Diversity, distribution and regional conservation status of the Egyptian tree flora

Abstract

AbstractThe present study aims at determining the phytogeographical distribution and economic potential and documenting the degree of risk to the extinction of tree species, and the changes these species have undergone over the past 20 years. Field surveys were conducted at many locations in Egypt between January 2017 and March 2020. From each location, GPS coordinates were taken and the number of individuals was estimated. Also, specimens and seed samples for each species were collected from different habitats as can as possible. Other data were collected through herbaria visits and existing literature. The recorded taxa were arranged alphabetically according to Angiosperm Phylogeny Group system (APG IV). Evaluation of conservation status was based on IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. In the present study, we applied Criterion B that concerns the geographical range in the form of both B1 (extent of occurrence: EOO) and B2 (area of occupancy: AOO). Calculations of both AOO and EOO and the assessment process were assisted using the GeoCAT software. Fifty‐seven taxa were recorded, and most of them occur in Elbanian sector. Among them, five alien species were recorded. Many taxa offered economic goods such as medicinal, timber and fuel values; and environmental services as shaders and phytoremediators. Fifty taxa suffered from over‐collecting and over‐cutting. Among the 52 native trees in the present study, 31 taxa are evaluated as threatened with extinction; 10 taxa are Critically Endangered, 16 are Endangered and 5 are Vulnerable. There are two taxa assessed as Near Threatened and 15 as Least Concern. On the contrary, four taxa fall in the category of Data Deficient. There are 28 in situ conserved taxa in the protected areas. Also, 28 taxa are under ex situ conservation. In conclusion, land‐use patterns, climate change and human impact lead to put about 61% of the trees in Egypt under threat of extinction. Consequently, nature conservation organisations should take an action towards the conservation of these valuable taxa.