Effective factors on density condition of Ferula spp. in two habitats of Zarand, Kerman (Syriz and Reyhanshahr)

The bitter and sweet species, scientifically known as Ferula assa- foetida L. and Ferula alliacea Boiss respectively are perennial herbs from Umbelliferae with considerable economic value. This study evaluates habitat characteristics and factors affecting on habitats of the species in terms of their vegetation density in Kerman province of Zarand city. Habitat characteristics including geographical location, soil physical and chemical properties, annual and seasonal climatic parameters and some anthropogenic factors of the two habitats were analyzed using independent t-test. Comparison of the average annual rainfall in the Reyhanshahr habitat indicates an increase of more than 48 percent equivalent to 118 mm compared to the Syriz habitat. Also, frost days as an effective factor in germination of the species in Reyhanshahr is equal to 81 days per a year and 47% more than in Syriz habitat. The results of seasonal climatic analysis of 17-years showed that precipitation, relative humidity and frost days are significantly different between two habitats mainly in autumn and winter, namely 34%, 11% and 55% are higher in Syriz habitat respectively. Clay, Calcium, Potassium, Calcium carbonate equivalent and Sodium uptake were significantly higher in Syriz than Reihanshar. Number of mines in Rayhanshahr is 4 and 1 in Syriz. Stocking rate is twice as the allowed animal unit in Syriz. In general, the results indicate that climate and edaphic factors have significant impact on decreasing density of Ferula alliacea Boiss in study area.