Plant Diversity, Life-form Spectrum, and phytogeographical Distribution in Al-Mahwery Villages and Yabraq Valley, Al-Wadheea, Abyan Yemen
Year: 2025
Type: preprint
Abstract: This study provides essential insights into plant diversity in arid environments by examining floristic composition, life forms, and life span patterns across 50 sites representing diverse habitats such as alluvial plains, gravel plains, and wadis. A total of 291 species belonging to 175 genera and 61 families of angiosperms were recorded, reflecting a remarkable level of plant diversity in the region. The most species-rich families were Asteraceae (28 species), followed by Poaceae (23 species) and Apocynaceae (19 species). Regarding life span, perennial species dominated with 189 species, compared to 106 annual species. In terms of life forms, chamaephytes were the most dominant (39.66%), followed by therophytes (24.06%), phanerophytes (19.32%), hemicryptophytes (9.49%), geophytes (4.40%), parasitic plants (2.71%), and epiphytes (0.34%). This distribution indicates a Chamaeo-Therophytic phytoclimate, reflecting the adaptation of vegetation to harsh environmental conditions. Phytogeographical analysis revealed that the vegetation of the study area is influenced by two major regions: the Sudano-Zambezian and the Saharo-Sindian, highlighting the ecological significance of the area as a transitional zone with high biodiversity value.
Author: Madleen Obel
Institution: University of Abyan
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4410312356