Effective Factors on Regeneration Establishment and Quantitative and Qualitative Characteristics of Pistacia atlantica in Different Physiographic Conditions (Case Study: Khojir National Park)

This research was conducted to investigate regeneration conditions and evaluate quantitative and qualitative characterestics of pistacia atlantica subsp. mutica on different physiographic conditions of South Alborz Mountains. The role of effective factors on establishment of regeneration was also studied. The forest area map prepared, and then probed by systematic random network of statistical method. Within each plot some quantitative parameters consist of number of stands, total height, average diameter of crown canopy and number and height of saplings were recorded. Vegetative form and nursing type of regeneration of pistacia atlantica subsp. mutica were also determined. Also some parameters such as number, crown diameter and height of Amygdalus lycioides as an important accompany species were recorded. Results showed that the most number of stands, height of regeneration, health of leaf and regeneration of Pistacia atlantica are located in Northern side of 1500-1600 height from the sea level. The most height and diameter of Pistacia atlantica and number of regeneration in 1400-1500 height from the sea level were recorded. This study showed that two factors included Amygdalus lycioides species and rock stone are the best factors for nursery of Pistacia atlantica regeneration, also physiographic factors have significant effect on quantitative and qualitative of saplings and trees of Pistacia atlantica. According to these results, in order to protection and maintenance of Pistacia atlantica, especially in enrichment and afforestation projects, the physiographical factors and nursing effect must be noticed carefully.