An oasis in the Central Anatolian steppe: the ecology of a callopse doline

Muhammed Zeynel ÖZTÜRK, Ahmet SAVRAN

Abstract

In this study, the ecological properties of a collapse doline located in the steppe of Central Anatolia were determined via micro-climate conditions, plant specimens, and high-resolution surface models. The collapse doline covers 8,708 m2 and has a maximum length of 121 m and a maximum depth of 59 meters. Annual, maximum and minimum temperatures show that the inside of the doline is hotter than outside during the summer months. Notably, the inside of the doline has much greater humidity than outside during the winter and spring months. A total of 156 plant species were identified in the doline. The coldest and wettest part of the doline is the steep north-facing walls which are covered with bryophytes due to the influence of shadow. While shrub forms are found on the south and east-facing slopes, the west-facing slopes are covered with herbaceous forms. Due to the geographic location of the doline, the aspect and slope properties and their microclimatic effects significantly influence the number and distribution of plant species in the doline. While bryophytes shelter on the north-facing slopes and the steep walls of the doline, shrubs grow on the south and east-facing slopes and herbaceous forms favor the west-facing slopes.

Keywords

Collapse doline; micro ecology; micro climate; semi-arid; steppe

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References

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