Sacred groves are under-researched in Muslim countries so that their overall contribution to biodiversity conservation remains unknown. We studied 22 sacred groves and 45 surrounding woodlands in Northern Zagros, Iran, to compare taxonomic diversity, vegetation composition, and the conservation status of plant species. Sacred groves had higher taxonomic diversity and a more valuable species pool by sheltering numerous endangered plant species. Multivariate analysis indicated a substantial difference in the vegetation composition of sacred groves and surrounding woodlands. Traditional deliberate protection (because of religious values) plus some environmental variables were the main drivers of the distinct vegetation composition of sacred groves. Sacred groves are the only remains of old-growth forests in the border regions of Iran and Iraq and they are important refuges of biocultural diversity. To better link the conservation of nature and culture, we recommend encouraging local people to preserve spiritual values, myths, and taboos around sacred groves.

中文翻译：

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精神价值观决定着伊朗北部扎格罗斯北部林地的生物多样性，植被组成和保护状况

穆斯林国家对圣树的研究不足，因此它们对生物多样性保护的总体贡献仍然未知。我们研究了伊朗北部扎格罗斯的22个神圣的小树林和45个周围的林地，以比较分类学多样性，植被组成和植物物种的保护状况。通过保护众多濒危植物，神圣的小树林具有更高的分类学多样性和更有价值的物种库。多变量分析表明，神圣的小树林和周围林地的植被组成存在显着差异。传统的故意保护（由于宗教价值）加上一些环境变量是神圣树林独特植被组成的主要驱动力。神圣的小树林是伊朗和伊拉克边境地区唯一的老旧森林遗迹，是生物文化多样性的重要避难所。为了更好地将自然保护与文化联系起来，我们建议鼓励当地人在神圣的小树林周围保存精神价值，神话和禁忌。