Syntaxonomy of open oak forests on basalt formations in north Lebanon

Abstract

This phytosociological study of the Dreib Region in Akkar-Lebanonis the first on basaltic bedrockin Lebanon. Thesynusial methods isused and compared bynumerical classification. The latter shows satisfactory results when compared to the synusial manual classification. The followingplant associations are defined:Quercetum veneris–ithaburensis, Calicotomo villosae –Rhamnetum punctati, Eryngio cretici –Echietum angustifolii and Sileno aegyptiacae –Isatidetum lusitanicae.Consequently, the alliance Quercion ithaburensi is stated for the first time in Lebanon. Vegetationseries for progressive and regressive successions are also produced. Further relevés are required to consolidate additional associations that are depicted from both synusial and numerical vegetation classifications.