Determination of horizontal and vertical distribution of Calabrian pine stands in Turkey using SRTM satellite data and GIS

Abstract

Forest areas in Turkey are generally spread on rugged terrain and different elevations. Site factors such as location, elevation from sea level, aspect and slope are effective on an ecosystem's climate, soil characteristics, and hence vegetation. Description of such characteristics will allow for the description of forest ecosystems living on these sites and comparison of such ecosystems to each other. Factors such as elevation, aspect and slope can easily be generated from Digital Elevation Models. In this study, using a digital elevation model obtained from SRTM (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission) satellite data and 1/25,000 scale Forest Information System database, horizontal and vertical distribution of Calabrian pine (Pinus brutia Ten.), which is spatially the most extensively spread needled tree species in Turkey, (to elevation classes) is determined and the generated results (map, table etc.) are presented.