Some ecological characteristics of Zygophyllum atriplicoides in some semi-arid lands in Isfahan province

Zygophyllum atriplicoides is a native species in Iran and grows in the large part of the country. One of the main habitats of this species is semi-arid regions of Isfahan province. In the present study، three Zygophyllum atriplicoides habitats were identified in Isfahan province. Process of collecting vegetative information was accomplished using staratified random sampling. Statistical analysis were done on laboratory data and field such as comparing mean، simple correlation، regression and ordination. Relationship between soil، climate and physiographic factors with vegetative parameters (Canopy cover، plant density and average height)، were studied. Results showed that all three regional climates، were semi-arid based on Demarton classification method and average precipitation in these areas is 140 mm. The most important factors affecting growth of Zygophyllum atriplicoides includ magnesium، calcium and soil saturation. The most adverse parameters are sodium، sodium absorption ratio، exchangeable sodium percentage، lime and gypsum. Altitude shows a direct relation with the average height of Zygophyllum atriplicoides.