Effect of protection on quantity and quality characteristics of Persian oak (Quercus macranthera C. A. Mey) in Roudbar forests of Guilan province

Quercus macranthera is extended in forest areas of the upper elevations in north of Iran and play an effective role in conserving soil and water infiltration. The biggest problem in the regions is livestock grazing and forest dwellers. The aim of this study was to study effects of protection on the quantity and quality characteristics of Persian oak(Quercus macranthera) in Roudbar forests of Guilan province.

In total, 40 plots of 1000 m2 (20 plots in protected area and 20 plots in unprotected area) were collected using randomized systematic method and grid sampling of 100 × 100 m. In each plot, number and type of tree and shrub species, diameter in breast height, height, crown position and trunk quality were measured. Also, a micro-plot of 100m2 in center of plots was used to calculate regeneration.

The results showed that density of trees, the average of diameter at breast height, total basal area, plant height, volume and regeneration were significantly were higher in protected than unprotected areas. There were no differences in other tree species. Density of barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.), Crataegus microphylla K. Koch and cherry plum (Prunus divaricata) were significantly higher in unprotected than protected area. Also, quality of crown and trunk were better in protected than unprotected area. Study of diameter classes in structure triangle showed that protected area located in irregular section and degraded area located in small-medium diameter section.

As Quercus macranthera trees play an important role in upper parts of the forest, maintaining this valuable species and continuity programs of livestock and human emersion is essential.