Nutrient allocation on Aerial and underground species of Artemisiaaucheri in different grazing intensities (Case study: rangelands of southern slope of Sabalan)

Livestock grazing is the most common type of rangeland uses that can affect the composition of rangeland vegetation, net primary production, stem to root ratio, and nutrient cycle. This research was conducted to study the impacts of various grazing intensities on nutrient allocation of phosphorus, calcium, sodium, and potassium in aerial and underground biomass of Artemisia aucheri in the summer rangelands on the southeast slope of the Sabalan. In this study, a systematic-random sampling was employed. Three parallel transects of 200 m length were established in each grazing intensity. Then along each transect, one square meter plots with 50 m intervals were established to collect the aerial and underground biomass. Analysis of variance revealed that the allocation of phosphorus and calcium of the aerial organs were significantly affected by different grazing intensities. In addition, sodium and calcium of underground organs were significantly different at 1% level. The results of this research and the effect of different grazing intensities on nutrient allocation could be used in the identification and management of livestock grazing and rangelands.