Characterising of Plant Cover Evolution in the Aurès Region (Eastern Algeria)

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 Aures 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 (manifest in fires, overgrazing, illegal cutting, etc.) exerted on the vegetation as a whole. It will therefore become more than necessary to take measures to protect and preserve the region's rich ecological heritage.