Journal of Rangeland

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Understanding structure and function of ecosystems assists managers to identify rangeland potentials. This study aimed to evaluate soil surface quality in northern and southern aspects of Khahkaloon and Ahmadabad Vezg rangeland in Boyerahmad county, using landscape function analysis (LFA) method. Twelve transects with 100 m lengths were established. Eleven soil surface indicators of various ecological patches (e.g. trees, shrubs, grasses, and forbs) and inter-patch zones were assessed by five replications based on LFA manual. Three functionality indices including soil stability, infiltration, and nutrient cycling were calculated for each transect. Results showed that although stability and nutrient cycling indices in north and south aspects in both areas differed, infiltration index did not differ significantly. Stability indices varied significantly between various ecological patches, and this index was highest in trees and shrubs ecological patches. Infiltration index of trees and shrubs in both northern and southern slopes of Khahkaloon varied significantly from other ecological patches. Considering high functionality of trees and shrubs, cultivation of these life forms can be recommended in restoration programs in the study area.
 

Keywords: Soil Surface indices, Tree, Shrub, Khahkaloon, Ahmadabad Vezg, Boyerahmad.

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