Investigation on site demand of Almond (Amygdalus scoparia Spach.) in Zagros Forests (Case study: Karebassite of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province)

Abstract

Amygdalus scoparia is one of the most important shrubs of Zagros forests. This species could be used as a pioneer element to rehabilitate destroyed forests, therefore having knowledge of ecological characteristics of Amygdalus scoparia can help forest managers for a proper application of this species. This research was conducted in Karebas region from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province. Firstly, all of the region were surveyed and the sites of Almond were determined in 1:25000 topographic map. Then land unit map were obtained by overlaying altitude, aspect and slope maps. In each work unit, one or two plots (1000m2) were established, overall 58 plots were allocated and site demands, physical and chemical properties of soil and tree quantitative and qualitative characteristics were studied in each plot. Results showed that one of the most important affecting factors in distribution of Almond is geographical aspect, hence this species is appeared in southern aspects. Also altitude is another factor for the presence of Almond; the highest presence of Almond is observed between 1800-1900 m.a.s.l. The highest amount of regeneration of Almond was appeared on southern aspect, 1800-1900 m.a.s.l. and 40-50 % slope. This species is often distributed on alkaline soils with loamy and clay-loamy texture