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Geoadria, Vol. 26 No. 2, 2021.

Original scientific paper

https://doi.org/10.15291/geoadria.3203

Characterising of plant cover evolution in the Aurès region (eastern Algeria): using Landsat imagery

Houda Bezzih orcid id orcid.org/0000-0001-6066-224X ; University of Batna 1, Institute of Veterinary Sciences and Agronomic Sciences, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Laboratory for Improvement of Agricultural Production and the Protection of Ecosystems in Arid Zones, Batna, Algeria
Hamana Malki ; University of Batna 1, Institute of Veterinary Sciences and Agronomic Sciences, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Laboratory for Improvement of Agricultural Production and the Protection of Ecosystems in Arid Zones, Batna, Algeria
Abdeljalil Aissi ; University of Batna 1, Institute of Veterinary Sciences and Agronomic Sciences, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Laboratory for Improvement of Agricultural Production and the Protection of Ecosystems in Arid Zones, Batna, Algeria

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Abstract

A better understanding of the evolution of vegetation cover is a major concern for countries where mountain ecosystems are undergoing severe degradation. Mediterranean woodland ecosystems in general and those of Algeria in particular, are suffering from numerous types of degradation, be they climatic or anthropogenic. For this reason, and to have a better understanding of this issue and how to deal with it, we decided to carry out a study in the Aurès Mountains (eastern Algeria), where the phenomenon of degradation has a direct impact on natural resources. The evolution of the vegetation cover in the region was analysed, using remote sensing data (Landsat-type satellite images) over a 33-year period (1984-2017). A notably pronounced regressive evolution of the plant cover was attributed both to the phenomena of climate change and dieback (which particularly affected the cedar groves) and to the anthropogenic pressure exerted on the vegetation as a whole. Data sets from Landsat imagery show an decrease of dense and open forest area, -9,272.52 ha, and -12,953.30 ha respectively. It will therefore become more than necessary to take measures to protect and preserve the region's rich ecological heritage.

Keywords

regression; mountain ecosystems; climate change; anthropogenic pressure

Hrčak ID:

265970

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/265970

Publication date:

30.11.2021.

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