plots (1000 m²) were allocated randomly and some of the quantitative characteristics of the oak trees were studied. The statistical data of the landforms were compared using analysis of variance and t- test. The results showed that Lebanon oak is a light demanding tree species which prefers to appear in east and north-east aspects. The altitude range of Lebanon oak varied between 1400 and 2000 meters above sea level, while the optimum range might be found at 1600-1700 m.a.s.l. Soils of the studied stands were shallow with light and heavy texture at surface and deeper layer, respectively. pH varied between 6 and 7. The greatest dimension and growth rate of Lebanon oak was observed at valley landform where the soil was humid and fertile. At best and most suitable sites pure stands were developed, but in other sites mixed stands were developed, including Gall oak (Quercus infectoria). The main regeneration form of the studied oak stands was coppice with standard, containing trees with forked and twisted stems.
