English abstract
The distribution of the wild olive, Olea europaea on the western region of the Jebel Akhdar mountain was studied. The distribution started at an altitude of 1465 masl in the form of isolated and scattered trees. Cohesive woodlands localized at different altitudes, Four such zones at different altitudes were studied in detail. These were Al Shayf (1995-2028 masl), Sayih Qatnah (2025-2040 masl), Hail El Mispit (2200-2377 maşl) and Al Graier (1935-2000 masl). The distribution of O. europaea was contagious in the four zones. A total of 20 plots (300 x 200 m) were used to assess the status of the trees in the four zones. The relationship between the density and the topographic variables was analyzed. There was a significant difference in the density of trees in the four altitudinal ranges. The maximum density was at altitudes ranging from 2100 to 2300 masl. Slope direction and habitat type did not density significantly.
The population structure of O. europaea in the four different zones was assessed. The heights of trees were normally distributed in the four zones. There were significant differences in the heights of trees between the four zones. Trees in Hail El Mispit (zone 3) were taller than those in other zones. Unlike height data, circumferences were skewed. There were significant differences in circumferences in the four zones. Heights and circumferences showed a dependent relationship in zones 2 and 3, whereas this relationship was absent in zones 1 and 4.
Health status of trees in the four zones was assessed. Most trees in the four populations were in poor and moderate health, except in zone 2 (Sayih Qatnah) where a high number of trees were in a good condition.. The assumed pote reproductive capacity of the populations in the different zones varied and zone 3 had the highest percentage of trees that are capable of reproducing. The potential reproductive capacity of trees in zones 2 and 3 were associated with tree health, while this association was absent in zones 1 and 4. There were no relationships between woodland characteristics, soil texture, soil particle size or soil chemistry.
