Mohammad Hosein Sadeghzadeh Hallaj | Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands (original) (raw)

Papers by Mohammad Hosein Sadeghzadeh Hallaj

Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research, 2021

Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as ... more Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as part of a general process, help to establish and stabilize the structure of the Hyrcanian forests and the dynamism of its society. This study seeks to identify possible differences in the gap characteristics in the two managed and intact compartments. For this purpose, compartments No. 114 (intact) and No. 115 (managed) from district one of Livan-Banafshtapeh forestry plan in Golestan province of Iran were selected to compare some gap characteristics (gap fraction, distribution of gap sizes, number of gaps per hectare and status of gapmaker trees). In these compartments, all gaps>100 m2 caused by mortality of at least one tree with remnants of the gapmaker or detectable tree stumps, were identified and recorded. The results showed that the gap fraction in the intact and managed compartments was 10.7% and 6.3%, respectively. The average number of gaps varied from 1.4 ha-1 in the managed to 2.9 ha-1 in the intact compartment. The spatial pattern of gaps was randomly spaced up to a distance of 30 (managed) and 40 (intact) meters and then reached the cluster pattern. The differences between the characteristics in the two compartments were not statistically significant and management did not have a significant effect on these variables. However, no significant differences between the two compartments were due to the low harvest intensity in the managed compartment. The biodiversity of Hyrcanian forests must always be taken into account so that it is not endangered by mismanagement; otherwise irreparable effects on the ecosystem of the managed compartment may occur.

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2017

This investigation was carried out in Albroz research station complex (Karaj, Iran) during 2014 s... more This investigation was carried out in Albroz research station complex (Karaj, Iran) during 2014 summer. Mount Atlas mustic (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) seedlings were treated by drought (moderate, sever and without drought stress) and shading (low, moderate and without shade) factors in a split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design. After one month, physiological characteristics of leaves including RWC, soluble sugars, proline and pigments content, catalase enzyme activity and ion leakage were studied. Drought stress caused severe decrease in RWC and a, b and total chlorophyll contents. In contrast, shade by ameliorating drought stress significantly increased these parameters. Drought induced tolerance mechanisms in saplings and increased proline and carotenoid content while shade decreased these parameters significantly as well as a to b chlorophyll ratio. Interaction of drought and shade was significant for a chlorophyll and catalase activity, suggested that, d...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2017

This research was carried out in Sirachal Research Station in order to identify the best method f... more This research was carried out in Sirachal Research Station in order to identify the best method for Greek juniper (Juniperus excelsa M. B.) afforestation as one of the most important forest species in Iran. Three year-old juniper saplings were transported to Sirachal and were planted in a Split-Plot Randomized Block Design with water harvesting (in 5 treatments including using organs of native plants and shrubs at the bottom of pits, using 1×1 m plastic film at the surface of pits, using Aquasorb polymers mixed with the pits soil, semi-circular bonds and control) as main factor and shading (in 2 level of using tree sprouts as artificial shading and control) as secondary factor in 3 replication and 16 saplings per replication. Measured variables were survival, collar diameter, height, and crown area and sapling vitality at the end of growing season of 2015 and 2016. Results showed that rainwater harvesting had significant effect on survival juniper saplings for both 2014 and 2015 yea...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2016

A study on the impacts of soil humidity and artificial shading on growth, biomass production and ... more A study on the impacts of soil humidity and artificial shading on growth, biomass production and its allocation to different organs of wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.)saplings was carried out in Alborz research station complex (Karaj, Iran). One year seedlings were treated by soil humidity (20, 50 and 100 percent of field capacity) and shading (100, 70 and 50 percent of full sunlight) factors in a split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design from June to December 2014. Results showed significant impact of oil humidity on height, collar diameter, fresh and dry biomass of leaves and stem as well as on total fresh biomass. Shade significantly decreased height, root and total dry biomass and root to shoot fresh biomass ratio. Moreover, wild pistachio saplings with different soil humidity treatments show different responses to shade. In particular, shade significantly decreases height, fresh leaves biomass and R/S fresh biomass ratio for well-irrigated sapli...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2016

Identifying regeneration characteristics is a decisive prerequisite in forest stands management. ... more Identifying regeneration characteristics is a decisive prerequisite in forest stands management. Therefore, the objective of this research was to 1) present the most appropriate tree species for reforestation within stand gaps and 2) study the effect of relative light intensity on regeneration characteristics. Quantitative characteristics were measured in 10 gaps at district one of Loveh forest in Golestan province. Results showed differing frequencies of species depending on gap positions and relative light intensities. Except checker (Sorbus torminalis) regenerations, no significant difference was observed between mean of spring shoot length within gap positions. Annual height growth of checker was maximum for 40% relative light intensity, while the annual diameter growth of hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) and wild cherry (Prunus avium) were maximum for relative light intensity ranging between 30 and 40%, respectively. No significant difference for relative light intensities was obser...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2017

