maryam moslehi

The aim of this research was to examine the effects of cement dust emissions on the chemical properties of soil in Acacia tortilis-Hammada salicornica stands located 0 to 2-kilometers away from a cement factory. To this end, during the plant growing season, three 2000-meter transects with 50-meter intervals were established, and soil samples were collected at distances of 0, 500, 1500, and 2000 meters from the cement factory. The samples, taken from a depth of 0-30 cm (in plots measuring 10×10 m²) under the canopy of the tree species Acacia tortilis (Forssk.) Hayne and the rangeland species Hammada salicornica (Moq.) Iljin in Bandar-e-Khamir, Hormozgan province, were transported to the laboratory for chemical analysis and analyzed using two-way ANOVA at the 95% confidence level. The highest electrical conductivity was observed at the zero-distance treatment (6.53 mS/cm). The percentages of organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, available sulfur, and cation exchange capacity at the zero distance, with values of 0.37%, 0.02%, 9.63 mg/L, 22.45 mg/L, and 11.85 cmolc/kg, were significantly lower than those at other distances (P<0.05). The sulfur content and cation exchange capacity were 22.94 mg/L and 13.42 cmolc/kg for A. tortilis, and 23.65 mg/L and 11.71 cmolc/kg for H. salicornica (P<0.05). The distance × species interaction showed that organic carbon and nitrogen varied at different distances for each species, such that at greater distances, the species had higher levels of organic carbon and nitrogen compared to locations closer to the cement factory (P<0.05).

In order to reduce water consumption and producing suitable seedlings, we need have a perfect knowledge of grey mangrove habitat condition in two vegetative periods and their growth replies in the nursery. So, the aim of this study was to investigate the germination percentage and grey mangrove replies to the different levels of light, irrigation and contracted effects of them in two 3-month growth periods in the nursery.

Propagules were collected from 30 healthy mother trees in the summer of 2022 and cultivated in five groups (3 pots in every group) of plastic pots in the coastal nursery (Factorial statistical design). We carried out irrigation regimes (2 times a day, once a day, every other day and every second day) and light treatments in five levels of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% on propagules. In order to investigate vegetative replies of seedling to light and irrigation in the two 3-month periods (measurements), collar diameter, height and leaf number (after becoming bi-foliate), were measured using digital caliper and ruler. Growth amounts were calculated from the differences of collar diameter and height in two 3-month periods. Germination percentage was recorded at the initial growth and also leaf area of 6-month seedlings were measured in all treatments and were analyzed using GLM at the level of 95%.

According to the results, germination percentage was higher in two times and daily irrigation as well as 50% and 75% light treatments than that of in the others (P≤0.05). In two times irrigation, leaf area with amount of 22.83 cm2 had a significant difference than the other treatments (P≥0.05). leaf area had the highest amounts in 50%, 0 and 75% light treatments (P≤0.05). All vegetative characteristics in the first 3- month and second 3-month measurement had a different reply to the light and irrigation significantly. Also, all the growth properties of seedling, except for leaf number, were higher in the first 3-month measurement that those of in the second 3-month measurement. In the second 3-month measurement, there were lower differences among treatments. According to the results, in the first 3-month measurement, diameter growth had the highest amount in the irrigation regime of two times a day (0.41 mm), once a day (0.36 mm) and light level of 50% (0.32 mm) while in the second 3-month measurement, diameter growth differences decreased in 50, 25 and 75% light treatment and were in the same groups. Also, in the first 3-month measurement, height growth had the highest amount in the twice a day irrigation treatment with the value of 4.75 cm decreased in the second 3-month measurement (2.41 cm) that was at the same group along with once-a-day irrigation regime (2.21 cm). Height growth in the first 3-monthe measurement had the highest amount at 50% light (4.48cm) and 75% (4.34 cm) light treatment changed in the second 3-month measurement. Unlike the other vegetative characteristics, leaf number was lower in the first 3-month than that of in the second 3-month.

According to the results, grey mangrove seedlings are more sensitive to the light and irrigation at the first 3-month growth and exhibit stronger replies to them. So, providing the suitable irrigation and shade is so important in the initial growth of grey mangrove seedling in the nursery. We must provide 50% light and twice a day irrigation at the first 3-month for grey mangrove seedling in order to grow suitable while we can increase light intensity and also irrigation cycle.

Soil macrofauna plays a critical role in the development of soil structure and provides a variety of ecological functions. The present study aims to compare the biological index of soil macrofauna in broadleaved, coniferous, and mixed stands during growing and resting seasons in Geno protected area, Hormozgan Province, Iran. After a half-hectare broadleaved stand, a half-hectare coniferous stand, and a half-hectare broadleaf-coniferous (mixed) stand in the Geno protected area were selected to identify the soil macrofauna and measure the physical, chemical, and soil properties and their relationship with soil macrofauna, 10 soil samples were randomly collected from different soil depths including under the canopy to a depth of 15 cm, during the growing and resting seasons. The macrofauna were isolated from the soil samples and were then submitted to a laboratory for chemical analysis. Data were analyzed using SPSS26 software. Richness, evenness, and biodiversity indices were compared using t-test, and then ANOVA and Duncan tests were used to compare physical and chemical properties of macrofauna soil in growing and resting seasons. The results showed a significant difference biological index of macrofauna in broadleaved, coniferous, and mixed stands in the growing and resting seasons.Tperesence of macrofauna the soil, their great diversity and activity as one of the key factors in the supply of nutrients and soil fertility can play a constructive role in the health of ecosystems and maintaining its balance

Fire is one of the climatic crises and threats to the habitats of arid and semi-arid regions, and the reduction of ecological capacity intensifies the process of desertification of these ecosystems. The reaction of species in different habitats to fire is different. Therefore, the present study investigates the effect of fire on soil properties of T. aphylla in Niatek stands, Sistan and Baluchistan province, Iran.

