Volume 19, Issue 1 (3-2025)
مرتع 2025, 19(1): 108-122 |
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Heydari Q, Zamani Z. Investigating the Impact of Small Rodent Activity on the Decline of Astragalus sempervirens L. in the Sangraj Rangeland of Savadkuh. مرتع 2025; 19 (1) :108-122
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1299-en.html
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1299-en.html
Department of Range Management, Faculty of Natural Resources, Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Sari
Abstract: (739 Views)
Background and objectives: The presence of plant species such as Astragalus sempervirens in rangelands, particularly in high-altitude regions, plays a vital role in maintaining biodiversity. Given the importance of rangelands in the national economy and their function in soil and water conservation, understanding the ecological factors driving vegetation changes is essential. This study aims to evaluate the impact of small rodent activity on the decline of Astragalus sempervirens in the Sangraj summer rangeland of Savadkuh.
Methodology: Field investigations were conducted in 2023 across three domains—northern, eastern, and western—where Astragalus species dominate the vegetation. Following an initial site survey, a systematic random sampling method was applied using 100-meter transects with 2×2 m² plots. Within each plot, the number of Astragalus stands and rodent-induced burrows at their bases were recorded. Soil samples were collected from depths 0–50 cm in triplicate and analyzed in the laboratory. Rodent activity was observed in drying shrubs, and the species present in the study area were identified. Data analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.
Results: The rodent species identified in the study area was the Snow Vole (Chionomys nivalis)**. Statistical analyses indicated that the domain significantly affected the number of Astragalus stands, rodent burrow density, and soil characteristics. The highest number of Astragalus stands (4,533) and rodent burrows (3,067) were recorded in the northern domain. Soil texture varied across domains, with sandy-loamy composition in the northern and eastern domains and loamy-sandy in the western domain. Significant variations were observed in soil essential elements and organic matter across domains. The highest levels were recorded in the northern slope, including: Nitrogen (0.25%), Phosphorus (12.21 mg/g), Potassium (760.43 mg/g), Organic Matter (6.84%). Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive association between Astragalus stand density and soil parameters (clay content, phosphorus, and potassium) at the 1% significance level. Additionally, key soil nutrients (N, P, K) exhibited a significant positive correlation with the study domains.
Methodology: Field investigations were conducted in 2023 across three domains—northern, eastern, and western—where Astragalus species dominate the vegetation. Following an initial site survey, a systematic random sampling method was applied using 100-meter transects with 2×2 m² plots. Within each plot, the number of Astragalus stands and rodent-induced burrows at their bases were recorded. Soil samples were collected from depths 0–50 cm in triplicate and analyzed in the laboratory. Rodent activity was observed in drying shrubs, and the species present in the study area were identified. Data analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.
Results: The rodent species identified in the study area was the Snow Vole (Chionomys nivalis)**. Statistical analyses indicated that the domain significantly affected the number of Astragalus stands, rodent burrow density, and soil characteristics. The highest number of Astragalus stands (4,533) and rodent burrows (3,067) were recorded in the northern domain. Soil texture varied across domains, with sandy-loamy composition in the northern and eastern domains and loamy-sandy in the western domain. Significant variations were observed in soil essential elements and organic matter across domains. The highest levels were recorded in the northern slope, including: Nitrogen (0.25%), Phosphorus (12.21 mg/g), Potassium (760.43 mg/g), Organic Matter (6.84%). Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive association between Astragalus stand density and soil parameters (clay content, phosphorus, and potassium) at the 1% significance level. Additionally, key soil nutrients (N, P, K) exhibited a significant positive correlation with the study domains.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2024/12/3 | Accepted: 2025/03/9 | Published: 2025/03/30
Received: 2024/12/3 | Accepted: 2025/03/9 | Published: 2025/03/30
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