Floristic analysis of the family asteraceae in Al-Jufra region, Libya

Abstract

The present study focused on the floristic description of Family Asteraceae in the Al-Jufra region of Libya. This description includes a list of plant species of Family Asteraceae and their life-span, life-forms and chorotypes. In 20 stands (25 m2 each), a survey of the family Asteraceae species was conducted in Al-Jufra Oases (Waddan, Hun, Zalla, Sawknah and El-Fugha). The results showed that, the family Asteraceae included 23 species, belonged to 19 genera. Launaea and Picris were the predominant genera with three species each These species were classified into 14 annuals (60.87 %) and 9 perennials (39.13%). According to life-forms, the recorded Asteraceae members were grouped into 14 therophytes (60.87%), seven chamaephytes (30.43%) and two hemicryptophytes (8.7%). The chorological analysis revealed that, the Saharo-Arabian taxa (8 species, 34.9%) were the most dominant type. Further studies are required to highlight the importance and conservation of family Asteraceae species in the study area.