Algerian Coast Research Articles

Structural Characterization and Profiles of Saponins from Two Algerian Sea Cucumbers

Sea cucumbers are benthic marine invertebrate members of the phylum Echinodermata. Due to the absence of a rigid skeleton, these species have developed chemical defenses based on the production of saponins (triterpene glycosides). These secondary metabolites are bioactive molecules with a broad biological, ecological, and pharmaceutical spectrum. However, the saponin profiles of several species of sea cucumbers are not known yet. The present study aims to highlight the mixture of saponins in two sea cucumber species from the Algerian coast, namely Holothuria (Holothuria) algeriensis, which has been recently described in central and western Algerian waters, and Holothuria (Roweothuria) arguinensis, originating from the Atlantic Ocean and reported in Algeria for the first time in 2014. Saponin extracts from three individuals of H. (H.) algeriensis and two individuals of H. (R.) arguinensis were analyzed using mass spectrometry, i.e., Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS), MALDI-High Resolution MS (MALDI-HRMS), Liquid Chromatography MS (LC-MS) and tandem MS (LC-MS/MS). These analyses allow us to detect 11 and 18 elemental compositions for H. (H.) algeriensis and H. (R.) arguinensis, respectively, each presenting several isomers. In total, 13 new saponin structures are proposed, of which four are common between the two species, six are specific to H. (H.) algeriensis and three to H. (R.) arguinensis. The saponin profiles of the two species were compared to those of other species of the same genus existing on the Algerian coast and the results showed that they share non-sulfated saponins with Holothuria (Panningothuria) forskali and Holothuria (Platyperona) sanctori and sulfated saponins with Holothuria (Holothuria) tubulosa and Holothuria (Roweothuria) poli.

Experimental study and simulation of a solid desiccant cooling system installed in northern Algeria

An experimental investigation of a solid desiccant cooling system for a research laboratory on the Algerian coast has been carried out. The system utilized flat-plate solar collectors for regeneration and was evaluated through a combination of individual component characterization, system modeling (using TRNSYS), and experimental validation. The results obtained have been validated and show that the efficiency of the rotary heat exchanger reached 65 %, the evaporative humidifier efficiency reached 94 %, and the desiccant wheel achieved efficiencies of 73 % on the process side and 66 % on the regeneration side. This translates to a significant dehumidification effect, reducing absolute humidity in the treated air by 9 g/kg, for the supply air temperature effectively maintained at a comfortable 24 °C. The close agreement between the simulated and experimental COP values (1.13 and 1.08, respectively) validates the chosen approach and confirms the potential of this technology for energy-efficient building cooling in the hot and humid Mediterranean climate of northern Algeria.

Hermeneutic Cartography for the Restitution of a Lost Antique Seaport

This article deals with the reconstruction of an ancient seaport in the town of Bejaia, known as Muslubium Horrea. This settlement, ignored by the official historiography, would nevertheless have played an important role in wheat exports and trade with the Roman port of Ostia. Moreover, of all the ancient ports known to date, the Algerian coast has only two port warehouses, and Muslubium Horrea is the only granary belonging to the Roman province of Mauretania Sitifensis (400AD). The methodology adopted to locate and reconstruct the topography and the settlement’s structures is based on the concept of cartographic hermeneutics. The compilation of existing historical accounts and the interpretation derived from the superimposition of ancient geographical maps and 19th century archaeological and geological maps identified all the natural resources necessary for its construction, in particular the abundance of water sources and deposits of geomaterials for construction (clay, stone, gypse, marble, etc.). These data were confirmed by field and photogrammetric surveys, resulting in a map showing the archaeological context of the Muslubium Horrea port and the remains of structures still visible today. The approach adopted allowed to delineate the size of the port site and scale the structures that make it up, as well as identify the water supply source and its primitive topography prior to its establishment.

Microcotyle Tazeroutii n. sp. (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) from the Gills of the Boarfish Capros aper Linnaeus, 1758 (Teleostei: Caproidae) off the Algerian Coast, Western Mediterranean.

