The impact of industrial pollution on the ecosystem of Réghaia Lake (Algeria)

Abstract

This study lies within the framework of the anti-pollution action plan of Reghaia Lake. This lake, partially fed by the ground water of Mitidja, is regarded as an area of international importance because it is the last vestige of Mitidja. It is currently the only wetland in the biogeographic area of Algiers, thus making it a stopover for migratory birds after their crossing of the Mediterranean. The area is characterized by a great diversity of flora and fauna, and a large variety of ecosystems. Reghaia Lake has a considerable wealth of flora estimated at about 233 listed plant species: the equivalent of 13% of the North Algerian flora. The area is also home to four species of rare birds, three of which are classified as threatened on the red list of the IUCN. Because of this diversity, it was registered on the Ramsar list in November 2002 during the eighth meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention in Valencia, Spain. The lake, which has a surface area of 75 ha, is also...