PJB-2024-200
Insight on dieback of Juniperus procera caused by climate fluctuations in southwestern Saudi Arabia
Hatim M. Al-Yasi
Abstract
Climate and soil characteristics-induced dieback in Juniperus procera episodes are globally reported among forest ecosystems, but they have been understudied in Saudi Arabia, particularly with elevation gradients. We analyzed climate and soil characteristics -triggered dieback events affecting the southwestern mountainous region J. procera scrublands in three sites (Taif, L1-L4; Al-Bahaand, L5-L7, and L8-L12 for Aseer site respectively, which are located in Saudi Arabia with trial to the biological restoration by adding NPK fertilizer (10 and 15 g/L) to threatened J. procera trees. Data displayed that the highest soil contents of N, K, P, Ca, and organic matter (OM), with the lowest pH value, were recorded at 3238 m elevation in (L10) of the Aseer region. Conversely, the lowest soil contents of N, K, P, Ca, and organic matter (OM), with the highest pH value, were recorded at 2672 m elevation in (L1) of the Taif region. Notably, Juniper populations implemented the highest healthy value (dieback 5%), with 2966 m elevation (L4) of the Taif region, while the highest dieback (72%) was recorded at 2780 m elevation in (L3) of the Taif region. Correspondingly, a significant negative correlation was observed between the juniper dieback with elevation and soil variables such as N, K, Na, P, Ca, and OM (r = -0.48, -0.63, -0.46, -0.48, -0.63, -0.41, and -0.48, respectively). Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between high elevations and the soil contents of N, K, Na, P, and Ca, with a significant correlation with the pH value. Hence, the study concluded the fluctuation of climate and soil showed a negative impact on juniper dieback.
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