Evaluation of K-tree Distance and Fixed-Sized Plot Sampling in Zagros Forests of Western Iran

Three k-tree distance and fixed-sized plot designs were used for estimating tree density in sparse Oak forests. These forests cover the main part of the Zagros mountain area in western Iran. They are non-timber-oriented forest but important for protection purposes. The main objective was to investigate the statistical performance of k-tree distance and fixed-sized plot designs in the estimation of tree density. In addition, the cost (time required) of data collection using both k-tree distance and fixed-sized plot designs was estimated. Monte-Carlo sampling simulation was used in order to compare the different strategies. The bias of the k-tree distance designs estimators decreased with increasing the value of k. The Moore's estimator produced the smallest bias, followed by Kleinn and Vilcko and then Prodan. In terms of cost-efficiency, Moore's estimator was the best and Prodan's estimator was superior to Kleinn and Vilcko's estimator. Cost-efficiency of k-tree distance design is related to three factors: sample size, the value of k, and spatial distribution of trees in a forest stand. Moore's estimator had the best statistical performance in terms of bias, in all four-study sites. Thus, it can be concluded that Moore's estimator can have a better performance in forests with different tree distribution.