Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Research Instructor, Research Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Semnan, Iran,
2 Research Instructor, Research Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Semnan, Iran.
3 Senior Research Expert, Research Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Semnan, Iran.
Abstract
In this study, species of Salsola rigida, Seidlitzia rosmarinus, Atriplex canescens and
Anabasis setifera were investigated to identify appropriate species for planting together with
Haloxylon ammodendron. This research was aimed to use spaces among shrub species and to
enhance the ecosystems in which H. Ammodendron species are distributed. The study was
performed in a randomized complete blocks design with three replications and six treatments at
research station of natural resources of Semnan. The measured traits were included annual
growth (measuring the thickest branch, flowering branch and the length of horizontal branches),
forage yield and seedling establishment. Results of analysis of variance showed that there were
no significant differences among blocks. A significant difference was observed for seedling
establishment at 1% level of probability. High growth and canopy cover of H. ammodendron
significantly differed with other species. A. setifera, S. rosmarinus and A.canescens were
respectively in the best position in term of number of sub-branches. This feature is important in
controlling erosion and resistance to grazing. H. ammodendron, S. rigida and S. rosmarinus
showed suitable condition in terms of forage yield. No significant differences were observed for
seedling establishment. Maximum number of the established species were recorded for
A.canescens ,S.rigida, N.schoberi, A.setifera, S.rosmarinus and H.ammodendron, respectively.
Keywords
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