Genetic Diversity Determination for Peganum Harmala Species using Shannon's, Simposn, Eveness, Density and Richness Parameters In Jordan

Abstract

The diversity indices are very essential components to estimate the plant species diversity at ecosystems.  Peganum harmala is  an essential medicinal plant with high value of phytochemicals as well it has  fertility potential in sheep. It is considered as an indicator for climate change particularly at the arid regions.  This research was carried out to investigate the plant species diversity of desert area at four sites representing different habitats within Ma'an governorate southern part of Jordan via comparison  biodiversity indices. Quadrat-transect method was randomly used to determine the density, richness, dominance and evenness indices under selected sites. Results of plant species list showed 23 taxa recorded. Peganum harmala registered the high density value (0.667) during the year 2013 at Adruh site, while high frequency value (0.800) was found  at Ma'an site. The year 2013 showed high plant diversity compared to 2014. During 2013 and 2014 Wadimusa recorded the high Shannon's index 1.998 and 1.488, respectively compared to the other sites. Two medicinal plants were recorded during this study namely Achillea fragrantissima and Artemisia herba alba used as antidiabetic disease in the folk medicine. Studying the desert biodiversity is a crucial for evaluate the health of rangeland ecosystems.

Keywords: Diversity, Biodiversity, Ecosystem,  Harmal, Medicinal plant,