Plant Diversity of the Coastal Regions of Gulf of Aqaba, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Floristic diversity of the coastal regions of Gulf of Aqaba has been compiled based on the vegetation survey with consultation of literature and herbarium collections during two spring seasons of 2016 and 2017. A total of 109 species belonging to 86 genera in 36 families are recorded in the study area; of which above 50% of the taxa falling in 6 dominant families. Amaranthaceae 23% is the dominant family followed by Poaceae 17%, Fabaceae 7 and 3% Asteraceae. Various vegetation units belonging to three major habitats such as sabkhas, wadis and hilly areas, three life-forms and chorological units have been identified. Based on the physiognomic study the climate of the study area is classified as a transition zone between Mediterranean and sub-Saharan arid zone. A high number of ephemerals in the area indicate dry climate prevailing in these areas. Halophytes dominate along the coastal zone, ephemerals in wadi-bed and chamaephytes in foothills and slopes.