Effect of Tamarix Shrub Tamarix Ramosissima Ledeb. on Soil Physiochemical Properties and Carbon Sequestration of Desert Soils

In arid and semi-arid regions, trees have a great influence on distribution of soil nutrient elements and biochemical processes. Considering the capabilities of Tamarix ramosissimia Ledebshrub in affecting soil properties, identification and management of this shrub will be important in deserts of Iran. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Tamarix shrub on soil physical and chemical properties and carbon sequestration in Farokhabad desert region of Dehloran. In order to study soil characteristics, soil sampling carried out from topsoil 0-5 cm and subsoil 5-20 cm under canopy cover and open area by using systematic randomized method. In this research, soil chemical parameters including organic matter percentage, carbon sequestration amount, pH,EC,N,P,K, CEC, CaCO3, and CaSO4 and soil physical parameters including texture, BD، BP,، FC, PWP, andSP were measured. Results showed that there was significant difference at 1% probability level among soil properties such as soil carbon sequestration, organic matter, pH, EC, CEC, N concentration and CaSO4 percentage between under canopy and open area and even in different soil depths. The results of stepwise regression showed that pH, silt and K are one of the most important components affecting the amount of carbon sequestration in the soil under the canopy of Tamarix shrub. In general, climate condition of the study area is suitable for Tamarix shrub which has a positive effect on soil properties by increasing organic matter and improvement of soil structure. As well as, Tamarix shrub increased soil fertility by increasing nutrient elements of soil, hence protection and reclamation of this species is essential for Ilam province.