Environmental Factors Affecting the Distribution of Lonicera nummulariifolia Jaub. & Spach in Zagros Forest

The effects of some environmental factors on distribution of Lonicera nummulariifolia were studied in Manesht-Ghalarang protected area in Ilam Province. Vegetation, physiographic characteristics and soil (texture, Ph, EC, SP, Cao, OC, P, N, K and bulk density, depth of 0-30 cm) was investigated in 125 plots. Totally, 166 plant species belong to 121 genus and 44 families were identified in this study area. The families of Asteraceae (21 species), Labiateae (20), Poaceae (15 species), Papilionaceae (13 species) had the highest number of plant species. Multi-variant analysis showed that Lonicera nummulariifolia had positive relationship with organic matter, nitrogen, altitude and formation of Asmary and negative relationship with lime, EC, clay and silt. Also, Amygdalus elaeagnifolia, Cotoneaster luristanica, Daphne mucronata, Rhamnus Pallasii, and Cerasus microcarpa has the most ecological similarity with L. nummulariifolia. The results can be a useful for the development of L. nummulariifolia in areas with similar ecological conditions.