Intra and interspecific variability of Quercus suber and Quercus canariensis, an intrinsic water-use efficiency approach for differentiation

Abstract In Tunisia, the oak forest is essentially restricted to north-west (Kroumirie and Mogods), which wettest zone of country. It forms ecosystems great ecological socio-economic interest. This a significant source income for local population. addition, it contributes soil conservation home rich diversified fauna flora offers region picturesque landscape. precious fragile capital currently threatened under effect various pressures, mainly browsing young plants being reconstituted vegetative competition regarding resources environment. Hence interest in studying intra interspecific variability oak, this study based on morphological physiological comparison two species Quercus suber canariensis with their cohabitation same area, was carried out by multivariate biostatistical analyzes using set data including traits, isotopic analysis leaves, water use efficiency, as well phenolic composition antioxidant activities leaves extracts. The results showed that leaf morphology efficiency are discriminating factors differentiation choose right specie will be used reforestation. Q. growing Bni Mtir characterized high intrinsic water-use biomass recovery. These let us suppose perfect reforestation given its ability produce large amount less water, what environmentalists demand.