Under the green belt plan, pine trees are to be planted in and around Tehran and other parts of the country.
The pine is not native to Iran. It arrived in the country with other invasive species such as Cypress, 50 years ago, reports YJC news agency
In addition to having negative effects on native plants and trees, pines can also carry new exotic pests and parasites into the country. These invasive species can affect biodiversity, said Mohammad Soufi, an environmental expert. Pine naturally doesn’t exist in Iran. Its origin is in bordering areas of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia and it generally thrives in the Caucasus region.
Not Logical
Given the arid and semi-arid climate of Tehran and western and eastern regions of the country, planting pine is not logical, as it needs humidity to grow well, the expert said. Also pine needles increase soil acidity after falling which can disrupt the growth of native plants. Further the tree blocks sunlight from reaching the soil and causes weeds to grow.
Pines carry fungal diseases and can transfer them to other trees in their vicinity such as Cypress. These diseases are common in some jungles of Golestan Province where pines have been planted.
Given the water crisis in the country and high water consumption of pines, its planting is ill-conceived, he said. Species such as bitter almond which grows in arid areas and also native species such as mulberry, ivy, yarrow, white willow and Populus euphratica are suitable alternatives for pines.
