Effects of Topography and Climate on the Ecology of Taurus Mountains in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey

The Taurus Mountains in the south of Turkey are an orogenic belt mainly lying in the west-east direction with western and central parts located on the Mediterranean coastline. The altitude of this mountainous chain exceeds 3000 meters at some places. This study was carried out in order to determine the ecological effects of the topographical and climatic factors on Taurus Mountains. The data on the area and the subject was surveyed, collected, analyzed, and classified in terms of the relevance to the topic and the area. A Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of the Taurus Mountains and its vicinity was created to determine the topographical conditions. 1/500.000 scaled maps were used to determine the geological features of the area. Data on geology, topography, and climate were compiled. Climatic data was provided by different meteorological stations and evaluated. The ecological conditions of the study area were also determined. A map; displaying the data obtained and the ecological conditions of the area; was produced. All fundamental data on topography was compared with ecological features in order to find out the interrelationships. Three distinct vegetation belts were detected. The aspect factor is important for the reception of solar radiation and wind, and for the prevention of the fronts. Slope inclination is the main factor for soil and parent material erosion.