Autecology of Sorbus Lorestanica L. as an Endemic and Rare Species (A Case Study: GaharRood Lorestan)

One of the effective steps for the sustainable forest development is the recognition of habitat condition and silvicultural characteristics of the rare species. Accordingly, this study investigated the aut ecology of Sorbus lorestanica as a rare species of Zagros. For this purpose, the exclusive natural habitat of Sorbus lorestanica in Lorestan province (Gahar rood protected area) was selected the and data of all trees were recorded by the full inventory method. Habitat characteristics such as slop, aspect and altitude were recorded and the surface soil samples were taken and the selected physicochemical characteristics were measured. Fruits and seeds of the Sorbus lorestanica were sampled and the morphological traits were assessed. The results showed that Sorbus lorestanica trees were expanded at 2100-2400 m above sea level, in the north-western dirction  in a shallow soil with sandy loam texture and alkaline reaction. The mean of diameter at  the breast height (dbh), total height,canopy diameter, trunk height, crown canopy and basel area was 7.58cm, 4.04m, 3.23m. 1.25m. 9.27m2 and 152.77cm2, respectively. Also 1000 seeds weight and specific leaf area were 34.78 gr and 97.09 cm2/gr respectively. Juniperus excelsa, Amygdalus haussknechtii, Amygdalus lycioides, Amygdalus scoparia, Lonicera nummularifolia, Cerasus mahaleb and Salix spp were the main species present with Sorbus lorestanica trees.