The statistical design was completely randomized design and sampling was done as a sample line. After surveying in the area, the stands where the fire period had passed for 10 years and control stand were selected. In each stand, area (100 × 100 m) was determined on the sides of the square and the approximate distance of 50 meters was set up from the linear sides. Then, plots with (5 × 5 m) were determined at approximately 50 m from each other (three plots on each side as a transect and 9 plots in total). After setting up the plot, 5 soil samples were collected from the four corners and the center of the plot from a depth of 0-30 cm in the month of February, and 5 samples were combined and one composite sample was obtained and were transferred to the laboratory for laboratory analysis to determine the physical properties (moisture, specific gravity,) and chemical properties (sodium, Exchangeable potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen, organic matterو electrical conductivity and acidity) were determined. The experiment and statistical analysis in the physicochemical part of the soil was done using the t-test and the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test.

According to the results, the number of 93 and 56 trees per hectare, 11 and 25 saplings under one meter height, 2 and 30% coppice trees were observed in the control and burnt stands, respectively. Examining the physical characteristics of the soil indicated a decrease in soil moisture due to fire compared to the control, and on the other hand, an increase in bulk density in the burned stand. Also, the examination of soil-chemical properties showed that the percentage of soil nitrogen, absorbable phosphorus, exchangeable potassium and soil organic carbon in the control stand was higher than the burned stand (P≤0.05). In this study, there was no significant difference in the acidity variable between the two plots of burned and control (P≥0.05). But the electrical conductivity in the burned stand was higher than that of the control stand (P≤0.05).

According to the results, fire leads to density and regeneration changes in vegetation as well as soil physicochemical properties. Although, 10 years have passed since the fire in Thamarix aphylla Ecosystems, it could not do the necessary reconstruction and reach the edaphic and vegetation balance.

This study aimed to introduce and generate a distribution map of mesquite (Prosopis juliflora) across the Sahara-Sindhian region of Hormozgan province. Mesquite distribution was determined in three stages: Collecting information from the General Department of Natural Resources and Watershed Management of Hormozgan Province, conducting field visits, and digitizing polygons of mesquite distribution for mapping. During the field surveys, the geographical coordinates of the mesquite's natural presence and afforestation areas were recorded based on the elevation range. This plays a significant role in its distribution. The boundaries were identified on Google Earth images as polygons, and the area was calculated using ArcGIS Pro software. In Hormozgan province (Beshagard, Hajiabad, and Bastak), it is found as a single tree or scattered at low altitudes. Mesquite's total area of afforestation and natural forest (canopy cover higher than 5%) is 19275.34 and 18883.21 ha, respectively, accounting for 0.56 of the province's area. Also, mesquite is distributed as a single tree (canopy area lower than 5%) in 48.64 percent of Hormozgan province. The largest afforestation area for mesquite is in Jask City (for stabilizing flowing sand). Mesquite is naturally found in Jask, Sirik, Minab, Banda Abbas, Parisian, Khamir, Bander-e-Lengeh, and Gheshm, respectively. Vast mesquite areas in this province indicate favorable conditions for species regeneration and growth. According to the easy regeneration and fast distribution of P. juliflora in Hormozgan province, it is suggested that native species be used in afforestation.

In the south of the country, due to the harsh habitat conditions and the lack of natural forests compared to other regions of the country, the issue of forest plantation is of particular importance. Considering the severe decrease in soil moisture due to the decrease of rain in recent years, the outflow of runoff during the growing season and the inappropriate distribution of rainfall in the southern and dry regions of Iran, the use of catchment systems can be an important factor in the establishment and vegetative growth of seedlings in the dry areas of southern Iran. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of different drainage systems along with natural mulch on the vegetative characteristics of P. aphylla seedlings.

For this purpose, P. aphylla seedling in two levels of mulch (with organic mulch and no mulch) and water harvesting system in four levels (crescent, pitting, negarim system and control), in block randomized design as split plots were designed in the field (120 seedlings = (5 repetitions) number of seedlings × (2) mulch area × (4) number of systems × (3) repetition or number of blocks). Humidity was measured 24 hours after each rainfall over three years. Vegetative characteristics (viability, canopy length, canopy area, collar diameter growth and height growth) and vigority of all seedlings were also measured and analyzed using GLM test.

The results showed that the percentage of survival and canopy area of P. aphylla species was the highest with 100% and 1282.74 square centimeters respectively in pitting and crescent systems. The highest percentage of soil moisture with 22.14% was obtained in the negarim system. In general, regardless of the type of system, the percentage of soil moisture in the mulch treatment (21.66%) was higher than the no-mulch treatment (16.14%). The results of interaction effects showed that the canopy area and the growth height in the mulching system have the highest values of 1920.68 cm2 and 48.92 cm in the pitting system.

The results of the present research indicate the optimal performance of different methods of storing precipitation in collecting, storing and maintaining moisture in the Dehgin region, which gradually provides moisture to the plant gradually. After 3 years, results showed that the growth of P. aphylla seedling was better in water catchments especially in pitting system. Also seedling growth was better in water catchments that used organic mulch . Organic mulch is an effective factor which protects soil moisture in the root area. According to different performances of investigated factors, suggest that pitting system with organic mulch and native species should be used in Dehgin and habitats like that in the South of Iran.

