An Assessment of Structural Characteristics of Patches in Different Natural and Managerial Conditions in Taleghan (Case Study: Karkaboud and Kouin)

3 Abstract: Preservation of ecosystems requires an understanding of the ecosystem processes that regulate ecosystem resources. Patches and inter-patch features are parts of the ecosystem that are partially responsible for effects on transporting and storing materials in the ecosystem. The structural features of ecological patches including size, number and the average inter-patch length are important because they are key factors in determining the fate and movement of sediments and organic matter. The purpose of this study is to assess the effects of management actions on the structural characteristics of patches. To this end, landscape function analysis (LFA) method was used in four management treatments in Taleghan, North West of Tehran. Patches were defined in terms of vegetative form, then size and number of patches and the average inter-patch lengths were measured. The results showed that with increase in grazing pressure size and the number of patches decreased and the average inter-patch length increased. Structural characteristics showed significant difference between management treatments.