Khaje Kalat woody rangelands, located in northeastern Iran, represent one of the few remaining Sicilian pistachio rangelands worldwide. Understanding the ecological processes shaping pistachio communities is crucial for effective management and restoration efforts. This study aimed to investigate the impact of abiotic environmental factors on Pistacia vera L. density, a research study was conducted during 2018-2019. And 162 quadrats (25 m2 each) were established across three geological formations, two aspects (northern vs. southern), and three classes of Terrain Niche Index (TNI). The two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to analyze the impact of geological formation, topographic attributes, and soil parameters on pistachio density. Significant findings (p<0.05) underscore the pronounced influence of geological formation, TNI, and their interactions on pistachio density. These findings showed distinct patterns across formations and elevations. Moreover, an analysis of soil parameters highlights the pivotal roles of phosphorus and geological formations in influencing pistachio density. Notable associations between phosphorus levels and density emerged, along with substantial variations in soil properties among different formations. While recognizing the significance of soil fertility, particularly in nutrient-rich lowlands, the study suggests that it may not be the primary limiting factor for mature pistachio trees. However, the presence of such nutrient-rich lowlands may potentially hinder pistachio establishment. In conclusion, these insights underscore the importance of analytical ecosystem management for preserving and restoring Pistacia vera rangelands effectively.

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