Dynamics of the anatomical variability of Artemisia herba-alba in Algeria

Abstract

In this work, the anatomical variability in Artemisia herba-alba Asso was studied based on 90 individuals taken from three different bioclimatic zones of Algeria (inferior semi arid, arid and Saharan) as well as the relationships of the dynamics of this variability with the distribution and adaptation of the species. The interpretation of the results of this study through the analysis of variance and the ascending hierarchical classification allowed us to detect a very high intra- and inter-specific anatomical variability, as well as the presence of a parenchyma of water reserves observed in individuals of each studied region. The existence of relationships between environmental conditions and the dynamics of anatomical variability have been established. The broad morphological structural variability thus determined and the genetic variability observed concur well with the results of our two other previous studies. This anatomical polymorphism could help in the selection of the most effective ecotypes to restore this species in degraded steppe ecosystems of Algeria and North Africa. Thus, this choice will allow us to keep their seeds in a bank of grains in order to preserve the species for possible future use.

Keywords

• anatomical polymorphism; bioclimatic stages; ecotypes; adaptation; distribution; ecotypes