Phytoecological Characterization of the Pistacia Atlantica Community in the Saharan Atlas of Naâma (Algeria)

Abstract

This study focuses on the phytoecological characterization of Pistacia atlantica in the Saharan Atlas of Naâma (western Algeria). A floristic inventory, conducted through 32 field surveys, identified significant biological diversity. The results reveal a systematic structure composed of 103 plant species, distributed across 81 genera and 30 botanical families. This floristic richness testifies to the importance of diversity and ecological plasticity in this pre-forest community within the Saharan Atlas. The Pistacia atlantica community exhibits unique floristic diversity, combining endemic Mediterranean and Saharan species adapted to the arid bioclimatic environment. This drought-resistant and structurally rich vegetation constitutes a valuable biological resource requiring conservation measures in the face of anthropogenic and climatic threats.