The Caspian Hyrcanian Mixed Forests ecoregion is a narrow arc of dense montane, deciduous forest located in Iran and a portion of Azerbaijan (Zist Online).  Situated between the southern coast of the Caspian Sea and the steep northern slope of the Alborz Mountain range, the complex topography, atmospheric circulation patterns, and the marine effect of winds that sweep the Caspian Sea bring heavy rainfall, high humidity, and cooler temperatures in contrast with other parts of Iran. 

The ecosystems that developed as a result of the unique climatic conditions date back 25 to 50 million years. These features have allowed a broad spectrum of plant and animal species to survive the ice age, during a time which many similar species in Europe perished. As a result, numerous species whose fossils were found in Europe can still be found living in Hyrcanian forests. These distinct qualities make the forests an excellent genetic repository in the northern hemisphere and a reference for probable future programs on reintroducing extinct species in Europe.

Iran is at a critical juncture in its development with important decisions to be made about the status of its natural heritage. Hyrcanian Forests represent an opportunity for a prosperous future that guarantees clean air and water for generations to come. However, to realize these benefits a comprehensive, coordinated management plan with aggressive enforcement mechanisms must be employed. Reversing degradation that has occurred in recent decades will require an approach that prioritizes conservation over development and incorporates public participation as well as progressive reform. Failure to properly plan and implement these strategies will lead to continued and permanent environmental disaster (IUCN, 2020).

SPECIES HIGHLIGHTS

Referred to as “natural museums,” Iran’s Hyrcanian Forests are among the richest ecosystems in the world, providing critical habitat and/or nesting grounds for more than 296 bird species, 600 mammals species, 67 fish species, 29 reptiles species, and 150 tree and shrub species. The plethora of flora and fauna claiming home to these forests include many relic and endemic species with highly restricted areas of distribution due to specific habitat requirements uniquely supplied by Hyrcanian Forests (UNESCO). 

For example, Persian Brook Salamander (Paradactylodon persicus) and Gorgan Salamander (Paradactylodon gorganensis) are small, primarily aquatic amphibians known to inhabit mountainous streams with cool, fast-flowing water. These species - now considered to be synonymous - are endemic to an extremely narrow range of Iran’s Hyrcanian Forests, and are believed to  have survived the ice age thanks to harborage provided by the region's unique climatic conditions. But like all amphibians, these species are sensitive to anthropogenic activities, toxic substances, and climate change and are now threatened by extinction due to habitat loss arising from urban sprawl along the Caspian coast, agricultural development, logging, and increased chemical and light pollution.

While much remains unknown about Paradactylodon species and their specific role in Hyrcanian Forest ecosystems, amphibians including salamanders, frogs, and toads are known to control pests by eating insects like mosquitoes, as well as provide a host of important ecological services including nutrient cycling, bioturbation, pollination, seed dispersal, and energy flow through ecosystems (Cortés-Gomez, et al., 2015). Consequently, amphibian populations influence other species within their ecosystem and its processes (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services, 2015, U.S. Geological Service, 2016). As such, aggressive conservation measures must be undertaken to preserve the integrity of these important habitats for their natural history value as well as the important evolutionary ecological processes they provide.                                            

The impacts of newly introduced contaminants can already be observed in Iran’s Hyrcanian Forests. The Caspian Tit (Poecile hyrcanus), also known as the Hyrcanian Tit, is a small songbird species that takes its name from its habitat in the Hyrcanian forests of Iran and a portion of Azerbaijan. This species is known to be relatively quiet but lively and social, and can typically be found in flocks searching for larvae, insects and seeds between trees (Iranian Birding Club). Thanks to high humidity and the significant abundance of larvae and insect species that thrive in this climate, the Caspian Tit, as well as many other native nesting and migratory bird species are well supported by these lush forests.

Based on the IUCN’s 2016 assessment, the Caspian Tit does not meet the numerical thresholds for a Vulnerable status listing due to its large range and population size. However, concerns over the well-being of this species have increased as urbanization and agricultural pressures on Hyrcanian Forests have accelerated. In addition to changed species composition, a reduced tree canopy, and soil erosion, pollution in this sensitive ecosystem is impacting wildlife species at levels not yet fully understood. 

Like other members of the Paridae family, Caspian Tit assemble nests by spinning soft, delicate threaded materials from plant fiber to animal wool and hair, sometimes even spider webs, together around a tree branch or bush to keep eggs safe. According to Dr. Esmail Kahrom, ecologist and advisor to the head of the Iranian Department of Environment, detrimental foot injuries and mortality of Paridae and other avian species caused by plastic-based materials in the environment is not uncommon. In a recent instagram post, Dr. Kahrom documented these harmful effects in Northwest Iran where he and his team observed 6 dead Caspian tit chicks that suffered entanglement in plastic wire that was inadvertently used in nest construction. Plastic pollution and other contaminants must be managed and minimized if these unique ecosystems and the biodiversity they support are to persist.

