The Effects of Rock Chemistry and Ecological Factors on Plant Diversity in the Tokatli Canyon of Turkey

Abstract

Species diversity, edaphic and geological rock properties were investigated in the Tokatli Canyon. Quercus infectoria-Platanus orientalis was identified as the plant community with the highest species diversity and richness. High concentrations of NH4+ and NO3- were found in moderately sloping areas in the north-east in the Tokatli Canyon. Available P contents tend to increase towards the Mediterranean communities. Arbutus andrachne-Cistus creticus plant communities, found in the study area (especially on central and higher slopes of the canyon) are an example of Mediterranean relict groupings formed by Mediterranean plants. In Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) available P, pH, K+, Mg++, EC and NO3- in the soil and TiO2, Al2O3, MgO and K2O in the rock are the factors affecting species diversity and distribution in the Tokatli Canyon area.