Spatial distribution of Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Mast. formations in north-western Algeria
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1
Research Laboratory of Sustainable Management of Natural Resources in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas, Salhi Ahmed University Center of
Naâma BP 66; 45000 Naâma, Algeria
2
Research Laboratory in Geo-Environment and Spaces Development, Faculty of Science of Nature and Life, University of Mascara, Street
of Mamounia, 29000 Mascara, Algeria
3
Research Laboratory in Environment and Sustainable Development, Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Relizane, Burmadiya
district, 48000 Relizane, Algeria
A - Research concept and design; B - Collection and/or assembly of data; C - Data analysis and interpretation; D - Writing the article; E - Critical revision of the article; F - Final approval of article
Biodiv. Res. Conserv. 2024;(74)
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ABSTRACT
Tetraclinis articulata (Vahl) Mast., syn. Thuja articulata Vahl, is mainly confined to the south-western Mediterranean region and considered to be endemic to North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia). This tree species is experiencing a significant regression of its range, in some cases irreversible. Currently, it is classified as an Ibero-Mauritanianelement. Our objective was to study the dynamics of land cover and even the possibilities of rehabilitation of this species. The forest formation based on Tetraclinis articulata, represented in this study by the areas known as Oued Fergoug and Béni-Khenies forests, has been subject to both regressive and progressive dynamics. An analysis and mapping of the vegetation over 48 years (1975-1994-2022) revealed that the forest cover, with an initial surface area of 3680.47 ha (61.36%) deteriorated dramatically in 1994 as a result of repeated fires and the drought that prevailed then, to 122.65 ha (2.04%) – a truly alarming situation. However, in 1994-2022 this forest formation experienced a significant biological recovery, so that the estimated vegetation cover is now 4292.64 ha (71.56%), with the appearance of dense woodland in an area of 13.18 ha.