Identification of Habitat Types and Their Dominant Plant Species in Qom Province, Iran

Identification and classification of habitats and their related biological and non-biological characteristics is the first and most crucial step in managing the exploitation and conservation of the environment and natural resources. Qom province is located in the central plateau of Iran and has a dry climate according to the Domarten climate classification. The different regions of the province were surveyed in order to identify the various types of habitats and their dominant vegetation. Along with collecting the required information, dominant plant species were also collected and identified. Eight of the ten main habitats in the world were identified in Qom province, with 24 sub-habitats using the EUNIS habitat classification key. These eight habitats are: 1- inland surface water habitat, 2- mire, bog and fen habitat, 3- grassland habitats, 4- heathland and scrub habitat, 5- woodland and forest habitat, 6- inland unvegetated or sparsely vegetated habitat, 7- cultivated agricultural habitat and, 8- constructed and artificial habitat. Qom province mainly includes a desert ecosystem, and this type of ecosystem is very vulnerable and fragile. Considering the fact that the loss of ecosystem services increases the vulnerability of humans, especially in arid areas, therefore recognizing and protecting the primary and secondary habitats as well as microhabitats of the province, with emphasis on native plants, play an influential role in protecting the province's environment.