Seed source and parental tree effects on germination rate and seedling growth of Acer monspessulanum (case study: Chenarnaz forest in Southern of Yazd province)

To investigate possible effects of seed source and genotypes on germination rate and several other morphological traits on seedlings of Acer monspessulanum subsp cinerasens, seeds were collected on 20 genotypes of two populations (2400 and 2700 meters above sea level) of the species of Chenarnaz forest, located in South part of Yazd province, Iran. Seeds were planted in a research greenhouse at Yazd University based on a completely randomized design with three replications. Analysis of variance showed that effect of altitudes of seed sources on collar diameter, root length and fresh weight of seedling root were statistically significant, so that, collar diameter and root length of seedling from the studied plant population at 2700 meters above sea level, were better than that of the second plant population. Although according to the studied characteristics of the population at altitude of 2700 meters the studied population was identified as a suitable plant population for seed collecting, seedling production, reforestation and subsequently recovery of degraded areas, but much less percentage of the stands at the altitude of 2400 meters could also be considered in order to maintain genetic diversity. Thus, on both plant populations, the best trees were identified in terms of the studied traits value. It is recommended that special attention be paid on the mentioned trees for seed collecting.