Marais de la Macta
- Country:
- Algeria
- Site number:
- 1059
- Area:
- 44,500.0 ha
- Designation date:
- 02-02-2001
- Coordinates:
- 35°38'52"N 00°06'16"W
Map
Photos
Overview
The Site is a triangular depression separated from the Gulf of Arzew near Oran by a dune cordon, a complex of open water, marsh and more or less humid steppe some nine miles inland, supplied by three permanent wadis. The Site is rare in North Africa in the diversity of habitats it contains, most notably sansouires or salt marshes which recall the Camargue in France. A rich biodiversity is found there, including a great variety of halophilic vegetation as well as numerous invertebrates and fish. The Site is also a nesting ground for waterbirds such as the marbled duck (Marmaronetta angustirostris) and ruddy shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea). The dunes are home to several rare plant species that deserve special protection, such as sea rocket (Cakile maritima) and sea grape (Ephedra distachya). The wetland is important for both local residents and nomads, particular during dry seasons, as pasturage for their cattle and their sheep respectively. The classification of the Site as Natural Reserve would allow the human activities to be regulated and help to maintain its rich ecological zones.