STRUCTURAL AND FLORISTIC CHARACTERIZATION OF THE OULED BECHIH FOREST (ALGERIA)

The objective of this study is the rational management of forest ecosystems for sustainable conservation of floristic biodiversity. Two types of analysis are carried out: structural analysis and analysis of the main species. A total of 22 families were identified, divided among 32 species. The dominant woody species are Quercus suber and Quercus canariensis. Fagaceae is the most represented family. The average values of species richness and Shannon diversity index are 4 ± 1.8 and 0.9 ± 0.30 species/plot respectively. The average density of woody species in the Oueld Bechih forest was 158 ± 28 tree/ha with an average basal area of 32.67 ± 0.74m²/ha. The height structure shows that trees in height classes is ≥ 6 has very high density, evidence of almost no natural regeneration. The total structure indicates that larger trees are more abundant. In effect, this work provides a database for the forest, but it represents only one facet to be considered in protecting and restoring it.