PJB-2024-320
The influence of Retama raetam (Fabaceae) and livestock grazing on grass species composition, yield and soil nutrients in arid environments of south Tunisia
Zouhaier Noumi
Abstract
The aims of the study, conducted during growing season, in an afforested steppe (South Tunisia), were to quantify the effects of the shrub species Retama raetam on floristic composition, on total plant cover, on density of species, on dry matter (DM) yield and on soil characteristics at lightly and heavily grazed sites. In each study site, two subhabitats were distinguished, i.e. under shrub canopies and open grasslands. The herbaceous community (floristic composition, species density, total plant cover, dry matter) and soil characteristics (soil nutrients and soil water) were sampled using the quadrat method beneath and between 60 adult shrub of R. raetam (30 inside and 30 outside the park) and 20 open areas among the shrubs (10 inside and 10 outside the park). Results showed that R. raetam improve soil water availability, the nutrient status of soil (organic matter, total carbon, total nitrogen, extractable phosphorus), and has a positive effect on the understorey vegetation under arid conditions. Some palatable species were frequently found under shrubs. In the heavily grazed site, these species are being replaced by less desirable species. This emphasizes the importance of conservation stocking rates and proper pasture management.
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