Application of Nearest Neighbor Indices in Persian Oak (Quercus brantii var. persica) Coppice Stands of Zagros Forests

The ecological relationship between trees is important in the sustainable management of forests. Studying this relationship in spatial ecology, different indices are applied that are based on distance to nearest neighbor. The aim of this research was introduction of important indices based on nearest neighbor analysis and their application in the investigation of ecological relationship between Persian oak coppice trees in Zagros forests. A 9 ha plot of these forests in Kohgilouye - BoyerAhmad province was selected that was completely homogeneous. This plot was covered with Persian oak coppice trees that their point map was obtained after registering their spatial location. Five nearest neighbor indices of G(r), F(r), J(r), GF(r) and CE were then applied to study the spatial pattern and relationship of these trees. The results showed that Persian oak coppice trees were located regularly in the homogeneous plot and they were not dependent ecologically. These trees were independent and did not affect the establishment of each other.