Diversity of desert rangelands of Tunisia

Published Date
November 03, 2018
Type
Journal Article
Diversity of desert rangelands of Tunisia
Authors:
Mouldi Gamoun
Azaiez Ouled Belgacem, Mounir Louhaichi

Plants are important components of any rangeland. However, the importance of desert rangeland plant diversity has often been underestimated. It has been argued that desert rangelands of Tunisia in good ecological condition provide more services than those in poor ecological condition. This is because rangelands in good condition support a more diverse mixture of vegetation with many benefits, such as forage for livestock and medicinal plants. Nearly one-quarter of Tunisia, covering about 5.5 million hectares, are rangelands, of which 87% are located in the arid and desert areas (45% and 42%, respectively). Here, we provide a brief review of the floristic richness of desert rangelands of Tunisia. Approximately 135 species are specific to desert rangelands. The predominant families are Asteraceae, Poaceae, Brassicaceae, Chenopodiaceae, and Fabaceae. These represent approximately 50% of Tunisian desert flora.

Citation:
Mouldi Gamoun, Azaiez Ouled Belgacem, Mounir Louhaichi. (3/11/2018). Diversity of desert rangelands of Tunisia. Plant Diversity, 40 (5), pp. 217-225.
Keywords:
drylands
vegetation
species richness