The production of seedlings with no stress is the first step in the nursery. Hence, the effects of pericarp removal, irrigation treatments, light, and their interaction on the physiological characteristics of grey mangrove seedlings were investigated in the nursery (Hormozgan province- Sirik Port). The aim of this study was to investigate the content of chlorophyll (a and b) and carotenoids in the leaves of grey mangrove seedlings using pericarp removal treatments (manual, fresh water, 50% seawater, 100% seawater), regular irrigations (twice a day, once a day, every other day, and every two days), and light intensities (100, 75, 50, 25, and zero percent). The analysis was performed using the GLM test. Based on the results, applying different treatments of pericarp removal, irrigation, and light treatments led to significant changes in physiological parameters (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids) (p<0.01). Removing the pericarp using fresh water and 50% seawater, irrigation regimes (twice a day and once a day), and light intensities (50 and 75%) caused the highest amount of chlorophyll content in seedlings. Furthermore, the highest amounts of carotenoids were observed in the 100% seawater treatment for pericarp removal, absence of light (0% light), and every two days irrigation treatment. In addition, the interaction effects (light × pericarp) indicated that carotenoids had the highest amount in the absence of light and pericarp removal using 100% seawater. Additionally, grey mangrove seedlings under moderate light, pericarp removal using 50% seawater, and once or twice a day irrigation treatments provide appropriate conditions for their activities. Therefore, it is recommended to use the above results in the production of grey mangrove seedlings in the nursery.

Mangroves are one of the most important and effective cover of mandabi ecosystems, which are evergreen and resistant to salinity and grow in the coastal areas of tropical and subtropical regions, so that they can adapt to the conditions like high salinity, wind, anaerobic soil environment and tides with high height. Despite the many environmental services, these forests are considered as threatened ecosystems in tropical and subtropical regions, which are very vulnerable to human activities and climate changes and are exposed to a threat. During the recent centuries, the destruction of mangrove habitats as a result of coastal development, pollution, aquaculture, logging and exploitation and fuel supply has been done more intensively and has led to a drastic reduction in the area of the mangrove ecosystem. One of the most important human threats in the mangrove forests of Hormozgan province is especially the cutting of mangroves by local people in order to raise livestock. The percentage of importance of cutting in Hormozgan is much higher than other threats, so the purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of different intensities of cutting on the reproductive and growth characteristics of forest stand.

The location of the project was (an area 180 meters long along the coast and the length of the mangrove forest, along the highest and lowest tide levels). This design was carried out in a completely randomized design with 4 treatments and 10 replications in plots 40 meters long and 25 meters wide along the slope of coastal lands. In each plot along its diameter, 10 mangrove trees whose crown diameter was more than 2 meters were selected and cutting treatments with percentages (zero, 10, 20 and 30%) were implemented on the sample trees (40 sample trees). It is worth mentioning that the diameter at a height of 30 cm and the height of the sample trees, the reproduction status around the sample trees, the diameter and height of the surrounding trees, the sample trees before cutting and 5 years after cutting were measured and it was compared using one-way analysis of variance.

The results showed that the height and diameter growth rate of the sample trees was the highest in the control treatment with values of 0.45 meters and 2.37 centimeters, and significantly more than the 20% treatment (0.23 meters and 0.94 cm) and 30% treatment (0.17 meters and 0.52 cm). Also, the reproduction rate around the sample trees was significantly reduced by cutting. The reproduction rate was the highest in the control treatment with 0.093 seedlings per square meter, while the lowest value (0.031 seedlings per square meter) was observed in the 30% cutting treatment. It is worth mentioning that 10, 20 and 30% cutting was observed in the control treatments, respectively, with the number of 0, 3, 5 and 8 diebacked seedlings≤ 5 cm, during 5 years. In examining the effect of cutting on the growth of trees around the sample tree, no significant effect was observed.

Overall, the results of this research showed that grey mangrove trees are very sensitive to human intervention and cutting and react strongly. This reaction was shown in the field of the habitat in the form of a decrease in vegetative characteristics and seedling production around the cut trees.

The aim of this study was to investigate changes process of vegetative characteristics of mangrove seedlings over time and determination of chlorophyll content in different concentrations of desalination sewage. After collecting propagules from 30 healthy mother trees and planting them, propagules were irrigated with water treatments of 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 10 and 20% concentration of desalination sewage. Then vegetative characteristics of seedlings were measured every two weeks in different treatments and analyzed using repeated measure model. The amount of chlorophyll a and b were measured by Arnon method and compared using ANOVA. The results showed that changes in height growth, length and radial growth of leaf of mangrove seedlings had significant differences over time. Gradient of height growth and length growth of leaf was sharp at the beginning and then trend increased gradually. Radial leaf growth was slowly increasing with increasing time and was almost zero at the end of the period. The average of height growth, length and radial growth of leaf decreased at high amount of concentration of desalination sewage. The amount of chlorophyll a (5.37mg/g), b (1.30 mg/g) and total chlorophyll (6.67 mg/g) were the highest in the 0% treatment. According to the results, growth slows down over time with increasing age, and at high concentrations, this decline becomes more intense. Therefore, it was recommended that suitable management programs should be used in using of desalination set and sewage removing in order to minimize mangrove forest damages.

