Abstract

The aim of this research was to determine the effects of Camphorosma monspeliaca species on soil nutrient elements in its habitat. For rangeland, ecological positive or negative effects of plant species on environment must carefully be examined before allowing their plantation in vast areas; on the other hand this species with their special characteristics have special effects on their surrounding environment that should be considered. Camphorosma monspeliaca is one of non-native and adapted species in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province that its habitat has 3500 ha area. Effect of this species on environment requires more studies on their different aspects. Here we studied effect of this species on soil in order to assess its ecological effects on environment. This species distributed in all of the landscape but most distribution of species located at southern and northern aspects and in areas with flat topography. Companion species in topography position are different. This species can establish in non saline soil. The research was carried out at three stages of field sampling, soil test and statistical analysis. The research method was based on comparison between adjacent stand and stands of this species. Soil variables in two depth 0-10 cm and 10-30 cm were measured. Result showed that in two depths, were not significant difference but, in case of soil mineral elements, plant stands have significant difference; effect of depth and plant stands was not significant. There was significant difference adjacent stand and stands of this species in terms of Na, Mg, OC and in stands of this species were greater than the adjacent stands. This species increased content of carbon organic¬ and Na, Mg. From the results obtained on three topographic position, despite of negative effect of Camphorosma monspeliaca on sub soil with increase of Na and Mg, it can be concluded that Camphorosma monspeliaca had a positive effect on soil organic¬ matter. In general this plant has a good perspective and further studies about different aspects of this species are necessary.