Comparative analysis of two Atlas cedar forests in the semi-arid zone using remote sensing and field surveys: Boutaleb and Ouled Tebben case study

Abstract

Cedrus atlantica forests in Algeria’s semi-arid mountains face increasing threats from climate variability and ecological degradation. This study compares two climatically similar but ecologically contrasting sites: Boutaleb, with severe dieback, and Ouled Tebben, with active regeneration. We combined remote sensing analysis (Google Earth Engine) with field-based phytosanitary surveys. Data from CHIRPS, MODIS, and Sentinel-2 reveal persistent warming, negative water balances, and declining vegetation indices since 2015. Fire history diverges sharply: Boutaleb suffered multiple severe fires, while Ouled Tebben saw minor, non-forest events. Field surveys confirm pronounced stress and regeneration failure in Boutaleb, versus ongoing seedling recruitment in Ouled Tebben. These results highlight the role of fire and local factors in pushing Boutaleb beyond resilience thresholds, underscoring the need for targeted management: restoration and fire control in Boutaleb, and conservation-focused prevention in Ouled Tebben.