Comparison of species diversity of sexual regeneration in tree microhabitats of the Zagros forests (Case study: Baba-Yadegar forests, Kermanshah Province, Iran)

Sexual regeneration is amongst the most important factors that affect the survival and sustainability of forests. It is controlled by the total resources and conditions representing the role of microhabitats in the establishment of the regeneration. Thus, identifying the role of microhabitats on the establishment and diversity of regeneration is of great significance. Therefore, the present study was conducted in a central part of the Zagros region in Baba-Yadegar forests of Dalahoo County, Kermanshah province. A total of 372 5 × 5  plots were established with respect to the tree microhabitats, including Quercus brantii Lindl., Q. infectoria Oliv., Crataegus pontica C. Koch., mixed and open spaces (with no trees) along 7 transects. In each plot, the biological characteristics of the trees were measured together with sexual regeneration and soil litter depth. The results showed that the mean value of DBH was significantly higher for Q. infectoria microhabitat compared to other microhabitats. In addition, the number of sprouts was significantly higher for mixed microhabitat compared to others. The highest species diversity of regeneration was observed in Q. brantii microhabitat. Furthermore, the result of multivariate analysis showed that the species diversity and abundance of trees in the microhabitat were the most important factors in the discrimination among microhabitats with over 83 percent of accuracy. It was concluded that the microhabitats and their characteristics play a major role in the establishment of tree species regeneration, diversity and consequently on the future forest structure that can contribute to the success of the restoration plans in the Zagros forests.