Geographical distribution of the Thuriferous juniper (Juniperus thurifera L.) and the influencing factors in the Atlas Mountains of Azilal (Central High Atlas, Morocco)

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present study describes the contribution of geomatic science in mapping and determining the factors influencing the spatial distribution of Juniperus thurifera in the high mountains of Azilal, Morocco. The methodology adopted is based on the use of a Landsat 8 OLI satellite image to determine the spatial distribution of J. thurifera and a WorldClim database to extract the climat conditions.The Digital Elevation Model (DEM) of 30 m resolution was used to derive the topographic parameters. The geological map was digitized and used to derive the different lithological classes. The results obtained show that the J. thurifera tree is distributed in four distinct biogeographic zones (Ait Bouguemez, Zaouit Ahansal, Anergui and Tifirt N'ait Hamza). It is mainly found on the North and/or West-facing aspect at altitudes ranging from 1600 to 3400 m, and on moderate-to-high slopes. It develops with a predominance of limestone, marl-limestone, and sandstone. It prefers areas withclimate types: cold to very cold semi-arid and cold to very cold subhumid. Well-preserved J. thuriferastands can only be observed in certain regions.. These results can be useful in selecting potential sites for reforestation of J.thurifera in similar terrain conditions to develop and manage this species in mountainous areas.