Etude de l'état phytosanitaire de la cédraie de l'arboretum de Ain Abassa

Abstract

This study aims to assess the phytosanitary status of the Atlas cedar (Cedrus atlantica) in the southern part of the Matrouna forest, located in the municipality of Aïn Abassa within the forest ecosystems of the Sétif High Plains. The study was based on a sanitary and dendrometric inventory carried out in 2026 in the El Karma area, covering a total surface of 7000 m², where a sample of 300 trees was selected using a simple random sampling method. Field measurements included trunk circumference, tree height, crown width, and the assessment of tree health through the observation of the main decline symptoms, particularly partial branch dieback, needle discoloration, and reduced foliage density. The obtained results indicate that the majority of trees are in good phytosanitary condition, with only a limited proportion exhibiting signs of decline. The study also revealed a predominance of intermediate classes of circumference, height, and crown width, reflecting a relatively young stand with a certain capacity to adapt to local environmental conditions. This study highlights the importance of regular phytosanitary monitoring and the implementation of sustainable management strategies to ensure the conservation and long-term persistence of this forest species in the face of climate change and various environmental pressures.