Geology Reference
In-Depth Information
Fig. 8 a
Simplied sketch and longitudinal section of the eastern
branch of the El Goraan cave in Beddouza headland.
b
The entrance to
the cave.
c
,
d
Diverse stalactitic and stalagmite structures, resulting
from ground-water ow
3.2
Ecological Geosites
3.2.1 Wetlands: Sidi Moussa
—
Oualidia Lagoon
Complex
The region, situated along the Atlantic coast, is well known
for its wetlands, which are resources with a rich biodiversity.
Covering an area of approximately 10,000 ha, the Oualidia
and Sidi Moussa lagoons were classi
ed as a
Ramsar
site in
2005, and as a Site of Biological and Ecological Interest
(SIBE) (Fig.
10
). These ecosystems are relatively rich in
endemic species and represent important breeding and
wintering sites as well as a stopover area for hundreds of
thousands of migratory birds. Several rare or endangered
species at risk of extinction, such as the
Black
-
winged Stilt
,
are resident here: The lagoons are the only site of interna-
tional importance for the
Black
-
winged Stilt
in Morocco (El
Hamoumi et al.
2000
; El Hamoumi and Dakki
2010
;
Benajah et al.
2010
), and the wetlands play a key role in
maintaining the ecological balance of most ecosystems, in
addition to the important socio-economic bene
Fig. 9
Oualidia cave of marine origin, modi
ed by human activities
also been well known for the instability and subsidence of its
substrate, leaving the coastal escarpments vulnerable to
collapse. A detailed study of the area is considered neces-
sary, in order to minimize the consequences of any such
collapse which would impact on the local inhabitants and
infrastructure.
ts they bring
to the surrounding areas, especially through tourism.