Allelopathy is the interaction between plants that stimulates or inhibits the growth and germination of other species. Non-native species of (Prosopis juliflora (SW.) DC) is one of the species known as invasive species with allelopathic effects that can inhibit the growth and growth of species by producing allopathic compounds such as phenols, alkaloids into the environment. Two important species of Hormoozgan province are Acacia oerfota and Acacia tortilis which P.juliflora was observed with them in the natural forests, Therefore, the correct selection of tree species in forest plantation should be done with caution in order to inhibit negative effects on native species. The aim of this study was to investigate the allelopathic effects of different organs of p. juliflora on germinatin, radicle and plumule length of Ac. tortilis and A. oerfota.

For this purpose, the organs (root, bark and leaf) of P.juliflora were collected and different extract concentration (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8%) were prepared were added on A.tortilis and A. oerfota (4 replications, n=60) in growth chamber, and after recording germination, the plumule and radicle length were meausered after 30 days. Factorial experiment was performed through completely randomized design and was analyzed by two-way variance analyses.

Results showed that the lowest gemination percentage in A.tortilis was observed at 8% concentration with the amount of 16.11%. The plumule length of A. tortilis and A. oerfota in aquatic extraction of leaves (1.73 and 3.9 cm) was significantly lower than other organs. Also, the plumule length of A. tortilis (3.58 cm) and A. oerfota (5 cm) had the highest amounts in control. The interaction effects of organ × concentration showed that plumule and radicle length in A.tortilis and A. oerfota had the significant differences. The interactions of organ × concentration on radicle and plumule length in A.tortilis and A. oerfota species were also significantly different. The radicle and plumule length of A. tortilis and A. oerfota in leaf organ with values of 1.25, 1.73 cm and 1.98 and 3.9 cm were significantly less than bark and roots, respectively.

The results showed that there were inhibitory effects of aqueous extract of Prosopis juliflora root, bark and leaves on the germination percentage, root length and stem length of two important species of Acacia tortilis and Acacia oerfota in laboratory condition. Among the three studied organs, the leaf organ had the most inhibitory effects, which due to the high volume of litter under the canopy of this species in the environment and the entry of toxic compounds into the surface soil due to decomposition, prevents the growth of Acacia tortilis and Acacia oerfota that P. juliflora is seen with these species and overcome on them. Also, the root had the lowest inhibitory In according to the results, P.juliflora has allelopathic effects on native species. Therefore, it is recommended to choose non-native species for afforestation more carefully and using native species for reforestation and afforestation in the south fragile ecosystem of Iran is more suitable option.

The leaching from the surface of vegetation resulting from the complex relationship of soil and vegetation is an important part of the nutrition cycle that controls the ability of plants to access elements or the release of food from the ecosystem along with the decomposition process. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the importance of trees leaching in the nutrient cycle (base cations) and introduce it as a vital nutrient source for improving soil fertility and sustainability of forest ecosystems.

This study is a review on published studies, a library and a comprehensive review of the literature, nationally and internationally.  

Leaching of nutrients from the canopy and forest floor with rapid absorption is an important factor of soil fertility and sustainability of ecosystems that should be considered in the forest management. Forest management and forest cover influence the nutrient quality and access in the soil and plants by erosion, litter quality, organic matter and nutrient cycling. For the forest management plan and marking, cut intensity, thinning and lightening intensity, additional information about the status and leaching intensity is required in any area to prevent the imbalance of the ecosystem with a comprehensive plan.

In fact, with sufficient information on the leaching function of different species and using in management, we can determine the correct combination in forestry and silviculture operations associated with soil fertility protection and increase of production potential.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is one of the most common problems in Intensive Care Units (ICU). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between clinical and demographic characteristics with lower extremity DVT in patients admitted to ICU.

The present study is a retrospective case-control study that was performed on 504 patients admitted to the ICUs of Al-Zahra Hospital in Isfahan during 2014-2019. Samples were easily included in the case group (89) and in the control group (415), randomly. Data were collected using a two-part questionnaire of demographic and clinical characteristics, then descriptive and analytical statistical tests such as two-sample independent t-test and if necessary Mann-Whitney were used and were eventually analyzed with SPSS version 21.

The results showed that the mean age of participants was about 53 years, although the mean age in the case group was higher than the control group (p=0.004), but after controlling sex and underlying diseases, had no effect on thrombosis (0.075). The chance of developing thrombosis in men was 1.7 times higher than women (p=0.029). The pao2 / fio2 index in patients with thrombosis (0.61±0.02) was significantly lower than the control group (5.5±2.1) (p<0.0001). After controlling for the effect of age and sex, the chance of thrombosis in patients with hypertension, diabetes, pulmonary embolism and previous history of thrombosis (p<0.0001), 2.6 (p<0.0001), respectively, 3.3 (p=0.006), 1/2 (p<0.0001) 8.1 (p<0.0001) was 36.3. Inactivity with a chance of 29.9 (p=0.0001) was the most important risk factor in ICU for thrombosis.

The results of this study show that having certain characteristics and having some underlying diseases due to which patients are admitted to special wards, increases the chance of developing DVT. Therefore, nurses can pay more attention to them in preventive planning and reducing their incidence.

Mangrove forests of Iran; like anywhere else; are ecologically sensitive areas and exposed to a wide range of anthropogenic threats. Considering the ecological importance of Khor-e-Azini wetland as the only Rizophora mucronata (Lam) habitat in Iran and also due to the lack of information on heavy metals pollution in this habitat, relevant investigation is of utmost importance for their better management. Hence, the aim of this study were to investigate the concentration of heavy metals in sediments and vegetative organs of Avicennia marina (Forssk) Vierh and R. mucronata and compare their concentrations with international standards to reveal the contamination status of this habitat. The ultimate goal was to provide information for pollution control at the source and more efficiently protect these sensitive ecosystems.

