Belkacem Gordo, Hamid Khamar, Emilio Laguna, Filip Verloove

An update and catalogue of alien vascular plant species in the Naâma region of Algeria

Abstract Arid Mediterranean ecosystems undergo profound transformation when subjected to aridification caused by climate change and human activity. These fragile environments are vulnerable to the proliferation of alien species. This study presents an updated and comprehensive list of alien vascular plants recorded in the Naâma region of Algeria between 2022 and 2025. The catalogue includes 51 taxa (49 species, one hybrid and one variety), belonging to 20 families and 40 genera. Two of these were observed for the first time in Algeria: Atriplex suberecta and Euphorbia hypericifolia. Morphological characteristics and notes on geographical origin, distribution, ecology and degree of naturalisation are provided for each of these species. Additionally, an overview of all other non-native taxa in the study area is provided, ranging from rare to common. With the exception of Atriplex canescens, which invades steppe formations, all other alien species are found in more or less humid soil.

Doi https://doi.org/10.35513/Botlit.2025.3.4

Keywords alien species, arid lands, checklist, flora, steppes

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