Performance of oak (Quercus castaneifolia) provenances for seed collection in the west of Guilan Province, North of Iran

Genetic variation within population as a result of geographical variation is one of the important factors in forest tree improvement. Therefore, investigation of genetic variation rate and its physiological adaptability is necessary for each species used in forest plantation. Quercus castaneifolia is one of the valuable forest species in Northern Iran that are exposed to danger because of inclement utilization severely and for knowing this, provenance test is a ensure practice. For this study, seeds of Quercus castaneifolia from nine regions in the west of Guilan province were used and planted as randomized complete block design in natural resources department of province Guilan. Growth characteristics (height and diameter at breast), survival and leaf morphological features of provenances were measured. Result of ANOVA showed that there were no significant differences between provenances in mentioned parameter (p > 0.01). So, there are no restrictions for selecting the seed collection areas in elevation ranging from 100 to 600 m a.s.l for planation in lowlands in Guilan province provided that selection of suitable and high quality individuals for seedling production and afforestation.