The influence of Acacia tortilis (Forssk.) Subsp. raddiana (Savi) and livestock grazing on grass species composition, yield and soil nutrients in arid environments of South Tunisia

The objectives of the study, conducted during the 2003/2004 growing season in the National Park of Bou Hedma (South Tunisia), were to quantify the effects of the single-woody species Acacia tortilis subsp. raddiana on grass species composition, on total plant cover, on density of perennial species, on dry matter (DM) yield and on soil nutrients at lightly and heavily grazed sites. In each study site, two subhabitats were distinguished, i.e. under tree canopies and open grasslands. In the lightly grazed site, the nutrient status of soil (organic matter, total N, extractable P, K+, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+) under Acacia raddiana canopy, was found to be significantly higher (p<0.05) than under the open grassland. In the same way, total plant cover (p<0.05), density of perennial species (p<0.01) and DM yield (p<0.01) were significantly higher under tree canopies in the lightly grazed site. Heavy grazing proved to exert a strong overriding effect over the positive influences of the woody plants. For most studied parameters, a non-significant difference was recorded between canopied and uncanopied subhabitats. Some palatable species were frequently found under trees. In the heavily grazed site, these species are being replaced by less desirable species. This emphasizes the importance of conservation stocking rates and proper pasture management.