Iranian Journal of Applied Ecology

Rotten and dead trees are the main component of forest ecosystems and play an important role in maintaining forest biodiversity. In this research frequency and characteristics of large diameter trees (normal, rotten, and dead trees) with diameter at breast height greater than 60 cm were studied in two compartments (selective logged and protected) in Asalem-Nav forest. Random systematic sampling method with grid of 100 × 100 m and plot area of 0.2 ha was used for data collection. The results showed frequency and volume of large diameter trees of all three groups in the logged parcel were lower than protected parcel (P < 0.01). The height of rotten trees and dead trees in the protected compartment were greater than logged compartment (P < 0.01). Thick trees of all three groups in the protected compartment were compounded from more species than logged compartment as well. Cavities created by forest birds on the bole of rotten trees and dead trees have more frequency in the protected compartment than the logged compartment. This research indicated that protection of rotten trees, dead trees and remaining thicker trees from different species have special importance for protection of natural structure and biodiversity of forest stands.