Stand dynamics of Kazdagi fir (Abies equi-trojani Ascher et Sinten) natural forests in Turkey

Abstract

This study has been carried out to investigate the natural distribution area of Kazdagi fir (Abies equi-trojani Ascher et Sinten) and stand dynamics of the forest in Karakoy district in the Turkey. Natural range area of this endemic species cover totally 3591.5 ha land formed by 282.5 ha pure fir stands and 3309 ha mixed with Black pine (Pinus nigra Arnold. subsp. pallasiana Holmboe) and Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky.). This research has implemented at the three altitudinial ranges (1000, 1100 and 1200 m) in 12 experimental areas. Volume and volume increment of Kazdagi fir forest increase depending on the altitudinial zones. Volumes ranges from 254.6 to 408.3 m(3)/ha and annual volume increments are between 12.9-13.2 m(3)/ha in pure fir stands. These figures are 180.6-291.2 m(3) for volume and 8.2-8.7 m(3) for annual volume increment in Oriental beech+Kazdagi fir stands. In Kazdagi fir+Black pine+Oriental beech mixed stands, volume per hectare change between 136. 1 and 222.2 m(3), annual volume increments are between 8.1-8.6 m(3)/ha. In Black pine+Kazdagi fir mixed stands, volume per hectare change between 75.7 and 176.4 m(3), annual volume increment are between 9.3-9.6 m(3)/ha. According to the stand profiles determined for stand types are even aged and single storied. Regeneration practices for Kazdagi fir have not been applied in the stands. The necessary measurements should be taken for in situ conservation of the whole natural range of Kazdagi fir, since the distribution area of the species has considerably decreased year by year. Apart from this, considering the fast growing characters of this species, establishment possibilities of industrial plantations with this species at the suitable sites out of the natural ranges should be investigated.