Ecology of Iranian Forest

Extended Abstract

Background: Understanding the presence of fungi and recognizing the significance of biodiversity are essential for achieving sustainability goals in forest management. A comprehensive knowledge base regarding these organisms allows forest managers to develop strategies that align with ecological health and sustainability. To effectively manage forest ecosystems, it is crucial to establish clear indicators that provide adequate information on biodiversity. These indicators can help monitor changes resulting from various management activities, ensuring that the balance within these ecosystems is maintained. This study aims to identify diverse macroscopic fungi and investigate their biodiversity specifically within the context of deadwood habitats. By focusing on deadwood, which serves as a critical substrate for many fungal species, we can gain insights into the ecological roles these fungi play in forest ecosystems.
Methods: In this research, fifteen specimens of deadwood fungi were randomly selected from the Darabkola forest, a rich ecological area known for its biodiversity. Each specimen of macroscopic fungi was meticulously numbered and collected to ensure accurate identification. Following collection, the specimens were transferred to the mycology laboratory for detailed identification and analysis. The identification process involved careful examination of morphological characteristics and comparison with existing taxonomic keys. To assess the biodiversity of the fungi, several indices were employed, including the Shannon-Wiener diversity index, Simpson diversity index, richness index, and uniformity index. These indices were calculated using PAST software, a powerful tool for statistical analysis in ecological studies. By applying these metrics, we aimed to quantify the diversity and distribution of fungal species present in the deadwood, providing a clearer understanding of their ecological significance.
Results: he results of the study revealed a total of 37 species of macroscopic fungi, which were categorized into 27 genera and 16 families. Among these, Trametes versicolor, Daldinia concentrica, Trichaptum biforme, and Fomes fomentarius emerged as the most abundant species, indicating their prevalence in the deadwood habitats. Conversely, Hericium coralloides, Ganoderma resinaceum, Ganoderma adspersum, and Trametes trogii were identified as the least abundant species, highlighting the variability in fungal distribution. Additionally, the analysis showed that the families Polyporaceae, Xylariaceae, Ganodermataceae, Pleurotaceae, and Schizophyllaceae were the most abundant, contributing significantly to the overall fungal diversity in the area. In contrast, the families Pezizaceae and Hericiaceae were found to be the least represented, suggesting a lower ecological presence in this specific habitat. Most of the fungi identified were in the final stages of decomposition, indicating their role in nutrient cycling and organic matter breakdown within the forest ecosystem. The mean diversity indices calculated during the study were as follows: the Shannon-Wiener species diversity index was determined to be 3.24, while the Simpson species diversity index was 0.95. Margalef's richness index was recorded at 6.11, and Menhinick's index was found to be 1.95. The uniformity index, which reflects the evenness of species distribution, was calculated at 0.69. Notably, the analysis of the Shannon-Wiener diversity index indicated that Trichaptum biforme and Trametes versicolor exhibited higher diversity values, each scoring 1.46, which suggests their significant ecological roles within the deadwood habitat.
Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the importance of managing fallen deadwood habitats to enhance fungal biodiversity. Given the ecological roles that fungi play in nutrient cycling, decomposition, and overall forest health, it is recommended that forest management practices prioritize the preservation of these areas. By maintaining and protecting fallen deadwood, we can contribute to the revitalization and completion of the ecosystem cycle. Such preservation efforts not only support fungal diversity but also promote the overall health and sustainability of forest ecosystems. This study highlights the need for ongoing research and monitoring to ensure that forest management strategies are effective in maintaining biodiversity and ecological integrity. Future studies should continue to explore the relationships between deadwood, fungal diversity, and forest health, providing valuable insights for sustainable forest management practices.