Alnus subcordata C.A.M. Cambium Cells Dynamics Along Transport Corridors in Hyrcanian Forests

Abstract

Problem statement: In this study, we considered transport corridors and sampling aspects to be the major indicators of ecological effects on Alder (Alnus subcordata) cambium cells dynamics. Approach: Thus, 240 cores were taken from forest-facing and road-facing trunk of Alder trees along Amre, Neka and Darab Kola transport corridors in hyrcanian Forests of Iran. Results showed that the roads corridor had significant effects on Alnus subcordata annual rings (p = 0.04) and bark growth (p<0.0001). Results: In Darab Kola and Neka the bark thickness in road-facing aspect was significantly (p<0.05) more than forest-facing aspect because of consistency reaction to natural hazards. Annual rings width in adjacent stand was significantly (p<0.05) more than the rings width at both sides of trees trunk along transport corridors. Conclusion: Cambium cells dynamic diagram in production of annual rings indicated that the Alnus subcordata at commence of growth had been produced wide rings but in continuance the rings width reduced. This reduction was obviously for road-facing cores. Soil compaction, drainage structures, natural hazards and etc caused the thinner rings to be produced by cambium cells in road-facing aspect.