The Juniperus habitat has the second most natural distribution in Iran after the pistachio. The h... more The Juniperus habitat has the second most natural distribution in Iran after the pistachio. The habitat area of Junipers has decreased due to its low rate of natural regeneration which makes the rehabilitation of this species very important. The aim of this study was to evaluate the maternal treemorphology and irrigation on survival and growth parameters of Greek juniper (J. excelsa M. B.) in Sirachal research station in a four years period. Twenty produced seedlings from three different maternal treemorphology including A (cylindrical), B (non-cylindrical) and C (high production of seed) were planted in Sirachal research station as complete random blocks in split plots with three replications in 2010. Seedlings were irrigated every fifteen, thirty and forty days in the first year. Controls were not irrigated. Statistical analysis showed that in the first year, the effect of irrigation was significant on growth parameters including current diameter growth, current height growth and ...

Salt cedar (Tamarix aphylla L. or Tamarix articulata Vahl.) is a rapid growth and salt tolerance ... more Salt cedar (Tamarix aphylla L. or Tamarix articulata Vahl.) is a rapid growth and salt tolerance species which has been considered as suitable tree for wood production in arid and semi-arid lands of southern Iran in addition to its common usages in desertification and sand fixation programs. In order to study the possibility of development of this tree in saline-alkaline soils of central desert boundaries of Iran, this research was carried out on 6 different population of salt cedar from Sistan va Balouchestan (Khash and Zahak townships), Yazd (Yazd township), Qom (Qom township), Isfahan (Kashan township) and Semnan (Garmsar township) provinces at Garmsar research station of desert in CRBD experimental design. Inventory of seedlings was carried out at beginning and end of 2012 and consisted of sprouting, Survival, number of sprouts, collar diameter of thickest sprout, height and crown vitality parameters. Results showed that in contrast with partial advantages of Garmsar and Qom population, there was no significant difference between populations and all of them showed moderate performance. Considering seedlings growth and survival we can conclude that plantation of this tree as suitable species for wood production in saline-alkaline soils of Iran central desert boundaries is possible and in this framework native populations in this region have more priority.

This research was carried out in parcel 15 of the first district of Arabdagh afforestation plan t... more This research was carried out in parcel 15 of the first district of Arabdagh afforestation plan to study the growth performance of 17- year old Turkish pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) plantations (ca. 63 ha and 2×3 m spacing). Sixty three sample plots were selected as random-systematic design. Within each plots, DBH, Total Height (TH), form factor, natural regeneration, stem form, crown vitality, stem health, mode of branching, stem straightness and crown symmetry were recorded. Computation of Dominant Height (DH), mean height and DBH, Basal Area (BA), height/DBH ratio, Total Volume (TV) and Mean Annual Increment of Volume (MAIV) and analysis of variable correlations were performed. Results showed that Arabdagh plantation had greater DBH and BA (14 vs. 13.7 cm and 27/983 vs. 24 m 2 /ha respectively) and less DH, mean height, TV and MIAV than the good sites of Turkish pine plantations in the country of origin with same age and plantation density which generally located between good and medium site conditions for Turkish pine plantation. Therefore regions with same ecological conditions can be considered as suitable sites for Turkish pine plantation.

The previous study demonstrated that pneumonia is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia... more The previous study demonstrated that pneumonia is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia irrespective of comorbidity, individuals with chronic lung diseases, particu- .

Ecology of Iranian Forests, 2019

Journal of Forest Science, 2018

This study was carried out to evaluate gap characteristics and gapmakers for different developmen... more This study was carried out to evaluate gap characteristics and gapmakers for different development stages of an oriental beech forest in northern Iran. Development stages of 1 ha square-shaped mosaic patches were identified using 100 × 100 m sampling grid and all gaps within these mosaics were recorded. Gap areas were calculated and classified into four classes and gapmakers were counted and classified into 4 decay and 4 diameter classes as well. Results showed that gaps comprised 13.7, 9.1 and 17.6% of the study area in initial, optimal and decay stages, respectively. There was a significant difference between development stages with respect to gap size and the highest amount was observed in decay stage. Medium-sized gaps were the most frequent in all three stages. Frequency distribution of gapmakers varied among development stages. Our findings revealed that 200–500 m² is the most preferable gap size for close-to-nature silvicultural approaches in Hyrcanian ...

Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2022

Forestry: An International Journal of Forest Research

Simplified forest structures following even-age management have been associated with the loss of ... more Simplified forest structures following even-age management have been associated with the loss of biodiversity, which may be avoided through disturbance-inspired silviculture. Here, we ask how much do gap characteristics in a managed old-growth differ from those in unmanaged old-growth subject only to natural dynamics? In this study, we compared important characteristics of gaps (e.g. canopy gap fraction, distribution of gap sizes) and gapmakers (e.g. size classes, frequency, decay classes) between a managed and an adjacent unmanaged old-growth Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) compartment in the Keladarsht region of northern Iran 10 years after a single harvest entry using single-tree selection. Canopy openings >100 m2 with visible remnants of gapmakers (i.e. stumps) were included in this study. Gap characteristics of both compartments were within typical ranges for old-growth beech. Nonetheless, small but potentially important differences between the two areas were observ...

Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research, 2020

Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as ... more Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as part of a general process, help to establish and stabilize the structure of the Hyrcanian forests and the dynamism of its society. This study seeks to identify possible differences in the gap characteristics in the two managed and intact compartments. For this purpose, compartments No. 114 (intact) and No. 115 (managed) from district one of Livan-Banafshtapeh forestry plan in Golestan province of Iran were selected to compare some gap characteristics (gap fraction, distribution of gap sizes, number of gaps per hectare and status of gapmaker trees). In these compartments, all gaps>100 m2 caused by mortality of at least one tree with remnants of the gapmaker or detectable tree stumps, were identified and recorded. The results showed that the gap fraction in the intact and managed compartments was 10.7% and 6.3%, respectively. The average number of gaps varied from 1.4 ha-1 in the managed to 2.9 ha-1 in the intact compartment. The spatial pattern of gaps was randomly spaced up to a distance of 30 (managed) and 40 (intact) meters and then reached the cluster pattern. The differences between the characteristics in the two compartments were not statistically significant and management did
not have a significant effect on these variables. However, no significant differences between the two compartments were due to the low harvest intensity in the managed compartment. The biodiversity of Hyrcanian forests must always be taken into account so that it is not endangered
by mismanagement; otherwise irreparable effects on the ecosystem of the managed compartment may occur.

Journal of Forest Research and Development, 2020

This research was carried out in an unmanaged (934) and a managed (923) comportments of the Shafa... more This research was carried out in an unmanaged (934) and a managed (923) comportments of the Shafaroud region of northern old- growth beech forests of Iran. Gap characteristics such as gap area, gap fraction, gap frequency per hectare, DBH of gapmakers, frequency of gapmakers per gap and decay class of gapmakers were measured. Results showed that gap fraction of managed and unmanaged gaps were 13.5% and 9.06%, respectively. There were significant differences in frequency distributions of gap areas, DBH and gapmaker per gap between two study sites. Spatial pattern of gaps was random for both areas in 25m radius and beyond this distance aggregate pattern was determined.
Based on this research, decrease of number of gap per hectare and increase of dead wood frequency and volume should be implemented in the next management practices.

Iranian Journal of Forest, 2019

Importance of Juniper trees for forest rehabilitation programs was resulted in direct, seed sowin... more Importance of Juniper trees for forest rehabilitation programs was resulted in direct, seed sowing of Juniperus excelsa as a safe method to expand juniper forest areas and rehabilitation of deteriorated forests. This study was done to determine the effect of canopy and its geographic orientation on seed germination as well as survival of seedlings in the Sirachal research station. Collected seeds from Sirachal habitat were sowed in four main geographic orientations under canopy’s edge and 1.5 meter out of canopy as completely randomized blocks in split plots. Data analysis showed that canopy (P<0.05) and its geographic orientation (P<0.01) had significant effects on seed germination. In addition, the effect of geographic orientation of canopy on seedling survival was significant (P<0.01). The interaction of canopy and its geographic orientation on germination of seeds and survival of seedlings was not significant. The highest seed germination percentage was observed for seeds sowed under the canopy’s edge and in the north direction. The highest percentage of seedling survival was observed in the south followed by the north and east directions of the canopy. Despite the higher germination and survival percentages under the canopy’s edge, it is suggested to sow seeds out of trees canopy and in the north direction as seedlings have no chance to survive under the maternal trees canopy for longer periods.

Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research, 2019

In spite of Greek Juniper ́s (Juniperus excelsa M. B.) resistance to harsh environmental conditio... more In spite of Greek Juniper ́s (Juniperus excelsa M. B.) resistance to harsh environmental conditions, the area of its natural habitat is decreasing due to human activities and a low rate of natural regeneration. Therefore, the plantation is one solution to rehabilitate its natural habitats. Understanding the factors that affect the establishment, survival, and growth of seedlings are necessary to design and implement the rehabilitation programs. In this study, the effect of vegetative form and shading (only during the first year) was evaluated on the survival and
growth parameters of J. excelsa in the Sirachal research station for a four-year period. Four hundred and fifty saplings that were produced from three different maternal vegetative forms (A, B and C) were planted in the Sirachal research station as complete random blocks in split plots. The shading treatment was applied only in the first year. Statistical analysis showed the positive significant effect of vegetative form on current height growth and crown in the first and second years, respectively. In addition, the significant effect of shading increased collar
diameter in the first year but decreased height growth in the second year. Given the results and also the high costs, there is no advice to use shading in Juniper ́s plantation programs. Following four years of surveys, our results showed that vegetative form is more influential in the establishment, survival, and growth of J. excelsa saplings. Due to the importance of genetic diversity, selection of seeds from C vegetative form (including both A and B vegetative forms) with high potential of seed production will increase the success chance of planting and rehabilitation programs of J. excelsa habitats.

Iranian Journal of Forest, 2019

In this research, the effects of drought stress and shade on leaflet morphology of wild pistachio... more In this research, the effects of drought stress and shade on leaflet morphology of wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica subsp. Mutica) saplings were evaluated in Albroz Research center (Karaj, Iran) in the summer of 2014. One-year pot wild pistachio saplings were treated by soil humidity (including 100%, 50% and 20% of field capacity) and artificial shading (including 0%, 30% and 50% of full sunlight) factors in a split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design. After 5 months, terminal leaflet of the leaves was collected from different crown aspects and the morphological variables of leaflets were measured and calculated. Results showed that drought stress reduced the leaf area (LA), length, width, length to width ratio, perimeter, from factor and specific leaf area (SLA). Shade reduced the thickness and increased the LA and SLA of leaflets. The interaction of drought stress and shade on the SLA was significant which indicates that the response of the leaflet to shade depends on the amount of soil moisture, so that the addition of the shade reduced the effect of drought stress on this variable. In general, the results showed that the morphological characteristics of leaflets can be considered as feasible and important indicators of variation in soil moisture and light availability.

Ecology of Iranian Forests, 2019

Quantifying forest growth and determination of its affective factors are fundamental for forest m... more Quantifying forest growth and determination of its affective factors are fundamental for forest management. This study examines the effects of biotic and abiotic factors on the diameter increment of oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) in a high-elevation forest in northern Iran using permanent sample plots. The aim of this study was identification and quantifying environmental factors such as potential solar radiation in growing season, topographic wetness index in representing soil water distribution seasonal air temperature, topographic wetness index (as indicator of soil water distribution), wind velocity generated from simulation of fluid-flow dynamic models of complex terrains, temperature and humidity and their relation with diameter increment of beech. On the basis of diameter measurements in a year period (2003-2012) a
model was used in order to estimate diameter increment. Also, mean of DBH and basal area of beech trees were implemented in model as biotic factors. The results showed that DBH, combination of topographic and soil water index factors and basal area are the most important factors affecting diameter increment of beech trees, respectively. Eventually, the results showed that by using increment models, it is possible to determine the increment of diameter and factors affecting it with high accuracy.

Iran Nature, 2019

Wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) is one of the Iranian tree species with a large distrib... more Wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) is one of the Iranian tree species with a large distribution in whole country, and has a significant or limited presence in almost all provinces of Iran. This tree, like Juniper, is observed as wild trees and, without any exaggeration, is the most widespread tree species in Iran. In the first part of introducing long lived wild pistachio trees, 34 long lived wild pistachio trees are introduced and the details of 10 elite stands are given. The most frequency of long lived wild pistachio is observed in Khorasan Razavi province with 14 trees. Kurdistan province also has a high frequency of long lived wild pistachio. The thickest and oldest long lived wild pistachio was recorded in Chenar, Fars province, with a diameter of 245 cm and almost 2000 years old. The most glorious, highest and the most vital long lived wild pistachio was recorded in Rach, Khardarjan (south Khorasan) and Rameh (Semnan province), respectively.

Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research, 2021

Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as ... more Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as part of a general process, help to establish and stabilize the structure of the Hyrcanian forests and the dynamism of its society. This study seeks to identify possible differences in the gap characteristics in the two managed and intact compartments. For this purpose, compartments No. 114 (intact) and No. 115 (managed) from district one of Livan-Banafshtapeh forestry plan in Golestan province of Iran were selected to compare some gap characteristics (gap fraction, distribution of gap sizes, number of gaps per hectare and status of gapmaker trees). In these compartments, all gaps&gt;100 m2 caused by mortality of at least one tree with remnants of the gapmaker or detectable tree stumps, were identified and recorded. The results showed that the gap fraction in the intact and managed compartments was 10.7% and 6.3%, respectively. The average number of gaps varied from 1.4 ha-1 in the managed to 2.9 ha-1 in the intact compartment. The spatial pattern of gaps was randomly spaced up to a distance of 30 (managed) and 40 (intact) meters and then reached the cluster pattern. The differences between the characteristics in the two compartments were not statistically significant and management did not have a significant effect on these variables. However, no significant differences between the two compartments were due to the low harvest intensity in the managed compartment. The biodiversity of Hyrcanian forests must always be taken into account so that it is not endangered by mismanagement; otherwise irreparable effects on the ecosystem of the managed compartment may occur.

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2017

This investigation was carried out in Albroz research station complex (Karaj, Iran) during 2014 s... more This investigation was carried out in Albroz research station complex (Karaj, Iran) during 2014 summer. Mount Atlas mustic (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) seedlings were treated by drought (moderate, sever and without drought stress) and shading (low, moderate and without shade) factors in a split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design. After one month, physiological characteristics of leaves including RWC, soluble sugars, proline and pigments content, catalase enzyme activity and ion leakage were studied. Drought stress caused severe decrease in RWC and a, b and total chlorophyll contents. In contrast, shade by ameliorating drought stress significantly increased these parameters. Drought induced tolerance mechanisms in saplings and increased proline and carotenoid content while shade decreased these parameters significantly as well as a to b chlorophyll ratio. Interaction of drought and shade was significant for a chlorophyll and catalase activity, suggested that, d...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2017

This research was carried out in Sirachal Research Station in order to identify the best method f... more This research was carried out in Sirachal Research Station in order to identify the best method for Greek juniper (Juniperus excelsa M. B.) afforestation as one of the most important forest species in Iran. Three year-old juniper saplings were transported to Sirachal and were planted in a Split-Plot Randomized Block Design with water harvesting (in 5 treatments including using organs of native plants and shrubs at the bottom of pits, using 1×1 m plastic film at the surface of pits, using Aquasorb polymers mixed with the pits soil, semi-circular bonds and control) as main factor and shading (in 2 level of using tree sprouts as artificial shading and control) as secondary factor in 3 replication and 16 saplings per replication. Measured variables were survival, collar diameter, height, and crown area and sapling vitality at the end of growing season of 2015 and 2016. Results showed that rainwater harvesting had significant effect on survival juniper saplings for both 2014 and 2015 yea...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2016

A study on the impacts of soil humidity and artificial shading on growth, biomass production and ... more A study on the impacts of soil humidity and artificial shading on growth, biomass production and its allocation to different organs of wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.)saplings was carried out in Alborz research station complex (Karaj, Iran). One year seedlings were treated by soil humidity (20, 50 and 100 percent of field capacity) and shading (100, 70 and 50 percent of full sunlight) factors in a split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design from June to December 2014. Results showed significant impact of oil humidity on height, collar diameter, fresh and dry biomass of leaves and stem as well as on total fresh biomass. Shade significantly decreased height, root and total dry biomass and root to shoot fresh biomass ratio. Moreover, wild pistachio saplings with different soil humidity treatments show different responses to shade. In particular, shade significantly decreases height, fresh leaves biomass and R/S fresh biomass ratio for well-irrigated sapli...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2016

Identifying regeneration characteristics is a decisive prerequisite in forest stands management. ... more Identifying regeneration characteristics is a decisive prerequisite in forest stands management. Therefore, the objective of this research was to 1) present the most appropriate tree species for reforestation within stand gaps and 2) study the effect of relative light intensity on regeneration characteristics. Quantitative characteristics were measured in 10 gaps at district one of Loveh forest in Golestan province. Results showed differing frequencies of species depending on gap positions and relative light intensities. Except checker (Sorbus torminalis) regenerations, no significant difference was observed between mean of spring shoot length within gap positions. Annual height growth of checker was maximum for 40% relative light intensity, while the annual diameter growth of hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) and wild cherry (Prunus avium) were maximum for relative light intensity ranging between 30 and 40%, respectively. No significant difference for relative light intensities was obser...

