Identification of suitable sites for development of mangrove forests in Holor region, Qeshm Island

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 M.Sc. graduated of Forestry, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Kurdistan, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Forest Research Division, Research Institute of Forests & Rangelands, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Kurdistan, Iran

4 Senior Research Expert, Forest Research Division, Research Institute of Forests & Rangelands, Iran

Abstract

Mangroves are one of the most important and valuable ecosystems throughout the world. Overexploitations of mangroves by local communities due to their diverse characteristics have caused severe degradation of these ecosystems. This process can be found in mangroves of Iran, so protection and development of them is essential. In this research, we will try to indentify the best sites for development of mangroves in Holor region of Qeshm Island with an area of about 300 hectare. Firstly, the most important parameters in growth of mangroves have determined that were as follows: tidal sites, soil pH, soil electrical conductivity, soil texture, soil saturation percent, soil Sodium absorption ratio and proportion of soil Mg and Na. Sixteen soil samples were obtained using a systematic-random sampling network and their physiochemical variables were measured in laboratory. Geographical Information System and satellite images of IRS were used to provide the map layers of soil variables. Layers were overlapped and the final map of suitable sites for development of mangroves was obtained. Based on results, 13.67 ha (4.56 %) of the total area were capable for development of mangroves which could be considered in afforestation plans.  

Keywords

Forest Sustainable Development
Volume 1, Issue 2 - Serial Number 2
August 2014
Pages 151-165

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