Forests and woodlands in Morocco: review of historical evolution, services, priorities for conservation measures and future research

Abstract

Forests and woodland ecosystems in Morocco play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and providing ecological and economic services. Despite advances in administration, technology, and research tools in Morocco, these ecosystems have received limited attention. This paper highlights the importance of forests and woodland ecosystems in Morocco, focusing on their economic significance and the factors that pose a threat to them. Furthermore, guidelines are provided for appropriate conservation measures and future research to better understand the current situation of forests in Morocco. The results show that Moroccan forests and woodlands are rich in flora and fauna, including species with significant economic value, such as medicinal plants. These ecosystems also provide important ecological services, such as serving as habitats for endemic and threatened species. Despite the efforts of the government, human activities have negatively affected these ecosystems. To ensure that these resources are preserved for future generation, we recommend considering the human element as a central factor in all conservation approaches and actions.

Missing Landscapes: A Geohistory of Parkland Landscapes in Northwestern Morocco

“…Other more ordinary landscapes of trees outside of forests, landscapes which are less esthetically interesting or whose production is more marginal, are also threatened or have already disappeared [4,[12][13][14]17]. These landscapes represent, nonetheless, an intergenerational legacy where much is at stake, both ecologically and economically [55], but most especially, on a sociocultural and symbolic level [9,56]. On the other hand, the traditional agroforestry systems have received increasing attention in recent decades for their multifunctional role and as a sustainable development model in a world facing global changes [57].…”

Assessment and Optimization of the Insecticidal Properties of γ-Al2O3 Nanoparticles Derived from Mentha pulegium By-Products to Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Carob Beetle)

“…In Moroccan forests, specifically in the Middle Atlas regions, there have been numerous instances where indigenous and introduced insect pests have demonstrated varying degrees of responsiveness to climate change in terms of their distribution and impact [ 5 ]. For instance, the hardwood tree, notably the carob tree, holds paramount environmental, economic, and cultural significance as a key component of forest ecosystems [ 6 ].…”

Exploring the Bioactive Potential of <i>Cistus ladanifer</i> Leaves from Northern Morocco (Tangier)

“…Several studies have documented the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties of these extracts (Dar et al, 2023; Khade et al, 2023). Morocco, with its unique bio-geographical position, is home to rich vegetation encompassing a wide array of plant species renowned for their diverse medicinal properties (Benyahya et al, 2023;Lemhadri et al, 2023;Serbouti et al, 2023). These plants are used for their vermifugal, insecticidal, antipyretic, antimicrobial, antifungal, diuretic, and antispasmodic activities.…”