A comparative study of the saproxylic diversity of a natural and a reforested forest in Morocco: Implications for conservation and ecosystem management

Laboratory of Plant Biotechnologies, Ecology and Valorization of Ecosystems, Chouaib Doukkali University - Faculty of Sciences, 24000, El Jadida, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: elaine.imad@ucd.ac.ma

Abstract

Moroccan forest ecosystems are rich in biodiversity. However, they are threatened by deforestation. To reduce this, the country has adopted plans involving reforestation. This study compares the diversity of saproxylic litter beetles in two forests in the province of El Jadida, Morocco: the natural Haouzia matorral and the reforested Chiadma forest. The Winkler method and Tullgren funnel were used to assess saproxylic beetles, which serve as bioindicators to evaluate the effectiveness of reforestation efforts. A total of 160 specimens were sampled in the natural forest, symmetrically and concentratedly distributed, with 3% being saproxylic. In the natural bushes, anthropogenic activities have caused a low percentage of species richness. Conversely, the reforested forest has a similar abundance and richness, with 85 specimens and 7% saproxylic. However, the distribution of specimens in the reforested forest is less symmetrical and concentrated than in the natural forest. The differences in species richness are attributed to the different systems present at each site. The natural scrub has an endemism rate of 33%, which is higher than that of Chiadma (13%). These results highlight the significance of management, planning, and protection efforts to conserve these natural ecosystems, which are a national heritage.