Spatial Pattern Analysis of Halocnemum Strobilaceum (Nebkas) Using G Function (Case Study: Aq-Qala Plain, Golestan Province, Iran)

Understanding of distribution of plants and analyzing their spatial pattern reveal the interactions of plants and environment. Nebka as an indicator phenomenon of plant-sediment interaction, plays an important role in protecting of vegetation and sand stabilization. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the interaction of Nebka and plant based on a field study, measuring the morphometric parameters, and precise point positioning. Therefore, 322 Nebkas and 119 plants were determined in the northern region of Aq-Qala, Golestan province. In order to investigate and determine the spatial pattern and interactions of Nebkas and plants, and impact of soil parameters on their distribution pattern, univariate and bivariate functions including g and mark correlation functions were used. The pair correlation function showed that spatial pattern of plant at distance of less than 23 m was irregular. This means there is no competition between plants at distance of less than 23 m. Furthermore spatial pattern of Nebka was irregular at distance of less than 23 m. Bivariate g function at distances less than 50 m indicated positive correlation between plant and Nebka. Therefore, all plants and Nebkas have a positive impact on formation and distribution of each other. Results of the MCF function with 95% probability showed that soil properties such as EC, pH, OM, SAR, and skewness of Nebka sediments influence the Nebka’s pattern in the study area.