Chapter Flora and habitats on Algier’s coastline (Algeria): State of knowledge and conservation issues

Abstract

Coastal ecosystems are rich in biodiversity and maintain a delicate ecological balance. They serve to preserve biodiversity, protect against erosion and stabilize sediments. But they are facing major challenges. Coastal dunes in particular are being affected by a combination of human and natural pressures. They require the implementation of sustainable conservation strategies. Algeria's coastline faces a number of threats, including coastal encroachment and tourism. These factors have led to the degradation of coastal dunes, threatening flora and habitats. Conservation measures are therefore urgently needed. This study contributes to the assessment of some coastal habitats in Algiers through an inventory of the flora and the monitoring of a number of emblematic species. Meanwhile, a diachronic analysis of the flora has been undertaken in order to understand the fluctuations that have occurred over time. This diagnosis of the coastal flora and the major threats to the habitats provides information on their conservation status and serves as a reference for future conservation and restoration studies.