After a reconnaissance visit to the mangrove habitat, a six-hectare stand composed of A. marina and R. mucronata was selected and sampling was conducted using line sampling method. In the selected stand, three 300-meter transects, 100 meters apart from each other, were formed. Also six plots (20×20 m2) were selected along transects at equal distances. To collect samples, 10 plots from among the 18 plots were selected in a complete random manner. Then, 5 to 10 trees higher than three meters were selected randomly for sampling of sediment, root and leaf of mangrove trees. Heavy metals concentrations were measured using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Also, the mean concentrations of heavy metals in sediments, roots and leaf of A. marina and R. mucronata were analyzed using Independent Sample T-test.

The mean concentrations of heavy metals in sediments and organs of A. marina and R. mucronata showed no significant differences for Ni and Zn in sediments, roots and leaves of the two species, but the concentration of Cu in sediments (66.60; 39.91 µg/g), roots (70.99; 33.70 µg/g) and leaf (72.51; 20.85 µg/g) in the two species was significantly different at confidence level 95%. Also, comparison of concentration of Zn, Cu and Ni in sediment samples of A.marina and R. mucronata with international and national standards showed that of Zn was lower than the international standard, but higher than that the standard set for the Persian Gulf sediments. In addition, the concentration of Cu in sediments for the two species was higher than that of the international standard. Compared with the standard of Persian Gulf sediments, Cu concentration in A. marina habitat was much higher and in R. mucronata habitat, somewhat higher than the standard. The concentration of Ni was much higher than the international and national standards.

Our results indicated that the concentration of Ni in the sediments of A.marina and R. mucronata were critically high and that of Cu was in a warning status based on the standard of Persian Gulf sediments. Although no significant differences were detected for Zn and Ni concentrations in sediments and plant organs of A.marina and R. mucronata, Cu concentration in sediments, roots and leaf for the two species was significantly different with values for A.marina being higher than that in R. mucronata.

This study aimed to compare the effects of roots and leaves of Prosopis juliflora (SW) DC at different concentrations on emergence, vigor, radicle, and plumule length of two species of Taverniera spartea (Burm. F.) DC. and Pennisetum divisum (Forssk. Ex JF Gmel.) Henrard in Hormozgan province, Iran. After grounding the leaves and bark of Prosopis juliflora and mixing it with the soil of Prosopis juliflora habitat (0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 g of each organ per kg of soil), 15 seeds of Pennisetum divisum and Taverniera spartea species with four replications were cultivated in the soil, and the desired variables were recorded and analyzed using GLM statistical analysis. The results showed that vigor, radicle, and plumule length of Taverniera spartea species in soil associated with bark was 10.77, 3.47, and 3.63 cm, and in Pennisetum divisum species were 5.7, 4.36, and 4.15 cm that was higher than in the leaves. Also, seed vigor, plumule length in Taverniera spartea species, and seed vigor, radicle, and plumule length in Pennisetum divisum species had the lowest values in 8% treatment. The interaction effects of concentration×organ also showed that the leaf extraction had significant decreasing effects on seed vigor, plumule length in both species, and radicle length in Pennisetum divisum species. Also, the emergence percentage in Pennisetum divisum species (18.33%) was the highest in the control treatment. The results showed that Prosopis juliflora has inhibitory effects on rangeland species, so the selection of this species for afforestation in desert areas should be done more sensitively and the use of native species (Ziziphus spina christi, Prosopis cineraria, and Acacia oerfota) should be prioritized.

Mangrove forests are always exposed to damages caused by various natural and anthropogenic hazards, so planning is necessary to provide appropriate tools to prevent or reduce the effects of these hazards. Therefore, in this study, natural and anthropogenic hazards to mangrove forests in Hormozgan province have been conducted with the aim of identifying and introducing them to management sections in order to reduce risk and prevention of risk factors. The initial list of threats was identified by reviewing internal and external sources and interviews with experts in the area and 34 threat factors were identified. Based on the identified threats, a questionnaire was prepared and its qualitative and quantitative validities were determined. According to relative validity method, 8 criteria (Lopping, reduction of basin environmental water right, oil leakage from vessels, development of ports and offshore structures, coastal erosion, grazing the wandering camels, Changes in precipitation pattern and water salinity pattern) had the least validity. The final list of threats was determined by Delphi method and the weighting of each was done by Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method. Prioritization of threats showed that lopping, oil leakage from vessels and coastal erosion are the most important threats to mangrove forests in Hormozgan Province.

The aim of this study was to investigate the allelopathy effect of Prosopis juliflora species on emergence, vigority, gemole and plumule length of two important forest species in southern Iran, Hormozgan province. For this purpose, in the summer of 2020, 15 seeds of Acacia oerfota and Acacia tortilis were planted in the soil collected under, margin and four meters from the canopy edge of Prosopis juliflora and also in the soil mixed with leaf powder of Prosopis juliflora (0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 gr/kg leaf powder in soil) and irrigated with distilled water and their emergencewas recorded once every two days. Finally, gemole and plumule lengths of germinated seeds were measured and the variables were analyzed using GLM statistical analysis at 95% level. The results showed that the emergence percentage in A. tortilis species (20.74%) was significantly higher than A. oerfota species. The gemole length of A. oerfota species (5.14 cm) was longer than A. tortilis while in the soil mixed with prosopis leaf powder, the gemole length in A. oerfota was lower (0.53 cm) than it in A. tortilis. The length of gemole and Plumule in the open area with values of 5.88 and 4.34 cm was significantly higher than their values in the soil under the crown of Prosopis juliflora. Emergence percentages (17.5%), vigority (13.40) and the length of plumule (4.22 cm) were lower in the soil mixed with prosopis leaf powder than those in control treatment. The interactions of species×soil position on vigority (4.40), gemole and plumule length (3.11 and 2.48 cm) showed that the two variables of gemole and plumule length were affected by the soil collection site and had its lowest value under the canopy which it was observed in prosopis leaf concentration treatments. The results showed that A. oerfota species was strongly influenced by Prosopis juliflora allelopathy, therefore, it is recommended to prioritize afforestation with native species and, if possible, to avoid the plantation of Prosopis juliflora in the southern sensitive ecosystems.

