A Newly Documented Species for the Libyan Flora: Boerhavia erecta L. (Nyctaginaceae).Boerhavia erecta has been recorded for the first time in the flora of Libya. This widespread wild weed was collected in 2023 and 2024 from multiple locations, all include

Sh-Hoob Mohamed El-Ahamir; Khaleefah Salem Imohammed; Ibtisam S Alahmer

doi:10.36602/jsba.2026.21.43

المؤلفون

Sh-Hoob Mohamed El-Ahamir Botany Department, Gharyan University, Gharyan street,041, Gharyan, Libya https://orcid.org/0009-0004-6119-4408
Khaleefah Salem Imohammed 2-BotanyDepartment,Facultyof Science,Sabha University,Libya https://orcid.org/0009-0005-0181-2056
Ibtisam S Alahmer 3-College of Engineering Technology-Gherian https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8491-1357

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36602/jsba.2026.21.43

الكلمات المفتاحية:

Ariggiba Region، Sabha، erect spiderling، new record، Libya

الملخص

Boerhavia erecta has been recorded for the first time in the flora of Libya. This widespread wild weed was collected in 2023 and 2024 from multiple locations, all included in the regions Sabha and Ariggiba, and situated approximately 110 km southwest of Sabha city. This species, known for its adaptability to disturbed habitats and arid conditions, holds ecological significance in its native and introduced ranges. To facilitate its accurate identification and support future research efforts, a comprehensive description of the species is provided, along with data about the habitat and a distribution map. These findings offer valuable insights into the plant’s occurrence, ecological preferences, and adaptability within Libya's unique climatic conditions. Additionally, the study discusses the potential threats posed by Boerhavia erecta to native plant flora and vegetation. Emphasis is placed on the importance of monitoring the spread of B. erecta and conducting further studies to assess its ecological impact in Libya. This record not only highlights the plant's expansion but also underscores the need for continued floristic surveys to document and preserve the country's rich biodiversity.

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