Effect of gap area on soil biological and enzymes activity in the beech forests (Case study: district 7, Shenrood, Siyahkal)

Effect of gap area on soil biological and enzymes activity in the beech forests (Case study: district 7, Shenrood, Siyahkal)AbstractCanopy gaps are one of the most important phenomena in forests and play an important role in the dynamics of forests. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of canopy gaps area on soil biological and enzymes activities in beech forests of Siahkal. For this purpose, 18 gaps at 4 classes small (<200 m2), medium (200-300 m2), large (300-400 m2) and very large (>400 m2) were selected. Mixed samples of 0-20 cm soil depth were taken in each canopy gap. Frequency of bacterial and fungus population for measuring of soil biological activities were counted. Acid-phosphatase and dehydrogenase activity was assessed by reaction with substrate and photometrical method. ANOVA and Duncan tests were used to analyze of data. The results showed that the highest of acid-phosphatase and dehydrogenase activities observed in 300-400 m2 class, but there was a significant difference between of Acid-phosphatase activity in different canopy gaps of area. The results showed that the highest of bacterial and fungus population observed in <200 and >400 m2 classes and there was a significant difference between of bacterial and fungus population in different areas of gaps. In general, the results of study revealed that the gaps had a significant effect on soil enzyme and biological activities and indicates the important role of gaps within forest ecosystems.