Comparative effects of dominant forest tree species on soil characteristics and nesting behaviour of wasp (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) of Buner, Pakistan

The aim of the present study was to find out the comparative effects of dominant forest tree species and their role in improving, enhancing the soil profile with perceiving the Vespid fauna in the visited area (District Buner). For this purpose, seven samples were collected through composite method and then mixed with resulting one sample. Two way factor ANOVA were used to analyse the soil pH, K, EC, P, SOC. The results showed that forest tree species cover the different effects on soil characteristics. The pH value were noted highest (7.174) at depth of 0-15 cm whereas lowest (6.618) at depth of 16-30 cm in mixed forest, the Bulk Density were recorded 1.8768 g/cm3 at 31-45 cm whereas lowest 1.085 g/cm3 at 0-15 cm depth. The soil organic matter were found highest (1.008%) in Chir pine forest at depth of 0-15 cm whereas lowest (0.66%) at 31-45 cm in the same forest. Soil phosphorus were found to be maximum (8.76%), at middle 16-30 cm and lowest (6.52%) at the top soil 0-15 cm, Potassium were maximum (148 mg/kg) at top soil 0-15 and noticed (128 mg/kg) at 16-30 cm. SOM and N showed nearly close significant relation, while BD and EC have non-significant. Tree species can also be effected by different ecosystem components i.e pollution, topography, altitude and atmosphere. It was also observed that insects of the order hymenoptera: family vespidae prepare their nest in these trees with the reference to soil composition. More study will be required for the effect of tree species selection for long term conservation purposes, understand the mechanism and importance of such interaction that will be ultimately beneficial productivity for healthy and sound environment.