Ecological and botanical diversity in Haloxylon Persicum community at Al-Qassim Region in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract EN

Haloxylon persicum is a vital species in desert environment.

Not only does it play a role in stabilizing sand dunes, but also conserves soil and water and reduces the rate of desertification.

However, the fact that the plant species is endangered poses serious consequences.

Haloxylon persicum is native to northwestern China, Russia and the Middle East and can withstand extreme drought.

This study was conducted in the Al-Qassim region of Saudi Arabia and the research areas were selected based on how they represent the ecological and botanical diversity of the H.

persicum species.

The researcher chose nine sites from the three areas.

The researcher estimated the vegetation parameters like the species coverage, density and frequency.

Moreover, soil analysis was also conducted in all the three selected areas of research.

Physical tests to ascertain the soil types were conducted to find the electrical conductivity (EC) Mmoh / cm, pH, total dissolved salts (TDS) as parts per million (ppm), Sodium Ions, Potassium, and soil texture.

The results show that soil factors play an important role in the survival and distribution of H.

persicum species starting with the emergence as well as establishment of the seedlings.

The researcher concludes that to protect the H.

persicum community, it is important to stop overgrazing the plants and using it as the main source of wood for charcoal.

It is critical that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other nations in which H.

persicum exists protect the species because of the role it plays to the desert topography.