In this study we describe a new species Microcotyle tazeroutii n. sp. (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) found on the gills and operculum of the boarfish Capros aper (Caproidae) off the Algerian coast of the Western Mediterranean. Monogeneans were observed alive or recently dead on the operculum and gills using a dissecting microscope, measured and drawn for morphological study. Furthermore, a molecular analysis was conducted using a partial fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) of two specimens of monogeneans and a tissue sample of the fish's gills in which the parasites were found to confirm the identity of fish. The new species Microcotyle tazeroutii n. sp., exhibits a combination of morphological features that differentiate it from all other known species within the genus, such as the shape and the size of body, the haptor length, the number and the size of clamps and testes, the number of spines of the genital atrium and the size of eggs. Additionally, a molecular analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1 gene) revealed significant interspecific differences between Microcotyle tazeroutii n. sp. and previously published sequences of other Microcotyle species. The morphological and molecular analyses revealed that Microcotyle tazeroutii n. sp. has unique characteristics that distinguish it from all previously identified species and confirmed the presence of Microcotyle within the Caproidae family for the first time.

Assessment of Essential Trace Elements Cu, Zn, Mn, and Ni in Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from the Algerian Coast.

The aim of this study was to determine the levels of essential trace elements copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel in two size groups of mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, sampled from three sites along the Algerian coast with different levels of pollution. The results of this work are very interesting for determining the effect of mussel size on the variation of contaminant levels in environmental monitoring studies. Thirty individuals from 2 size groups, less than 4-cm and more than 4-cm shell length, were collected over 4 seasons at each site studied. The samples were dissected, and copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel were measured in the whole soft tissues by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The maximum concentrations of copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel expressed in mg/kg dry weight at the three sites were 54.01, 146.25, 20.69, and 8.85, respectively. A clear distribution pattern of the studied elements was observed in the two size classes. In fact, significantly higher concentrations (P < 0.05) were found in individuals with a shell length of less than 4 cm. Significantly, higher concentrations (P < 0.05) were found in individuals with a shell length of less than 4 cm due to their high filtration and low excretion activities compared to long individuals. In addition, metal pollution index (MPI) values were higher in small bivalve individuals. The trace element contents found in the mussel samples of the present study showed large spatial and temporal variations among the different sites studied, highlighting the typical exposure of marine sites to different marine pollutants. Notably, elevated concentrations of copper were observed in the port of Zemmouri, likely due to port activities. Conversely, the highest levels of manganese and nickel were recorded at Boudouaou El Bahri, potentially attributable to the use of fertilisers by agricultural activities. Some shellfish samples had exceeded the permissible concentration levels of copper and manganese, thereby posing a danger to bivalve consumers.

Diversity and distribution of Porifera on the Algerian coast (West Mediterranean)

The phylum Porifera has received limited attention in research studies along the Algerian coast. This study aims to compile a comprehensive inventory of Porifera species along the Algerian coast, spanning from the earliest documented work by Schmidt (1868) to the present day. The investigation meticulously catalogues a total of 136 species along the Algerian coast, distributed across 47 families, 18 orders, and 4 classes. This compilation includes 7 species endemic of Algerian waters, one invasive species, and 11 species protected by the Bern and Barcelona Conventions. Notably, the addition of 43 new species records enhances the original lists established by Schmidt and Topsent. Furthermore, this study presents a detailed analysis of the geographic distribution of these species, providing valuable insights into the biodiversity of the marine ecosystem in this region.

Evaluation of the ecological quality of the macroalgal communities along the Algerian coast (Algeria, Mediterranean Sea)

The assessment and preservation of the marine environment, particularly coastal ecosystems, has emerged as a global priority. In this study, the rocky bottom quality (CFR) index, which is based on macroalgae composition and abundance, was used to assess the ecological quality of coastal waters at six sites along the Algerian coast that represent a wide range of anthropogenic pressures. The sensitivity of the CFR index to the anthropogenic pressure index (MALUSI) was also assessed. Multivariate analyses (DCA, nMDS, cluster, SIMPER, and PCA) were used to assess the variability of macroalgal community structure. The CFR index calculated for this study was compared to the EEI-c and CARLIT indices. The CFR index classified the study sites based on ecological quality: good to high quality in the western sites (Ténès, Kouali1, and Kouali2) and moderate quality in the central sites (Fontaine, Fort de l’eau, and Surcouf). The findings indicate that the CFR and MALUSI indices are highly correlated. The abundance and composition of macroalgal communities are useful indicators of rocky shore quality, as demonstrated by structural analyses of characteristic macroalgae and opportunistic species. The competitive characteristic macroalgae of the Cystoseira sensu lato species were found to be associated with sites of good and high ecological quality. Stress-tolerant characteristic macroalgae (Pachymeniopsis lanceolata, Ellisolandia elongata, and Halopteris scoparia) and opportunistic ruderal species (Ulva rigida, Ulva lactuca, and Ulva linza) were found in sites with moderate ecological quality. The CFR index was compared with the EEI-c and CARLIT indices, and it can be noted that the three indices use different spatial scales, biological levels and species classifications. Therefore, CFR, EEI-c, and CARLIT indices are useful tools for assessing the quality of coastal waters.

