Publications
Systematic review of a RAMSAR wetland and UNESCO biosphere reserve in a climate change hotspot (Ichkeul Lake, Tunisia)
Ichkeul Lake, Tunisia, stands out as a critical yet threatened Mediterranean ecosystem, serving as a RAMSAR wetland, UNESCO World Heritage site, and Biosphere Reserve. This systematic review highlights the lake's ecological significance, characterized by its diverse habitats and role as a vital overwintering area for waterfowl. However, it reveals severe environmental perturbations due to unsustainable water management, pollution, river damming, and climate change, leading to significant variations in salinity, water levels, plant productivity, and waterbird populations. The study underscores the urgent need for accurate hydrological management to restore ecosystem functioning and ensure sustainable water strategies, particularly in a region designated as a climate change hotspot.
Web-mapping for ecotourism development: Application in the Ichkeul national park (northern Tunisia)
A web-based GIS mapping tool, 'Géoweb Ichkeul,' has been developed to promote ecotourism and raise awareness about the ecological significance of Ichkeul National Park in Tunisia. This application offers a cost-effective, user-friendly platform for spatial analysis, benefiting various stakeholders including visitors, managers, and state organizations. The study demonstrates how interactive web mapping can enhance virtual exploration of the park, support sustainable tourism practices, and improve ecosystem conservation efforts. By analyzing the efficiency of web map usage across Tunisian organizations, the research highlights the potential of such tools to streamline ecotourism services and protect biodiversity in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Environmental Factors Affecting the Foraging Behavior of Herons in Ichkeul National Park, Tunisia
Herons in Ichkeul National Park, Tunisia, adjust their foraging behavior based on environmental factors. Grey Herons predominantly employ the 'standing and wait' strategy, while Great and Little Egrets favor a more active approach like 'walking slowly,' with variations depending on water depth. High temperatures and wind velocities encourage Little Egrets to adopt a quicker hunting technique, whereas high light intensity promotes less active behaviors. This study, conducted over 2009 and 2010, highlights the adaptability of heron foraging strategies in response to environmental conditions.
Breeding Biology of Squacco Herons ( Ardeola ralloides ) in Northern Tunisia
Squacco Herons (Ardeola ralloides) in Ichkeul National Park and Lebna Dam, Tunisia, exhibit high reproductive success but face variability between years. The study found mean clutch sizes of 4.51 eggs per nest, with hatching success at 3.67 and fledging success at 3.06 young per nest. Notably, later-hatched chicks (rank four) showed lower body condition indices (BCI) and growth rates compared to earlier ones, highlighting potential challenges for survival. Nest characteristics like height and diameter did not influence reproductive parameters. The research underscores the need for stricter protection measures at Lebna Dam due to its accessibility risks, emphasizing the importance of controlled site management in Tunisian wetlands.
Diagnostic écologique du Parc National lchkeul (Tunisie) après la construction des barrages: cas des oiseaux d'eau
A dramatic decline of nearly 40 % in waterbird abundance—down to about 60 000 individuals—has been directly linked to the construction of three upstream dams that reduced freshwater inflow and doubled lake salinity, from an average of 13 g l−1 before dams to 27 g l−1 after. This increase in salinity severely depleted Potamogeton and Scirpus populations, key food sources for herbivorous waterbirds such as ducks and coots, leading to their seasonal restriction to small river mouths and eventual disappearance by late autumn. The study analyzed monthly species richness and abundance data from 2001–2004, revealing significant seasonal variation with peaks in November and December (up to 50 000 individuals) and troughs in summer (as few as 1 500). A total of 71 waterbird species were recorded, with herbivores dominating the community but showing the lowest peak abundance since systematic monitoring began. The research supports the hypothesis that freshwater diversion and increased salinity are primary drivers of ecological change, threatening both vegetation and waterbird populations in Ichkeul National Park.
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