Changes of Some Biochemical and Photosynthetic Indices Due to the Gall in Persian Oak Trees (Case study: Forests of Middle Zagros

The formation of gall is one of the various types of vegetarianism, and gall producing insects cause stress in their hosts. The present study aimed to investigate the changes of some biochemical and photosynthetic indices due to the gall in Persian oak trees in Forests of Middle Zagros. Sampling was performed from trees infected by gall and healthy trees in Blouran forests. The results showed that the amount of lignin, proline and anthocyanin were increased significantly in infected trees compared to healthy trees (P≤0.01). Moreover, the indices of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoid content were decreased significantly in infected trees (P≤0.01). According to the results, it can be concluded that the presence of insects producing gall on Quercus branti trees is considered as a pest. The increasing presence of these insects and the consequent changes in trees declare the necessity of the control of the pest and the prevention of the creation of critical spots.