First records of echinoderm species in the checklist of the Algerian coast (Mediterranean Sea), found off Paloma Island

First records of echinoderm species in the checklist of the Algerian coast (Mediterranean Sea), found off Paloma Island

Biogeography and ecology of the Algerian island flora

Background and aims – In spite of their proximity to the coasts, the flora of the islands and islets of the Algerian coasts has been poorly studied. This work is the first to provide an overall view of the richness and the determinants of the Algerian island flora. Material and methods – The study is based on a compilation of original floristic data. Two classifications of 30 islands and islets were derived from PCA and HCPC performed on the species occurrence matrix and on a matrix of flora descriptors including species richness, functional traits (life form, seed dispersal, pollination), and biogeographic range. We performed an RDA to explain the variation in flora characteristics by a set of physiographic (longitude, latitude, elevation, area, isolation, steepness index, and area/perimeter ratio) and biotic (seabird density and human presence) variables. Key results – The floristic inventory encompassed a total richness of 295 vascular plant taxa (including subspecies and varieties) on the 30 studied sites. Five main groups of islands and islets can be distinguished based on vegetation composition and three from flora descriptors. RDA model selection revealed that the combination of four variables (seabird density, area, latitude, and longitude) explained 26.6% of the variation in flora characteristics. Taken alone, the density of yellow-legged gull colonies and the island area were the main drivers of this variation. Results showed that floristic richness was associated with larger island area and higher seabird density, the importance of some plant functional traits, such as zoochory and entomogamy, and with a higher proportion of Eurasian holarctic species. Conclusion – In the context of island flora conservation, some of these small islands of Algeria can be considered as “modern refuges” from human pressures, and this is particularly important in the context of Mediterranean ecosystems characterised by a quasi-permanent human impact in various habitats. Two new important plant areas (IPAs) for Algeria are proposed following the results of these floristic inventories.

Simulation of the Mediterranean tsunami generated by the Mw 6.0 event offshore Bejaia (Algeria) on 18 March 2021

SUMMARY On 18 March 2021 an earthquake of magnitude Mw = 6.0 occurred offshore the Algerian coasts and generated a tsunami with offshore amplitudes smaller than a few millimetres crossing the western Mediterranean Sea. The objective of this study is threefold: first, to determine whether seismic sources calculated in the context of tsunami early warning are relevant; secondly, to determine whether tsunami simulations are able to reproduce tide-gauge observations and thirdly, to define the sensitivity of simulations to the grid resolutions and tsunami parameters. In the Mediterranean Sea, a very small number of available coastal tide gauges recorded the tsunami. Among them, a few French tide gauge stations recorded water waves with amplitudes smaller than a few centimetres and with periods ranging from 5 to 20 min associated to harbour or bay resonances. Numerical simulations of the tsunami are performed by the operational code Taitoko for seven different source fault models. Three of them allow for a rapid source detection and characterization in the framework of tsunami warning at CENALT (Centre National d'Alerte aux Tsunamis, France). The integrated code Taitoko uses a system of multiple nested grids. Standard Boussinesq equations are solved in the Mediterranean grid, whereas non-linear shallow water equations are solved in coastal and harbour grids with 25 and 5 m resolutions, respectively. Whatever the fault model, the observed time-series of water heights are reproduced satisfactorily both in phase and amplitude by the model at Nice and Monaco but poorly at Port Mahon (Minorca) and Toulon.

