Conservation Study of Myrtus nivellei Batt. & Trab. in Ahaggar Mountains: multiplication trials

Abstract

The Ahaggar Mountains in the central Sahara are an important refuge for many rare and endemic species adapted to extreme arid conditions. Among them, Myrtus nivellei is a relict species of high ecological, cultural, and potential medicinal value, found only in this region. This study aimed to support its conservation through germination and cutting experiments. The best germination rate (77.03%) was obtained with hot water pre-treatment using a substrate of equal parts sand and peat, under shaded and humid conditions. For cuttings, AIA gave the best results for leaf formation, although no root development. Although no plants survived to maturity, the experiments provided valuable information on seed maturity, collection timing, and propagation methods. These findings represent an important first step toward the conservation of Myrtus nivellei and the unique biodiversity of the Ahaggar Mountains.