Dynamics of the natural regeneration of a natural zeen oak ( Quercus canariensis Willd.) forests in Kroumirie, north-western Tunisia

The present work focuses on determining the state of the Quercus canariensis (zeenaie) forest in Kroumirie. Then, we have studied the influence of the distances of the closest human settlements on the diametric structure of Quercus canariensis . Finally, we have identified the relationship between the different diameter classes and natural regeneration by seed. The result following the examination of 80 studied files showed that the structure of Quercus canariensis in Kroumirie is essentially represented by the classes of seedlings (72.5%) and seeds (23.9%). The intermediate classes are less represented, with the diameter classes oscillate between C2 (7.8%), C3 (10.3%), and C4 (23.9%). The Pearson correlation matrix result reveals the significant effect of the distance from the nearest human settlements on the density and diametric structure of Quercus canariensis in Kroumirie. The most balanced stands are located in places furthest from human settlements forest populations. It is found that the diametric structure affected the natural regeneration by seed. Our founding allows us to develop new insight into the future of the Quercus canariensis forest and to practice large-scale artificial regeneration in well-protected areas.