ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NATURAL HABITATS OF SOME VICIA L. SPECIES (FABACEAE) IN NORTHEASTERN ALGERIA
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Date
2022-06
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researchgate
Abstract
Abstract
Within the framework of the evaluation and development of plant genetic resources of fodder and pastoral interest in
Algeria, a study was conducted on the characterization of the natural habitats corresponding to some Vicia species
(Fabaceae). Following a prospecting and collection mission carried out across north-eastern Algeria (Blida, Boumerdes,
Bouira, Tizi ouzou, Béjaia, Sétif), seven species were identified (Vicia sativa, Vicia disperma, Vicia monardi, Vicia
narbonensis, Vicia ochroleuca, Vicia onobrychoides and Vicia lutea). Fifty (50) sites and five species were selected. For each
site, three soil samples were randomly chosen. Sixteen (16) physico-chemical parameters were analysed (soil pH,
conductivity, total limestone, total nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, carbon, organic matter, C/N ratio, soil texture
composition). Two (02) factors related to the topography (altitude) and climate (rainfall) of the natural habitats of the various
vetches were also considered. The results of the variance analysis (anova and manova), applied to the physical and chemical
characteristics of soils, indicated very highly significant variability in the majority of cases. Vetch species are adapted to
soils of various textures, however, they are more frequently encountered on soils of balanced textures. Vetches are often
found on soils of basic pH, less frequently on acidic or neutral soils. Many significant relationships have also been
highlighted, particularly between most of the physico-chemical characteristics of the soils and some climatic and
topographical factors (altitude, rainfall). The hierarchical analysis highlighted several groups of sites which confirming the
observed variation. The work highlighted the wide capacity of Vicia species to adapt to different ecological conditions,
particularly Vicia sativa and Vicia disperma. This work is a contribution to the conservation and enhancement of fodder
legumes in Algeria, especially the endemic and rare ones, which would be threatened and endangered.