Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

COMBUSTION INTENSITY OF CISTUS PLANT FORMATIONS IN THE REGION OF TLEMCEN (ALGERIA)

Smain El-Amine Henaoui and Mohammed Bouazza

Abstract

Fire constitute a major disruption to Mediterranean ecosystems. The region of Tlemcen is an integral part of these ecosystems and it does not escape this scourge since it is characterized by sclerophyllous plant formations and Cistaceae scrublands including the following Cistaceae: - Cistus ladaniferus sub sp. africanus; - Cistus salviifolius; - Cistus monspeliensis. The plant ecology laboratory of Tlemcen (Algeria) began this study on Cistaceae to understand the evolution of this phenomenon by highlighting its flammability and combustibility. After testing these species (Cistus ladaniferus subsp. africanus, Cistus salviifolius and Cistus monspeliensis); the results show that they remain extremely flammable “5”1 or even flammable “3”; and this proves that these ecosystems are extremely sensitive to fire. The use by man of this Cistaceae scrubland shows the degree of fragility of these environments, but it also shows the regressive evolution. These species, with high seed reproduction, are favored by a repetition of fire that makes them more dominant in the current landscape. It would be advisable by all means and before reaching an irreversible loss of our plant genetic heritage to propose solutions of conservation and protection. Finally, the final elaboration of a map of fire-sensitive Cistaceae falls within this objective. Given this dramatic situation, the organization and prohibition of pastures, in these shrublands, remain essential and priority. The analysis of vegetation in this region has provided us with valuable information on the modalities and implementation of the different Cistaceae species we have studied.