Nine profiles were studied at Sadat desert area. Xerophytes growing during rainy season represent
the common plant cover. The studied soil samples revealed that soils contain high alkalinity, and
sandy texture. Palenological studies of the present and the past vegetation (in soil profile strata)
revealed the presence of pollen of seventeen families, twelve belonging to present cover ( Poaceae,
Typhaceae, Tamaricaceae, Cyperaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Fabaceae, Apiaceae, Lamiaceae,
Cruciferae, Plantaginacea, Convolvulaceae and Asteraceae) of present day, while five families
recorded at the deep layers of the profiles not represented in the surface layers (Juncaceae,
Caryophyllaceae, Oleaceae, Cucrbitaceae, and Geraniaceae). Also eleven families were represented
in the lower layers and uppermost ones. Ecological changes took place in the uppermost
layer of the profile, changing into desert habitat. This may be due to climatic changes and man
interference.