Document Type : Review Article
Authors
1 Research Assistant Professor, Forests and Rangelands Research Department, West Azerbaijan Province Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Urmia, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Development and Natural Resources, Faculty of Technology and Engineering, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Forests and Rangelands Research Department, West Azarbaijan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Urmia, I. R. Iran
Abstract
The Zagros forests, as the largest and most important forest ecosystem in Iran, have been affected by two hazardous phenomena in recent years: climate change and dust storms. This study aimed to investigate the simultaneous impacts of these two phenomena on the stability and health of these forests. For this purpose, credible scientific sources from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were systematically reviewed and analyzed. The findings indicate that a 1.5°C increase in temperature and a 20% decrease in precipitation have exacerbated droughts, reducing soil moisture by up to 25%. These changes severely threaten the health of the main species in the Zagros forests, particularly oak trees and other trees and shrubs. On the other hand, dust storms have disrupted photosynthesis by reducing sunlight by 30% and increased soil erosion by 18%. These factors, combined, have had devastating effects on the Zagros forest ecosystem, resulting in a 25% decline in biodiversity and an 18% decrease in carbon sequestration capacity. Additionally, critical ecosystem functions, such as water cycle regulation and soil stabilization, have been significantly weakened. Continuing this trend could alter the structure of the Zagros forest ecosystem, making it more vulnerable to pests and diseases. To address these challenges, strategies such as optimal water resource management, planting drought-resistant species, and restoring native vegetation are recommended. This study emphasizes the need for urgent and effective measures to protect and restore the Zagros forests.
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