Lacs Isly-Tislite. 15/01/05; Errachidia; 800 ha; 32°13'N 005°35'W. Parc National du Haut Atlas Oriental, Site of Biological and Ecological Interest. Lakes Isly and Tislite are the second and third highest lakes in North Africa, at 2270m and 2225m respectively, situated in the Haute Atlas mountain range. They are unique because of their great depth; the fact they are two of only three Moroccan lakes that are not eutrophic; their karstic or pseudo-karstic origin; and their situation at the southern limit of the paleo-arctic region. They also host an autochthonous phenotype of brown trout Salmo trutta macrostigma. The vegetation in the area is steppic and snowmelt feeds the lakes. The lakes are important for recharging the groundwater table, while in their surroundings animal grazing is common, as well as sport fishing during summer. The main threats include illegal fishing, overgrazing and organic pollution by livestock and by using the lakes for washing purposes. In order to increase awareness on the ecological values of the site, a local association, ADRAR, is currently undertaking a research and information-sharing project financed by GEF, which is aimed at preserving biodiversity and the wise use of the natural resources in the area. Ramsar site no. 1480. Most recent RIS information: 2005.

Errachidia