Ecological, habitat and morphological characteristics of the Ephedra procera C.A.Mey. in the mountain rangelands of Urmia

The survey of the ecological and morphological characteristics of medicinal plants is one of the essential requirements for multipurpose use of rangelands. Accordingly, the ecological and morphological characteristics of Ephedra procera were investigated in the mountain rangelands of Urmia. For this end, regarding to the physical and vegetation characteristics; three habitats representing a wide range of areas of E. procera distribution region were selected. Then, the data inventory was conducted within 30 two square meters plots established on transects along 100-meter with distances of 10 meters apart and the morphological characteristics and amount of forage production were measured. To study the relation between distribution of vegetation and soil characteristics, soil samples were taken with three replications along transects. The results showed that the morphological characteristics of Ephedra and soil physical and chemical properties in study sites; are significantly different among the sites. Analysis of variance linear regression equation between forage production of Ephedra with morphological characteristics indicates a significant relationship between forage production and number of plant shoots. The results of studying the relationships vegetation distribution with environmental factors showed that the influence of environmental variables on vegetation is significant which accordingly the factors such as slope, temperature, aspect, porosity, sand, elevation from sea level, percent of gravel, bulk density and electrical conductivity are of the most important factors affecting the distribution of Ephedra species. The results can be used in planning the protection and restoration practices of Ephedra in natural habitats.