First attempt to measure rainfall canopy interception loss, throughfall, and stemflow in Juglans regia Linn and Cup. Sempervirens L. Var. fastigiata in the north of Iran

Abstract

Each individual tree significantly alters the growth of surrounding vegetation by partitioning of rainfall and nutrients to the rooting zone. The Iranian Hyrcanian forests are among one of the most fragile ecosystems of the country owing to large industrial activities for logging and extensive urbanisation. These may accelerate disturbing of this unique type of forest. Of concern currently is an increase in plantations of Juglans regia Linn and a Cup. Sempervirens L. Var. fastigiata species, which has taken place over the past few decades for agro–forestry and ornamental purposes. As such it has the potential to affect the growth of associated vegetation by altering the hydrological balance within this region. The results indicate that walnut trees are at the range of interception of temperate forest trees whereas cypress trees have a very high amount of interception. Thus, care should be taken in planting cypress trees over a vast area.