Plant communities across a vegetation profile in Kaboodan Island of Urmia Lake (northwest of Iran)

In the present study, the vegetation of Kaboodan Island, the largest island of saltwater Urmia Lake (northwest of Iran) was documented, predominantly based on a vegetation profile established across the island. For this purpose, vegetation sampling was carried out along a north-south profile together with some scattered points. Vegetation data analysis was accomplished in the form of classification using TWINSPAN and ordination using DCA. The synoptic table of vegetation units and the schematic view of vegetation profile were also presented. From a total of ۱۰۷ relevés, ۲۴ plant communities were distinguished according to floristic and ecological characteristics in Kaboodan Island. They were categorized into three groups including: ۱. Plant communities formed on the dried bed of Urmia Lake (on the island present-day shorelines), ۲. Plant communities developed on the island former shorelines, and ۳. Plant communities found on hills adjacent to shorelines, steppe areas and valleys of the island. The result of the present survey showed that, Kaboodan Island with a less-touched ecosystem and no anthropogenic activities over decades is a home to various plant species and vegetation types. Considering to unstable hydrological condition of Urmia Lake in recent years, conservation and vegetation monitoring is highly recommended for this and other islands of the lake facing the succession trend.

Keywords:

Classification , Irano-turanian region , island , ordination , salt lake