Evaluation of habitat health in three elevation classes of north Sabalan rangelands

The aim of this study was to assess the rangeland health of North Sabalan in three-elevation classes (less than 1500, 1500 to 2100, and 2100 to 2700 meters), which were the representative of rural, rural-nomad, and nomad rangelands, using the landscape function analysis (LFA) in Ardabil province. For sampling, three 50-meter transects were established in each elevation class according to the uniformity of the habitat and distribution of patches. Using the LFA framework, three characteristics including stability, infiltration and nutrient cycling of soil surface were determined using 11 indicators. Statistical analysis of data was conducted using the LFA method and instructions of Tongway and Hindley in Excel software. The soil stability index for vegetation life forms in the elevation class of 2100 to 2700 m was more than that of the other two elevation classes, with significant difference (P>0.05); however, there was no significant difference between the first and the second class .Comparison of the infiltration and nutrient cycling indices for vegetation life forms in the elevation class of 2100 to 2700 m was also more than those of the other two elevation classes with significant differences (P<0.05). The stability index in the third elevation class (72.35) and in the second class (48.75), the infiltration index in the third elevation class (73.31) and in the first elevation class (15.99), and the nutrient cycling index in the third elevation class (78.75) and in the first elevation class (10.12) had the highest and least values, respectively. Overall, the health condition of the third elevation class was better than the other two classes. By examining the functional characteristics of ecological patches, we can identify the vegetation indicators affecting rangeland health, and then conduct proper management to protect that ecosystem.