Vegetation and Forest Complexity Analysis of the Caucasian Grouse (Lyrurus mlokosiewiczi) Habitats in the Lesser Caucasus Mountain

Species composition can vary among different types of habitat and is defined by the dependency species on resources. The positive relationship between forest functions increasing interest to researchers. In this study, we focused structural complexity index (SCI) Caucasian grouse (Lyrurus mlokosiewiczi) habitat, which an indicator in mountain habitats Arasbaran biosphere reserve, Iran. Data were collected from previously identified presence pseudo-absence locations species. A total 18 sample plots surveyed systematically randomly each area with 800 m distance other (36 total). main parameters type species, diameter height trees, shrubs regeneration, number coarse woody debris. Overstorey tree richness per ha differed locations, 16 20 respectively. was observed site trees smaller than 10 cm DBH a balanced density 5 DBH. Overall, SCI higher location no significant difference (t = 1.491, p-value= 0.154). heterogeneity stand structure high. where present characterized high numbers dead also log volume. Maintaining heterogenous important for protecting Conservation fruit that are fed recommended.