Floristic Characterization of Grassy Steppe Groups in Naama Region (Algeria)

Abstract The present work aims to illustrate the current state of steppe rangelands based on three plant formations: Stipa tenacissima, Lygeum spartum and Stipagrostis pengens, and to describe the different floristic processions linked to these species in Nâama region with an arid climate. The phytoecological study is based on qualitative and quantitative analyses through 150 floristic surveys carried out during the spring period of the year 2022 in Nâama region. The floristic analysis enabled the identification of 62 taxa belonging to 23 families and 53 genera. The floristic procession is very rich and diverse in the three plant formations according to the Shannon indices (between 2.85 and 3.59) and equitability (0.68 and 0.86), where Asteraceae and Poaceae dominate the herbaceous layer in the study area. The three plant formations have great ecological plasticity and occupy an important place in the steppe rangelands of Naama. They tolerate extreme environmental conditions (drought, aridity, sandy substrates) well through adaptations using various strategies for occupying these specialized environments. The floristic evaluation of the steppe rangelands is necessary, even mandatory; in order to assess the pastoral potential and to identify solutions for the restoration and rehabilitation of these degraded steppe areas.