تحقیقات جنگل و صنوبر ایران, 2017

The Juniperus habitat has the second most natural distribution in Iran after the pistachio. The h... more The Juniperus habitat has the second most natural distribution in Iran after the pistachio. The habitat area of Junipers has decreased due to its low rate of natural regeneration which makes the rehabilitation of this species very important. The aim of this study was to evaluate the maternal treemorphology and irrigation on survival and growth parameters of Greek juniper (J. excelsa M. B.) in Sirachal research station in a four years period. Twenty produced seedlings from three different maternal treemorphology including A (cylindrical), B (non-cylindrical) and C (high production of seed) were planted in Sirachal research station as complete random blocks in split plots with three replications in 2010. Seedlings were irrigated every fifteen, thirty and forty days in the first year. Controls were not irrigated. Statistical analysis showed that in the first year, the effect of irrigation was significant on growth parameters including current diameter growth, current height growth and ...

Salt cedar (Tamarix aphylla L. or Tamarix articulata Vahl.) is a rapid growth and salt tolerance ... more Salt cedar (Tamarix aphylla L. or Tamarix articulata Vahl.) is a rapid growth and salt tolerance species which has been considered as suitable tree for wood production in arid and semi-arid lands of southern Iran in addition to its common usages in desertification and sand fixation programs. In order to study the possibility of development of this tree in saline-alkaline soils of central desert boundaries of Iran, this research was carried out on 6 different population of salt cedar from Sistan va Balouchestan (Khash and Zahak townships), Yazd (Yazd township), Qom (Qom township), Isfahan (Kashan township) and Semnan (Garmsar township) provinces at Garmsar research station of desert in CRBD experimental design. Inventory of seedlings was carried out at beginning and end of 2012 and consisted of sprouting, Survival, number of sprouts, collar diameter of thickest sprout, height and crown vitality parameters. Results showed that in contrast with partial advantages of Garmsar and Qom population, there was no significant difference between populations and all of them showed moderate performance. Considering seedlings growth and survival we can conclude that plantation of this tree as suitable species for wood production in saline-alkaline soils of Iran central desert boundaries is possible and in this framework native populations in this region have more priority.

This research was carried out in parcel 15 of the first district of Arabdagh afforestation plan t... more This research was carried out in parcel 15 of the first district of Arabdagh afforestation plan to study the growth performance of 17- year old Turkish pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) plantations (ca. 63 ha and 2×3 m spacing). Sixty three sample plots were selected as random-systematic design. Within each plots, DBH, Total Height (TH), form factor, natural regeneration, stem form, crown vitality, stem health, mode of branching, stem straightness and crown symmetry were recorded. Computation of Dominant Height (DH), mean height and DBH, Basal Area (BA), height/DBH ratio, Total Volume (TV) and Mean Annual Increment of Volume (MAIV) and analysis of variable correlations were performed. Results showed that Arabdagh plantation had greater DBH and BA (14 vs. 13.7 cm and 27/983 vs. 24 m 2 /ha respectively) and less DH, mean height, TV and MIAV than the good sites of Turkish pine plantations in the country of origin with same age and plantation density which generally located between good and medium site conditions for Turkish pine plantation. Therefore regions with same ecological conditions can be considered as suitable sites for Turkish pine plantation.

The previous study demonstrated that pneumonia is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia... more The previous study demonstrated that pneumonia is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia irrespective of comorbidity, individuals with chronic lung diseases, particu- .

Ecology of Iranian Forests, 2019

Journal of Forest Science, 2018

This study was carried out to evaluate gap characteristics and gapmakers for different developmen... more This study was carried out to evaluate gap characteristics and gapmakers for different development stages of an oriental beech forest in northern Iran. Development stages of 1 ha square-shaped mosaic patches were identified using 100 × 100 m sampling grid and all gaps within these mosaics were recorded. Gap areas were calculated and classified into four classes and gapmakers were counted and classified into 4 decay and 4 diameter classes as well. Results showed that gaps comprised 13.7, 9.1 and 17.6% of the study area in initial, optimal and decay stages, respectively. There was a significant difference between development stages with respect to gap size and the highest amount was observed in decay stage. Medium-sized gaps were the most frequent in all three stages. Frequency distribution of gapmakers varied among development stages. Our findings revealed that 200–500 m² is the most preferable gap size for close-to-nature silvicultural approaches in Hyrcanian ...

Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2022

Forestry: An International Journal of Forest Research

Simplified forest structures following even-age management have been associated with the loss of ... more Simplified forest structures following even-age management have been associated with the loss of biodiversity, which may be avoided through disturbance-inspired silviculture. Here, we ask how much do gap characteristics in a managed old-growth differ from those in unmanaged old-growth subject only to natural dynamics? In this study, we compared important characteristics of gaps (e.g. canopy gap fraction, distribution of gap sizes) and gapmakers (e.g. size classes, frequency, decay classes) between a managed and an adjacent unmanaged old-growth Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) compartment in the Keladarsht region of northern Iran 10 years after a single harvest entry using single-tree selection. Canopy openings >100 m2 with visible remnants of gapmakers (i.e. stumps) were included in this study. Gap characteristics of both compartments were within typical ranges for old-growth beech. Nonetheless, small but potentially important differences between the two areas were observ...

Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research, 2020

Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as ... more Hyrcanian forests are rare and unique ecosystems and their sustainability is essential. Gaps, as part of a general process, help to establish and stabilize the structure of the Hyrcanian forests and the dynamism of its society. This study seeks to identify possible differences in the gap characteristics in the two managed and intact compartments. For this purpose, compartments No. 114 (intact) and No. 115 (managed) from district one of Livan-Banafshtapeh forestry plan in Golestan province of Iran were selected to compare some gap characteristics (gap fraction, distribution of gap sizes, number of gaps per hectare and status of gapmaker trees). In these compartments, all gaps>100 m2 caused by mortality of at least one tree with remnants of the gapmaker or detectable tree stumps, were identified and recorded. The results showed that the gap fraction in the intact and managed compartments was 10.7% and 6.3%, respectively. The average number of gaps varied from 1.4 ha-1 in the managed to 2.9 ha-1 in the intact compartment. The spatial pattern of gaps was randomly spaced up to a distance of 30 (managed) and 40 (intact) meters and then reached the cluster pattern. The differences between the characteristics in the two compartments were not statistically significant and management did
not have a significant effect on these variables. However, no significant differences between the two compartments were due to the low harvest intensity in the managed compartment. The biodiversity of Hyrcanian forests must always be taken into account so that it is not endangered
by mismanagement; otherwise irreparable effects on the ecosystem of the managed compartment may occur.

Journal of Forest Research and Development, 2020

This research was carried out in an unmanaged (934) and a managed (923) comportments of the Shafa... more This research was carried out in an unmanaged (934) and a managed (923) comportments of the Shafaroud region of northern old- growth beech forests of Iran. Gap characteristics such as gap area, gap fraction, gap frequency per hectare, DBH of gapmakers, frequency of gapmakers per gap and decay class of gapmakers were measured. Results showed that gap fraction of managed and unmanaged gaps were 13.5% and 9.06%, respectively. There were significant differences in frequency distributions of gap areas, DBH and gapmaker per gap between two study sites. Spatial pattern of gaps was random for both areas in 25m radius and beyond this distance aggregate pattern was determined.
Based on this research, decrease of number of gap per hectare and increase of dead wood frequency and volume should be implemented in the next management practices.

Iranian Journal of Forest, 2019

Importance of Juniper trees for forest rehabilitation programs was resulted in direct, seed sowin... more Importance of Juniper trees for forest rehabilitation programs was resulted in direct, seed sowing of Juniperus excelsa as a safe method to expand juniper forest areas and rehabilitation of deteriorated forests. This study was done to determine the effect of canopy and its geographic orientation on seed germination as well as survival of seedlings in the Sirachal research station. Collected seeds from Sirachal habitat were sowed in four main geographic orientations under canopy’s edge and 1.5 meter out of canopy as completely randomized blocks in split plots. Data analysis showed that canopy (P<0.05) and its geographic orientation (P<0.01) had significant effects on seed germination. In addition, the effect of geographic orientation of canopy on seedling survival was significant (P<0.01). The interaction of canopy and its geographic orientation on germination of seeds and survival of seedlings was not significant. The highest seed germination percentage was observed for seeds sowed under the canopy’s edge and in the north direction. The highest percentage of seedling survival was observed in the south followed by the north and east directions of the canopy. Despite the higher germination and survival percentages under the canopy’s edge, it is suggested to sow seeds out of trees canopy and in the north direction as seedlings have no chance to survive under the maternal trees canopy for longer periods.

Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research, 2019

In spite of Greek Juniper ́s (Juniperus excelsa M. B.) resistance to harsh environmental conditio... more In spite of Greek Juniper ́s (Juniperus excelsa M. B.) resistance to harsh environmental conditions, the area of its natural habitat is decreasing due to human activities and a low rate of natural regeneration. Therefore, the plantation is one solution to rehabilitate its natural habitats. Understanding the factors that affect the establishment, survival, and growth of seedlings are necessary to design and implement the rehabilitation programs. In this study, the effect of vegetative form and shading (only during the first year) was evaluated on the survival and
growth parameters of J. excelsa in the Sirachal research station for a four-year period. Four hundred and fifty saplings that were produced from three different maternal vegetative forms (A, B and C) were planted in the Sirachal research station as complete random blocks in split plots. The shading treatment was applied only in the first year. Statistical analysis showed the positive significant effect of vegetative form on current height growth and crown in the first and second years, respectively. In addition, the significant effect of shading increased collar
diameter in the first year but decreased height growth in the second year. Given the results and also the high costs, there is no advice to use shading in Juniper ́s plantation programs. Following four years of surveys, our results showed that vegetative form is more influential in the establishment, survival, and growth of J. excelsa saplings. Due to the importance of genetic diversity, selection of seeds from C vegetative form (including both A and B vegetative forms) with high potential of seed production will increase the success chance of planting and rehabilitation programs of J. excelsa habitats.

Iranian Journal of Forest, 2019

In this research, the effects of drought stress and shade on leaflet morphology of wild pistachio... more In this research, the effects of drought stress and shade on leaflet morphology of wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica subsp. Mutica) saplings were evaluated in Albroz Research center (Karaj, Iran) in the summer of 2014. One-year pot wild pistachio saplings were treated by soil humidity (including 100%, 50% and 20% of field capacity) and artificial shading (including 0%, 30% and 50% of full sunlight) factors in a split plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design. After 5 months, terminal leaflet of the leaves was collected from different crown aspects and the morphological variables of leaflets were measured and calculated. Results showed that drought stress reduced the leaf area (LA), length, width, length to width ratio, perimeter, from factor and specific leaf area (SLA). Shade reduced the thickness and increased the LA and SLA of leaflets. The interaction of drought stress and shade on the SLA was significant which indicates that the response of the leaflet to shade depends on the amount of soil moisture, so that the addition of the shade reduced the effect of drought stress on this variable. In general, the results showed that the morphological characteristics of leaflets can be considered as feasible and important indicators of variation in soil moisture and light availability.

Ecology of Iranian Forests, 2019

Quantifying forest growth and determination of its affective factors are fundamental for forest m... more Quantifying forest growth and determination of its affective factors are fundamental for forest management. This study examines the effects of biotic and abiotic factors on the diameter increment of oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) in a high-elevation forest in northern Iran using permanent sample plots. The aim of this study was identification and quantifying environmental factors such as potential solar radiation in growing season, topographic wetness index in representing soil water distribution seasonal air temperature, topographic wetness index (as indicator of soil water distribution), wind velocity generated from simulation of fluid-flow dynamic models of complex terrains, temperature and humidity and their relation with diameter increment of beech. On the basis of diameter measurements in a year period (2003-2012) a
model was used in order to estimate diameter increment. Also, mean of DBH and basal area of beech trees were implemented in model as biotic factors. The results showed that DBH, combination of topographic and soil water index factors and basal area are the most important factors affecting diameter increment of beech trees, respectively. Eventually, the results showed that by using increment models, it is possible to determine the increment of diameter and factors affecting it with high accuracy.

Iran Nature, 2019

Wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) is one of the Iranian tree species with a large distrib... more Wild pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) is one of the Iranian tree species with a large distribution in whole country, and has a significant or limited presence in almost all provinces of Iran. This tree, like Juniper, is observed as wild trees and, without any exaggeration, is the most widespread tree species in Iran. In the first part of introducing long lived wild pistachio trees, 34 long lived wild pistachio trees are introduced and the details of 10 elite stands are given. The most frequency of long lived wild pistachio is observed in Khorasan Razavi province with 14 trees. Kurdistan province also has a high frequency of long lived wild pistachio. The thickest and oldest long lived wild pistachio was recorded in Chenar, Fars province, with a diameter of 245 cm and almost 2000 years old. The most glorious, highest and the most vital long lived wild pistachio was recorded in Rach, Khardarjan (south Khorasan) and Rameh (Semnan province), respectively.