Estimation of feeding carrying capacity of dry habitats for Chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii) in central Iran (Case study: Darreh-Anjir Wildlife Refuge)

A study conducted to determine feeding carrying capacity of Chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii Groves, 1993) habitat in one of the driest areas of its distribution range in central Iran. First, we determined the term of critical season in Drarreh-Anjir Wildlife Refuge. Then, considering to species food preferences in critical season, the amount of production was estimated in suitable habitat using double sampling method. Next, we used allowable measure of exploitation or preference values of every species to estimate the amount of accessible forage in the area. Finally, the feeding carrying capacity of chinkara habitat was estimated by subtracting of competitors proportion and determining of daily requirement of chinkara in the area.
The results showed the capacity of the Darreh-Anjir Wildlife Refuge is 626 chinkaras in the study year. In fact, the overall density of chinkara in the study area can be 2.34 heads in a hundred ha. However, the accessible foods in critical season did not limit the species population growth now, because irregular poaching reduced the numbers of chinkara in the study seriously. Considering to the point estimation of chinkara density, Darreh-Anjir area is one of the driest habitats of the species in the world. Based on the results, the Hammada salicornica is the maximum available species in chinkara menu in the study area. So, prevention of Camel grazing for keeping the potential of this species production was suggested in the refuge in all season.