In addition to rich animal diversity, Hyrcanian Forests support highly specialized flora that have developed over millions of years including many relic, endangered, and endemic plant species. Each of these species possess attributes that contribute to complex interactions that sustain the forest’s biological processes. The true value of the ecological services provided as a result and the consequences of degrading their integrity remain subjects of debate.

The Iranian Maple Tree (Acer iranicum) is an endemic species found only in the Hyrcanian Forest of Iran at elevations between 950 and 1,150 meters above sea level. Famous for their striking fall colors, trees of the Acer genus known as “Maple” have tremendous touristic value and are a foundational tree in forests that provide shade and food for wildlife.

According to the IUCN, Iranian Maple tree is classified as Critically Endangered on the basis of its small population size, area of occupancy, and extent of occurrence in the wild. With less than 50 individuals remaining within a 4 km2 area, the species is highly threatened by extinction due to the ongoing impacts of logging, agriculture, and climate change. 

Likewise, Alnus djavanshirii and Alnus dolichocarpa are additional endemic species classified as Critically Endangered and in need of urgent conservation measures. This genus, known commonly as Alder, are considered a “pioneer species” for their key wildlife benefits and ability to fix nitrogen in soils paving the way for other plants to grow where they were previously unable. Alders are typically found near waterways or in wetlands and are known to sustain a broad spectrum of life by stabilizing and fertilizing soils along stream banks and slopes. In addition to shade provided by their large leaf canopy, roots provide shelter for fish, amphibians, and otters, and their leaves provide food for beetles and other insects that eventually serve as food for fish. 

While the intricacies of each component part of the ecosystems within the Hyrcanian region are not well understood, there is broad consensus that Iran has a lot to lose in its forests.  

PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT 

The Hyrcanian Forests of Iran have been recognized as internationally significant and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under Criteria IX. This criterion is reserved for sites that are “outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals.” 

The area is governed nationally by the Nature Conservation law as well as Iran’s Heritage Law in protected areas. Management responsibility is divided across three agencies including the Iranian Forests, Range, Watershed and Management Organization (FRWO), Department of Environment (DoE) and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism. A National Steering Committee has also been established to ensure coordination across sectors. Under this multi-tiered framework access, use and resource extraction are legally regulated and/or prohibited. However, enforcement of these laws is inadequate (IUCN, 2020). 

According to UNESCO’s 2020 Conservation Outlook Assessment, comprehensive actions must be taken to address ongoing unsustainable activities such as overgrazing, illegal logging, and poaching so that weakened ecological connectivity can be restored. Litter and disturbance of wildlife due to increased tourism must also be addressed to preserve the integrity of the forest and the biodiversity that call it home. With enhanced enforcement and strategic management planning, weakened ecosystems are expected to recover. Proper implementation will improve the quality of life in Iran and will benefit the entire region. 

Iran has an impressive legal framework in place for environmental protection and has already taken substantial steps towards a more sustainable future for its wildlife and wild places. In an effort to protect Hyrcanian Forests, guarded gates at forest roads and overgrazed areas have been established, gas subsidies have been supplied to surrounding villages, and a generous insurance system for damages from predators has been implemented (State Party of Iran, 2018; IUCN, 2019). In addition to its commitments under UNESCO, Iran has made substantial investments in its tourism industry and appears to be on a new trajectory of environmental reform. However, strategic planning as well as consistent, swift enforcement of the law are essential to ensure effective implementation (IUCN, 2020).

Individual Iranians have an important role to play as well. Local citizens can embrace Iran’s natural environment and take ownership of its protection as a whole, and in the Hyrcanian region in particular, so that future generations can benefit from its immeasurable value. Small changes like choosing re-usable products, reducing the use of chemicals, and supporting local artisans are meaningful ways to contribute that will have a positive impact in the long term. The urbanization of rural life surrounding the Hyrcanian forests has resulted in a shift towards less sustainable products such as plastic bags. By returning to more traditional commodities like plant-based baskets, individuals can begin to reverse the detrimental impacts of this change.

CONCLUSION

With a rich cultural heritage, a favorable exchange rate, and a reputation for hospitality, Iran has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. Yet Iran’s Natural Heritage attractions remain unfamiliar in the West, presenting new opportunities for profound growth in ecotourism. In 2019,  the ecotourism market size was valued at $181.1 billion and is expected to reach $333.8 billion by 2027. 

New generations of tourists are known to prefer environmentally conscious travel characterized by adventure, personal growth, and social impact.  Western travelers are intrigued by the middle east and are eager to experience cultures and landscapes they have only known through media. Iran is uniquely positioned to thrive as an ecotourism destination in the coming years but attracting this audience will require Iran to demonstrate its commitment to environmental protection. This transition will not be without challenges, but successful execution will lead to immeasurable benefits as Iran’s reputation for environmentalism takes shape. A desire to protect our shared earth transcends cultural boundaries offering new opportunities to connect.