PJB-2021-574
FABACEAE IN MEDITERRANEAN ECOSYSTEMS: DIVERSITY AND PLANT NEIGHBORING RELATIONSHIPS FOR IMPROVING FORAGE QUALITY
Khalil Mseddi
Abstract
In Mediterranean dry grasslands, Fabaceae species were considered as a major factor for natural and unnatural restoration of degraded rangelands because of their N-fixation capacities. In the current work, the study of a low degraded Mediterranean rangeland shows a richness of 72 species from which 13 were Fabaceae species. For these species, morphological parameters, palatability and neighboring frequency were reported. Despite their dwarf size, Fabaceae species have a developed roots and can be associated with 35 species belonging 21 families. Positive neighboring effect was observed between high palatable Fabaceae (Argyrolobium uniflorum and Medicago trunculata) and low or non-palatable species (Bromus madritensis, Ononis secula and Ononis serrata). Non palatable Fabaceae (Ononis secula and Ononis serrata) have a high number of neighboring species more of them were forage species. The tap root system and the high nodule density of these species contribute to N-fertilization soil and promote the development of neighboring species. Poaceae, followed by Asteraceae then Planataginaceae were the most neighboring families associated with Poaceae, and thus the most benefit in restoration process.
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