Resumen de Distribution of the species associated with Phlomis aurea Decne along an elevation gradient in Southern Sinai, Egypt

Kamal H. Shaltout, Dalia A. Ahmed, Hatem A. Shabana

• The present study aims to assess and identify the plant communities associated with the distribution of Phlomis aurea in Southern Sinai in relation to habitats and elevation gradient. It also aims to assess the effect of environmental factors on its distribution to be used for its conservation through rehabilitation or restoration. Sixty-five stands were sampled to represent its distribution. In each stand, plant species, their density, frequency and cover were determined. Sixty-three associated species related to 56 genera and 30 families, of which 12 endemic species and 3 near-endemics, were recorded. Twentyone species were evaluated as threatened species (most of them were evaluated as endangered species). Compositae had the highest contribution. Saharo-Arabian elements were the most represented. Gorges had the highest species richness, while wadi beds had the highest species turnover. Significant positive correlations between altitude and both plant cover and density were detected. Four vegetation groups were resulted after the application of TWINSPAN classification and DCA ordination. Three of these groups were characterized by Achillea fragrantissima as dominant or codominant species, and one was charcterized by Phlomis aurea. Seriphidium herba-albumAchillea fragrantissima group had the highest species richness, while Achillea fragrantissima -Teucrium polium group- had the highest species turnover, and Phlomis aurea-Seriphidium herba-album group – had the lowest. The soilvegetation relationship resulted from the application of CCA indicated that altitude, calcium, bicarbonate, organic matter and fine gravels were the most effective environmental variables to explain species distribution.