Soil Conservation Strategies for the Reduction of Biodiversity in Mountain Soils: Example of Uludağ National Park/Türkiye

Year 2024, , 176 - 184, 30.09.2024

Hüseyin Sarı , Bahadır Atmaca

https://doi.org/10.56430/japro.1527517

Abstract

Uludağ National Park in Türkiye is famous for its rich biodiversity. The park serves as an essential habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna and contributes significantly to the conservation of various species. This study examines biodiversity conservation strategies in Uludağ National Park. Soil samples were taken from 17 locations near the summit where endangered endemic plants grow. Analyses of the soil samples reveal the relationships between elevation and soil texture components. According to the soil analysis results, there was a weak positive correlation between elevation and silt content (r = 0.414) and a weak negative correlation between elevation and sand content (r = -0.375). These findings indicate that silt content tends to increase and sand content tends to decrease with increasing elevation. The geomorphological features and soil structure of Uludağ National Park were also an essential part of the research. The region's metamorphic mica schists, granites and marbles affect the soil's physical properties. For example, soils are generally sandy and permeable in areas where granite parent material is present. In contrast, areas where mica-schist parent material is distributed are less resistant and more susceptible to erosion. As a result, effective soil conservation strategies must be implemented to protect biodiversity in Uludağ National Park. These strategies are essential to reduce soil erosion, increase organic matter accumulation and minimise the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, community participation and adaptive management strategies must be adopted for sustainable development and resource management. This study provides essential information for biodiversity conservation in the Uludağ region and contributes to developing conservation strategies.

Keywords

Alpine, Erosion, Soil, Soil Conservation, Uludağ

Ethical Statement

This study was conducted in accordance with all relevant ethical guidelines and regulations. All necessary permits were obtained from the relevant authorities for the collection of soil samples in Uludağ National Park. The research did not involve any human or animal subjects.

Supporting Institution

Namik Kemal University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit

Project Number

NKUBAP.03.YLGA.23.454

Thanks

This study was supported by Namik Kemal University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit Project Number: NKUBAP.03.YLGA.23.454.

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