Russian olive, Elaeagnus angustifolia, is used in the treatment of various diseases because of its nutritional and pharmaceutical properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of using various amounts of Russisn olive powder on physicochemical, texture and sensory properties of set-type yoghurt produced from non-fat milk. Five yoghurt samples were manufactured from full-fat milk, non-fat milk and with addition of Russian olive powder in three different amounts of 10, 20 and 30 g/L to non-fat milk. Yoghurt samples were then stored in a refrigerator (4±1°C) for 22 days and their physico-chemical, texture and sensory properties were evaluated during storage. The results showed that using Russian olive powder caused significant changes (p<0.05) in physicochemical, texture and sensory properties of yoghurt samples. With addition of Russian olive powder, acidity, viscosity and water holding capacity decreased significantly in yoghurt samples, while pH and syneresis increased (p<0.05). On the other hand, while acidity and viscosity increased significantly during storage in all samples, pH, syneresis and water holding capacity decreased (p<0.05). In conclusion, using 10 g/L of Russian olive powder had the best physicochemical, texture and sensory result in manufacturing of non-fat yoghurt.

Nitrogen dynamics is one of the factors that may change under silviculture practices. Regarding the importance of total nitrogen content and its seasonal variation, the present research studies these changes in the mixed beech-hornbeam stands located in district one of Shast-Kalateh forest, Golestan province, Iran.

To study the total nitrogen variation in an average altitude of 850 meters and northeast direction with two-stage and middle-aged structure, 20 samples were randomly collected at the depth of 20 cm in four stands (1 ha) as treatments including non-managed stand and 3 managed stands (selection system) in 10 (Parcell 30), 7 (Parcell 33), and 1 (Parcell 31) years rotation from January 2014 to January 2015. The data and seasonal variation were compared by repeated measure design (p≤0.05).

The results showed that there was a significant differences between managed treatments and control (p < 0.05). The highest (61.37 gr kg-1) amount of total nitrogen was observed in control treatment (Parcell 32) while lowest (41.78 gr kg-1) was in managed treatment (Parcell 31). The total nitrogen content in managed treatment (Parcell 30) (4.80 gr kg-1) was close to the control. Also, seasonal comparison of total nitrogen showed significant differences in all treatments. Among all managed and control treatments, summer (4.31, 3.05, 2.4 and 4. 31 gr kg-1) and winter (5.52, 5.96, 4.55 and 4.77 gr kg-1) had the lowest and highest total nitrogen, respectively.

Single tree selection system creates positive changes in above ground section of forest stand, compared to others. It cans also changes in above and below gound sections of forests and cause to reduce total nitrogen in ecosystem in early years. Decreasing in total nitrogen content is not permanent and due to the self-regulation and self-sustainbality of ecosystem, the amount of nitrogen is driven to equilibrium through time. According to the results, single-tree selection system has lead to a decrease in total nitrogen content, therefore, to help restore ecosystem to balance situation, the rotation period should be calculated with respect to the amount of growth, the capacity to restore stand and the habitat to restore the ecosystem to a perfect balance. Regarding the difference of 0.32 gr kg-1 nitrogen in managed treatment (Parcell 30) with 10 year rotation compared to the control treatment, it is advisable to increase the rotation period 3 to 5 years in selection system to improve stand physiognomy (crown cover, etc.) and edaphic conditions.

water is necessary for human, animal and vegetation lives. Therefore, providing sufficient water is an undeniable necessity for sustaining creatures’ lives. Development of water supplies, thus, should occur in such a way as to keep the hydrological balance and biological functions of all ecosystems which is crucial for marginal lands. Precipitation storage is the general name for all different techniques used for collecting runoff and rain water to be saved in the soil profile or tanks and be used for growing trees and crops and developing them in dry lands. The precipitation storage is applied for afforestation in arid and semi-arid regions whose rainfall rates are not enough to sustain a good seedling or tree growth. Precipitation storage can increase the rate of planting trees in drought regions through the collection of rainfall, and runoff enhancement. Therefore, these techniques could compensate for the lack of soil moisture and help overcome good spells in critical growing stages, securing good water for plant when rainfall is erratic. This study, therefore, sought to investigate the effect of different precipitation storage techniques on preserving soil moisture and some growth characteristics of Acacia oerfota (Forssk.) Schweinf seedlings in Paired watershed of Dehgin, Hormozgan province.

