Understanding how forest ecosystem services are affected by conservation practices and differences in elevation: A study in the Arasbaran biosphere reserve, Iran

Abstract

Studies addressing how different forest management methods affect the ecosystem services provided by forests in different geographical areas are essential. The objective of this study was to investigate how regulating and supporting services are affected by conservation management and differences in elevation. This was achieved by comparing several ecosystem indicators between the protected and unprotected areas.The forests under study were divided into two elevation ranges (1000–1500 and 1500–2000 m above sea level), and 66 sample plots (area 300 m2) were established in each area. Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the trees were recorded, and soil and litter samples were obtained in all sample plots. Increment cores were also obtained from the main tree species in the area. In addition, regulating services (regulation of CO2, water and soil) and supporting services (nutrient cycling in soil, and above-ground net primary production) were also evaluated. All of the indicators studied in the regulating services section, except annual carbon sequestration by the trees and the soil loss, in the protected were more than in the unprotected area. No significant differences between the two regions were observed regarding annual carbon sequestration and soil regulation indicators. Regarding the supporting services indicators, total nitrogen, assimilable potassium and average trunk volume of the trees were higher in the protected than in the unprotected area; the opposite was true for the total phosphorus index. The results suggest positive effects of conservation management on regulating and supporting services in the protected area of the Arasbaran forests.The findings of the study indicate that conservation management practices have a positive impact on both regulating and supporting services within the protected area of the Arasbaran forests. This suggests that the implementation of conservation measures in this region has resulted in beneficial outcomes for the ecosystem services provided by the forests. The results highlight the importance of protecting and managing forest areas to enhance their ability to regulate CO2, water, and soil, as well as support nutrient cycling and above-ground net primary production.These outcomes highlight the crucial role of conservation efforts in maintaining and enhancing the overall health and functioning of the Arasbaran forests. It indicates that protective management is essential for promoting key ecosystem services. The study also underscores the importance of considering factors such as altitude and habitat conditions when formulating forest management strategies or plans.