Spatial ecology investigates the spatial patterns of distributions and their relationships to ecological events. Studying and monitoring the patterns and status of plant species and communities enables one to set priority areas for conservation and to maintain biodiversity. This study was carried out on forest vegetation distributed in 500 to 1700 m.a.s.l. along the east and west river bank of Shirinrood, extended south-north, central Elborz, to identify spatial distribution and diversity of the forest in relation to physiographic factors. Certain 40×40 Sq.m. plots were established and vegetation parameters and physiographic factors were recorded inside. The data were subjected to analyses by multivariate and biodiversity software. The results revealed spatial distribution of 6 forest types along an elevational gradient viz. Buxus hyrcana-Zelkova carpinifolia (500-600m.a.s.l.), pure Buxus hyrcana, Parrotia persica-Carpinus betulus, Fagus orientalis-Carpinus betulus, Buxus hyrcana-Taxus baccata and again Fagus orientalis-Carpinus betulus type, in elevation of 1400-1700 m, dominated by trees of 40m, and some with over 50m height, e.g., Alnus subcordata and Acer velutinum. Discriminant function analysis showed that elevation is the most effective factor to discriminate the forest types. The highest species diversity and evenness were observed in the mid-elevation part and in the east and south-east slope aspect of the river. Such studies may provide a critical venue for conservation of both species and natural ecosystems.

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