Document Type : Over looking Iranian Nature
Authors
1
Associate Prof, Forests and Rangelands Research Department, Kermanshah Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, (AREEO), Kermanshah, Iran.
2
Research Expert, Forests and Rangelands Research Department, Kermanshah Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Kermanshah, Iran
3
Expert, Kermanshah Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Kermanshah, Iran
4
Associate Prof, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, (AREEO), Tehran, Iran
10.22092/irn.2026.370572.1672
Abstract
Mountain ecosystems are of great importance due to their biodiversity and ecological functions. The Dalahkhani and Amruleh mountain ranges, located in the northeastern part of Kermanshah Province, with prominent peaks exceeding 3000 meters above sea level, such as Soheil, Dalahkhani, Namazgah (Amruleh), and Nokhodchal, due to their distinctive topography and landform features, vegetation, ecological values, and scenic landscapes, have become prominent destinations for ecotourists, researchers in natural resources, and geology. These mountains play a significant hydrological role by contributing to the recharge and water supply of numerous springs and karstic aquifers in the region, such as the Sarab-e Sonqor (Gaznahleh), Sarab-e Sirijan (Kangarshah), Sarab-e Darband Sahneh, and Sarab-e Kabootar-Laneh springs. From a floristic perspective, based on previous studies in the Dalakhani and Amruleh mountains, 50 plant species, including 32 endemics and 18 regional-endemic species (Iran-Iraq or Iran-Turkey), were identified. Among these, 20 species are classified as endangered, 13 as critically endangered, and 17 as vulnerable. These findings highlight the significant biodiversity value of these two areas, particularly the Dalakhani highlands, in conserving and supporting endemic species. Despite this significance, field research conducted in these regions has unfortunately shown that many plant species within these beautiful mountain ecosystems are at risk in terms of their conservation status. The major environmental threats and challenges in the area include climate change and reduced precipitation, wildfires, land-use change of natural resource areas, overgrazing, heavy trekking activity, and the collection of aromatic and medicinal plants. It is recommended that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Watershed Management Organizations make necessary arrangements to reduce the destructive effects of these factors.
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