Plant Diversity Affected by Litter and Soil Properties in Steppe-Forest Transition Zone

Abstract Especially steppe-forest ecotones, formed naturally or human-induced, are under threat due to overuse, inappropriate land use, and wrong interventions. These transition zones have long been a focus of interest for ecologists, and more research is needed, especially on the relationship between plant diversity and edaphic factors. The research area is located in the northern part of Çankırı province in Türkiye. The study used the line transect approach to evaluate the link between plant species diversity, litter, and soil parameters in the steppe-to-forest transition zone. The transects are about 12 kilometers long and create a line from the steppe to the forest. According to RDA findings, plant species diversity in the transition zone was significantly correlated with litter concentrations of Ca, K, P, and Mg. Plant biodiversity in the steppe zone correlated with soil Ca, CaCO3, Na, and pH levels. Our findings shed light on the relationship between plant diversity and edaphic (soil) properties in the steppe, forest, and transition zones. Elevated calcium levels in the steppe and transition zones indicate a higher appropriateness for calcicole plants (those that grow in calcium-rich habitats). This insight provides useful information for using native plant species in restoration and rehabilitation activities aimed at steppe and transition zone ecosystems. Cite this article as: Çakır, F., & Çakır, M. (2024). Plant diversity affected by litter and soil properties in steppeforest transition zone. Forestist, 74(3), 395-401.