Ecological Restoration and Floristic Diversity of Steppe Vegetation in El Bayadh Province, Algeria

Abstract

This investigation focuses on the floristic composition of steppe vegetation formations in El Bayadh province, situated in the western part of Algeria. Our analysis of floristic diversity uncovered 194 taxa distributed across 37 families and 133 genera. Predominant families encompass Asteraceae (59 species), Brassicaceae (20 species), Poaceae (20 species), and Amaranthaceae (13 species). Identification of 15 regional endemic species further highlights the unique biodiversity of the area. Approximately 7% of the studied flora is deemed rare, with 9 species listed on Algeria’s register of protected non-cultivated plant species. Examination of biological types reveals the prevalence of annual Therophytes (41%) within the flora. The Perturbation Index (PI) measures around 57%, this confirms the presence of the phenomenon of Therophytization. The results of the comparison between the study stations confirm the positive impact of ecological restoration, such as the techniques of exclosure and forage planting, on floral richness compared to the open grazing station.