Paired watershed of Dehgin is one of the sub watersheds of Esteghlal dam in Minab, Hormozgan province. Having collected Acacia oerfota seeds in the summer of 2018, they were planted in plastic pots. Collar diameter, stem height and quality characteristics of seedlings were measured. Seedlings were then planted with three replications (three blocks) in four treatments (diamond-shape micro catchment, semi-circular bunds, pitting, and control). following four months and five rainfall events, growth and quality characteristics of seedlings were measured in different precipitation storage techniques and the collected data were analyzed, using two-way analyses at the level of 95%. Soil moisture was measured based on different precipitation storage techniques and control, and the extracted data were analyzed by two-way analyses. The relationship between soil moisture, collar diameter and stem height were also measured via Pearson's correlations.

the results of the study indicated that the seedling vitality with the amount of 2.86 was significantly lower in control than it was in different precipitation storage techniques. Collar diameter of seedlings in semi-circular bunds (1.95 mm) was higher than what it was in diamond-shape micro catchment, pitting and control (0.92, 0.88 and 0.89 mm). Height growth in semi-circular bunds with the amount of 10.12 cm was significantly higher than that in control with the amount of 6.2 cm. These significant differences were due to the function of different precipitation storage techniques. Soil moisture percentage in all treatments was reported as being different (p<0.05). The amounts of soil moisture were 13.46%, 11.95%, 11.5% and 10.34% in diamond-shape micro catchment, semi-circular bunds, pitting, and control respectively. It was also found that soil moisture had positive direct effect on collar diameter and seedling height (p<0.01).

Vitality and establishment of tree seedlings depend on soil conditions and available moisture. As rain water is free of salts and other minerals that may harm plants and prevent their growth, it deemed great for plant growth. Considering the fact that rain water percolates into the soil, it forces salt down and away from root zone, allowing roots to grow better and making them tolerate more severe drought. The construction of diamond-shape micro catchments, semi-circular bunds and pitting in the study region, and collection of rain water and runoff led to the increase in soil moisture by improving infiltration rate, and thus facilitated plant growth. On the other hand, as plants require large quantities of water for growth, water was used during photosynthesis to produce carbohydrate as a necessary element for plant growth. Moreover, it is evident that leaves are important organs for photosynthesis and play an important role in survival and growth of plants. As the findings of the current study showed, soil moisture was higher in control method. It could thus be concluded that lower growth in control is due to lower moisture.The results of this study indicated that precipitation storage techniques were highly crucial for the soil moisture storage to improve vegetation in arid and semi-arid areas and increase their growth and vitality. It was also found that soil moisture content and also growth characteristics of drought-tolerant seedlings of Acacia oerfota, were higher in semi-circular bunds than those in control and other precipitation storage methods. These seedlings have suitable shoots and large green leaves without dieback in dry climate of Dehgin, resulted from the rain water and runoff collected through precipitation storage techniques and absorbed by plants. Moreover, among all treatments, semi-circular bunds were the best precipitation storage methods for afforestation and pasture improvement in the studied region.

The aim this study was to investigate effects of Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce and Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC on physiochemical characteristics of soil and compare them with open area in mixed stand of south forest of Iran. For this purpose, we selected 15 p. cineraria and p. juliflora in the mixed forest of Sirik, Hormoazgan province. Then combinative soil samples were randomly collected in four geographical directions (10cm depth) under each tree and open area in spring, 2018 and were transferred to the laboratory in order to be measured pH, soil moisture, organic matter, electric conductivity, calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium. Result sowed that all soil characteristics (except for pH) are higher under tree than those in open area (p<0.05). Also magnesium, organic matter and moisture with the amounts of 72.23 mg/L, 1.32% and 15.00% were highest under p. cineraria crown. Amounts of potassium, sodium and magnesium (239.7, 174.93 and 206.75mg/L) were highest under p.juliflora crown. In addition, EC (2.32 ds/m) increased and pH (7.10) decreased than those in open area significantly. In according to this study, p. cineraria and p. juliflora influence on soil ochemical characteristics (except for pH and EC) positively but totally due to remarkable effect of p. cineraria on key characteristics of soil moisture and organic matter and negative effects of p. juliflora on electrical conductivity increase in sensitive ecosystem of south of Iran, afforestation by native species is preferred than to exotic species.

On the coast of Hormozgan province, there are halophytic grasses distributed in coastal plain, near to the coastline. They are potential forage crops which could be used to reclamation of coastal sandy saline soil deserts. The aim of this study is introducing of suitable methods for seedling production of Halopyrom mucronatum, Aeluropus lagopoides and Sporobolus arabicus as native grasses of coastal sand masses in the eastern part of Hormozgan Province, Iran. The geographical distribution of Halo. mucronatum, Ael.lagopoides and Spo.arabicus was obtained by the help of literature review. In next stage with Referring to the field and collecting stolons and seeds of these species, seedlings were produced from cutting stolons and seeds. After planting, the percentage of produced seedlings was recorded. Using appropriate statistical tests, the best way of reproduction for each of the selected species was introduced. Test treatments were include of soaking in boiling water, soaking in acid gibberellic (1000 ppm) and stolones cuttings. Based on the results, the highest percentage growth of all three species was cutting treatment (91.6%) and the lowest percentage growth were in the control (7.9%) and treatment of gibberellic acid on seeds (0%). So that in the acid gibberellic treatment, no growth was observed. Of the three species, propagation of Spo. arabicus was more successful by stolon (100%) and seed or control method (52.4%). Based on these results, it seems that the best method for producing seedlings of these species is using stolon cuttings with 81 to 100% success.

Nutrient cycles in forests are tightly linked to the hydrological cycle because water acts as the main solvent and transporting agent for nutrient from the aboveground tree canopy to the underlying soil. The aim of this research was to evaluate the monthly and annual changes in chemical properties (calcium, sodium and potassium) of the canopy and litter leaching of hornbeam (Carpinus betulus L.) trees during a year compared with nutrients in rainfall (RF).

