Monitoring populations of the medicinal plant Capparis spinosa L. in West Azerbaijan Province

Mohebbi, Fereidun; Karvani, Vahid; Mojarrad Ashena Abad, Mehran

doi:10.22091/ethc.2026.14952.1073

Monitoring populations of the medicinal plant Capparis spinosa L. in West Azerbaijan Province

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of forest and rangland, Research and agriculture education center of West Azarbaijan., Urmia, Iran.

² Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, University of Payame Noor, Tehran Iran.

10.22091/ethc.2026.14952.1073

Abstract

Objective: In Iran, the exploitation of natural medicinal and edible plants, often through encroachment on natural habitats, has placed significant pressure on these plant populations, thereby threatening their species survival. Adapting conservation strategies to contemporary climate, social, and economic changes necessitates comprehensive field studies to assess the status of these plant populations and monitor their dynamics. This is crucial for defining appropriate conservation measures. Consequently, the present study aims to safeguard the caper plant (Capparis spinosa) from survival threats by conducting an ecological investigation of its habitats in West Azerbaijan Province. The objective is to delineate its population characteristics and ascertain the necessity for supportive conservation programs.
Methods: This study utilized the plotting method (plot sampling) to determine population size, coverage, and density. The total population area was subsequently delineated using the survey method.
Results: The findings indicated variability in population density, ranging from 25% to 41%, and in coverage area, ranging from 27% to 37%.
Conclusion: Although the density and coverage levels of the studied populations were deemed adequate, the population size and their occupancy metrics were comparable to or did not fall below the established criteria for endangered species. Therefore, while the caper plant is not currently facing imminent extinction, the imperative to develop and implement conservation programs to prevent its unsustainable harvesting from natural ecosystems is undeniable.

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