Spatial pattern of Trees in the Riparian Forests (Case Study: Wildlife Refuge of Karkhe)

Analysis of the spatial pattern is an important element for the optimum management and having knowledge about ecosystem function. This study was conducted to analyze the spatial pattern of trees and shrub in the riparian forest landscape of Karkhe, also for assessment of their spatial variability regarding the distance from the river. The number of trees and shrubs were sampled using 117 plot (20m × 20 m) along parallel transects (perpendicular to the river). The distance between transects was 500 m. The variograms of Populus euphratica and Lycium shawii were spherical. Tamarix sp. and total of them were exponential. All revealed the presence of spatial autocorrelation. The range of influence was 186 m for Tamarix sp., 362 m for Populus euphratica, 749 m for Lycium shawii and 208 for total. The kriging maps showed spatial variability of them. The spatial pattern of species total and Tamarix sp. are similar that was shown in correlation. So Tamarix sp. is a major part of this forest. Populus euphratica is replacing with Lycium shawii. Also the higher distribution is nearby river for all trees and shrub.