Anatomical and Adaptation Features of <i>Pistacia atlantica</i> Desf. to Adverse Climate Conditions in Algeria

Abstract

This work was conducted to assess the anatomical features of Pistacia atlantica Desf. under Mediterranean semi-arid climate conditions. In this study, phytoecological approach was used at different observation scales including the large ecological scale. 11 samples of P. atlantica species were randomly selected in order to study the anatomy of leaves and branches. The results show that leaves have palisade parenchyma occupying almost the entire mesophyll, measuring 100 to 170 µm. While in branches, the only pith occupies 38% followed by the xylem (24%), relative to the rest of the tissue (epidermis, periderm, collenchyma, pericyclic fiber, secretory duct and phloem). The current results suggest that P. atlantica species has xeromorphic anatomical characters, giving it great ecological plasticity in an arid environment. Moreover, this study shows that the human activities are causing local extinction of this rare species in Algeria.

Genetic Variation in Damaged Populations of Pistacia atlantica Desf.

“…Bechar is located in the south-west of Algeria, characterized by an arid climate with Saharan tendency and irregular precipitation. The interaction of Mediterranean and Saharan flora includes very high diversity, and therefore, deserves special conservation [8]. The high morphological and biochemical plasticity of P. atlantica Desf.…”

“…Unfortunately, in many regions, P. atlantica is facing genetic erosion after being subjected to overgrazing, bush fires, deforestation, desertification, pollution, and other adverse factors. Consequently, it is listed among the endangered species in many regions [7,8]. The genetic relationships based on morphological or molecular markers have been performed on the genus Pistacia to determine their taxonomy [1,[6][7][8][9][10][11][12].…”

“…Consequently, it is listed among the endangered species in many regions [7,8]. The genetic relationships based on morphological or molecular markers have been performed on the genus Pistacia to determine their taxonomy [1,[6][7][8][9][10][11][12]. Among the species of this genus, the Atlas pistachio tree is characterized by a remarkable morphological variability that allows it to adapt to different ecological conditions [6][7][8][9].…”