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Abstract Lycium schweinfurthii var. schweinfurthii (Solanaceae) is a thorny perennial shrub bearing berry deep violet fruits at ripening. Twelve sites, including forty stands without fixed area to cover most the population, were sampled to represent current distribution and habitats of the target species, record the associated species and assess the edaphic variables which affect its distribution. Thirteen stands were selected to determine the phenological behavior in its different habitats and collect 432 seeds to be used in seed germination test. All the stands were surveyed to assess the size of threats upon this species. The present study showed that the current distribution of L. schweinfurthii var. schweinfurthii was declined and almost restricted to part of Deltaic Mediterranean coast of Egypt. This species can occur in five habitats: coastal sand dunes, flat sand sheets, roadsides, island sand dunes and canal banks. This plant is deciduous or evergreen according to type of habitat; it propagates by suckers arising from old roots producing new individuals. Seventy associated species belong to 27 families were recorded, and 13 vegetation groups were recognized in the study area after the application of TWINSPAN. The significant edaphic variables which affected the distribution of associated species with this plant were Mg++, Ca++, HCO3-, SO4--, pH and organic matter. This species has two flowering and fruiting stages during its life cycle around the year. Seeds of coastal sand dunes population recorded the highest percentage of germination (66.6%). This species faces two types of threats: the first concerned with its individuals where over-cutting shrubs is the most pronounced type of disturbance (75.0 %), the second with its habitats where coastal sand dunes was the most threatened (71.4 %). |