Effets de l’âge des plantations de figuier de Barbarie (Opuntia ficus indica f. inermis) sur les propriétés du sol et la végétation à Tébessa (zone semi-aride de l’est algérien)

Algerian steppes rangeland biological reclamation has to be based on the choice of plant species with ecological parameters requirement, such as drought tolerance and ability to grow in soils with low fertility and quality. Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus indica L.) is a potentially interesting species to be considered. The aim of this study is to prospect the impact of prickly pear plantations (0, 5, and 20 years old) on soil characteristics and plant biodiversity. Plantations located in Tebessa, a semi arid zone of eastern Algeria, were chosen in which soil was sampled for physico-chemical analysis : pH, electrical conductivity, water content, the rates of total and active calcareous, organic matter, nitrogen and available phosphorus. Cover rates, abundance, specific richness and plant diversity were observed and evaluated. Results of analysis of variance showed statistical significant effects of plantation age on organic matter, water content, active calcareous and soil cover rates. These results suggest that Opuntia ficus indica plantations in semi arid zones could contribute to improve soil conditions and plant species abundance.