Carbon Sequestration of Mediterranean Tree Species in the Zagros Forest of Iran

Aims: Despite the many studies on carbon stock and sequestration in forest ecosystems of Iran, the effects and role of Mediterranean species on carbon stock in forest ecosystems of Iran is not well known. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of Mediterranean species on surface soil carbon stock in Zagros forest. Materials Methods: To this, Cupressus sempervirens var horizontalis, Myrtus commonis, and Quercus brantii stands and bare land were selected to study the potential of the studied species on soil carbon stock. Findings: Our results indicated that Cupressus sempervirens stands represent the highest significant value for soil carbon stock (237.79 t.ha-1). Soil carbon stock in Myrtus commonis and Quercus brantii stands were 122.05 and 91.90 t.ha-1, respectively. Significant differences between Myrtus commonis and Quercus brantii were recorded. The least soil carbon stock was recorded in the control site and was significantly lower (27.26 t.ha-1) compared to the other treatments. In general, Mediterranean species implied significant role in increasing the soil carbon stock in the Zagros forest of Iran. The higher soil content under the Mediterranean canopy is due to the higher soil nutrient available and also might be related to the protection made for these species compared to the oak forest. Moreover soil organic carbon and bulk density are representing of the best predictor of the soil carbon stock based on the multilinear regression method. Conclusion: Additionally, reforestation/afforestation programs by Myrtus commonis and Cupressus sempervirens should be consider for carbon sequestration program in the Zagros forest.