This study occurred from January 2012 to February 2013 in a mixed natural stand at the Shastkolate Forest research Station of the University of Gorgan with similar allometric characteristics. For sampling of RF, throughfall (TF) and litterfall (LF) chemistry. RF, TF and LF were sampled on an event basis within a year. The collectors were emptied after each incident rainfall (as soon as rain ceased) and were thoroughly rinsed with deionized water and dried before being replaced. To analyze the chemical content of RF, TF and LF, samples were transported to the laboratory of Gorgan University and stored at 4 ºC. The concentration of sodium (Na+), potassium (K+) and calcium (Ca2+) were determined by flame photometer. In order to compare amount of nutrients in TF and LF with RF and monthly nutrient dynamics of TF and LF, we used t-test analysis and the one way variance analysis.

Results showed that Na+ amount in TF (116.37 kg ha-1year-1), and K+ and Na+ amounts in LF (158.45 and 78.79 kg ha-1year-1), were significantly lower than K+ and Na+ (217.72 and 172.82 kg ha-1year-1) in RF (p<0.05). Also amounts of nutrient leaching of TF and LF in various months were different significantly. The highest leaching amounts of Na+, K+ and Ca2+ were observed for TF, 24.51, 58.30 and 3.14 kg. ha-1, respectively. However highest amounts of Na+ and Ca2+ were measured in October for LF; 19.93 and 4.17 kg. ha-1, respectively. Also the lowest leaching of Na+, K+ and Ca2+ of TF (0.84, 3.22 and 0.15 kg ha-1 respectively) and LF (0.45, 0.52 and 0.03 kg ha-1 respectively) were measured in September.

In this complex process, in crown cation exchange, the absorption tendency of hornbeam crown was higher than its cation diffusion from leaf and branch tissues, so hornbeam crown tend to absorb nutrition from RF to remove its nutrient need. Key words: Crown leaching, litter leaching, monthly dynamics of base cations, hornbeam species.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of density, situation of seedlings in intertidal zone, species and their interaction effects on growth characteristics and survival of seedling in tidal zone. 6-month seedlings of Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. and Rhizophora mucronata (Lam). were transferred to Tasbar firth in Hormozgan province (split split plot in randomized complete block design). Seedlings were planted with 1×1, 2×2 and 3×3 m densities and 10, 20 and 30 m distance planting in tidal zone. Vegetative characteristics and survival rate were investigated every 2 months for a year and analyzed using general linear model at the level of 95% confidence. Result showed, in 20 m planting distance, collar diameter, height, canopy diameter and survival rate of seedlings were highest (4.97 mm, 15.51 cm, 4.78 cm and 43.93% respectively). Also, collar diameter, survival percentage, height, canopy diameter and stem height to stem diameter of grey mangrove were, respectively, 3 mm, 37.81%, 11.01, 4.53 and 24.04 cm, higher than those of red mangrove (p<0.05). According to this study, it is recommended to cultivate grey mangrove in intertidal zone to increase the chances of afforestation success in Hormozgan province.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of throughfall (TF) and litterflow (LF) on oak (Quercus castaneifolia C.A.Mey.) and their monthly changes in the mixed stands located in district one of Shastkolate forest, Golestan province. For this purpose, TF and LF samples were collected after each rainfall (RF) in a one-year period and their content of Na+, K+ and Ca2+ compared with the RF using by T-Test at the 95% of confidence level. Also, monthly variation of cations was investigated using by one way variance analysis. The results showed that the amounts of K+ and Ca2+ leaching in TF (226.61 and 13.86 kg ha-1 year-1) were significantly higher than those in RF (217.72 and 10.97 kg ha-1 year-1). Amounts of Na+ leaching in TF (120.38 kg ha-1 year-1) and LF (108.58 kg ha-1 year-1) were lower than it in RF. Also nutrient leaching of TF and LF in various months were different significantly. The lowest and highest leaching was observed in September and October. The results of this study showed that oak trees have a positive effect on the increase of soluble nutrients in forest soil through TF and LF, because plants are able to absorb soluble nutrients as soon as penetrate in the soil and insert them to their nutrient cycle, so using it correctly in afforestation, can improve the quality of soil nutrients in short time.

Mangrove forests are one of the most beneficial ecosystems that have lost more than 50% of their primary extents. Because of uncontrolled degradation, many countries go beyond standard measures of mangrove forests protection and produce standard seedlings to afforest for higher success rates. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of species, irrigation, and light regimes as well as their interaction on vegetative growth of grey mangrove (Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh.) and red mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata (Lam.)) seedlings in the nursery setting. Seeds of mangrove trees were collected and planted in plastic pots during July and August 2008. Then collar diameter, height, and stem height to stem diameter (h/d) were measured as influenced by species, irrigation regime (every day, every other day, and three days in between) and light condition (shade and light) using a three-way analysis of variance. Results showed that the diameter growth in the red mangrove is more than 0.38 mm than that of the grey mangrove (p < 0.05). Interactive effects of species × light condition showed that diameter growth of grey mangrove and red mangrove seedlings are significantly different in the shade condition. Diameter growth of grey mangrove seedlings was higher in light condition than that of in shade (p < 0.05). In shade, the stem height to stem diameter of seedlings was significantly higher than that of those measured it in light. Furthermore, the stem height to stem diameter as influenced by species × light condition was significantly different between two species and was also higher in shade condition compared with grey mangrove seedling (p < 0.01). The results suggested that light provides more favorable conditions for the grey mangrove seedlings growth, whereas it is not beneficial for the red mangrove seedlings.