On the of seawater desalination environmental impacts and brine treatment based challenges and mitigation measures in Algeria

In this paper the environmental impacts of seawater desalination is investigated and highlighted. Indeed despite the various benefits of desalination there is growing apprehension about the potential negative environmental effects it may bring and generate. Both during the plant construction and its operation service. There is the possibility of leading and causing adverse environmental impacts. A significant concern with desalination is the co-produced and generated waste known as 'brine' or 'reject,' which contains high salinity as well as chemical residuals which are released into the marine environment. Viable and cost-effective brine management systems are necessary to mitigate the negative impact of brine, also referred to as concentrate, which is a by-product of the desalination process. This high salinity substance poses a threat to the environment and must be managed effectively in order to reduce pollution. Aside from brine other difficulties include marine species entrainment and trapping, as well as high chemical use. This paper provides an extensive overview and evaluation of desalination technologies used in Algeria including thermal methods such as Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) and Multiple Effect Distillation (MED) as well as Membrane Reverse Osmosis (RO). Furthermore in order to assess the potential environmental implications of desalination and brine treatment on the Algerian coast, mitigation strategies are proposed to curb the environmental negative impact. To protect water resources for present and future generations, improved brine management techniques are needed to minimize adverse environmental effects and lower the financial burden of disposal. This will encourage further advancements in desalination plants. Ultimately, the paper emphasizes upcoming research opportunities in brine treatment technologies with a focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of desalination.

Assessment of microplastic abundance and impact on recreational beaches along the western Algerian coastline

Microplastics (MPs) have attracted global attention due to their ubiquity and potential impact on the environment. However, MPs are poorly documented along the Algerian coast. To address this data gap, this study investigated the presence of MPs on three recreational beaches in western Algeria (Stidia, Sablettes and Mersat El Hadjaj). The mean MP abundance for the three beaches was estimated at 55.47 ± 48.01 items/m2. Characterization of MPs shape revealed that fragments (79.81 %) were dominant, followed by pellets (10.58 %), filaments (5.57 %), and foam (3.85 %). An assessment of the Microplastic Pollution Index, the Pellet Pollution Index, and the Coefficient of Microplastic Impact, revealed the presence of very low to moderate levels of MPs on the beaches. This presence was associated with minimal beach pollution and moderate overall impact. The sector analysis approach results confirm that there are two different magnitudes of MPs presence that can negatively impact on the environmental quality of the studied beaches.

Parasites and their host fish in the Gulf of Bejaia, Algerian coast

Parasites and their host fish in the Gulf of Bejaia, Algerian coast

First data on morphometric parameters of the European conger eel (Conger conger, Linnaeus, 1758) in Béni-saf Bay (Western Algerian coasts)

A biometric study was conducted on a benthic fish of the family Congridae, the European conger eel (Conger conger Linnaeus, 1758), from the western coasts of Algeria, from Béni-Saf. This study was carried out due to the total absence of reliable and exploitable information concerning the morphometric characteristics of this fish along the Algerian coast. It was based on statistical processing of 18 morphometric variables measured on each sampled fish. the comparison between months using univariate ANOVA and multivariate MANOVA statistical tests showed significant differences in morphometric variables measured on the European conger eel (Conger conger). However, regarding the sex factor, no significant differences were observed between males and females.

Assessing the Defensibility of Medieval Fortresses on the Mediterranean Coast: A Study of Algerian and Spanish Territories

This study focuses on assessing the defensiveness of medieval fortresses situated along the Mediterranean coast, including the Northern Algerian coast and Southeastern Spain. The proposed methodology involved a two-fold process comprising identification and evaluation. Initially, we identified and geolocated our case studies, deriving their locations from archival sources. We then seamlessly integrated them into a Geographic Information System (GIS) for precise georeferencing on a rasterized landscape. Subsequently, we conducted assessments of visibility, intervisibility, and elevation, which we consider pivotal in determining the degree of defensibility of the fortified sites. Specifically, the aim of this research was to investigate the intricate relationship between natural landscapes and architectural defensive features, with a focus on discerning the influence that the chosen location has on the strategic and defensive significance of the studied fortresses. Our findings reveal that the evolution of those defensive systems within our study context is intricately tied to the physical elements comprising the landscape. These natural constituents have served as a foundation for the architectural and defensive characteristics adopted by medieval builders. Furthermore, we delineated two distinct typologies: the isolated type, intentionally designed to obscure visibility, and the exposed type, characterized by a higher visibility index.

Redescription and Molecular Characterisation of Derogenes ruber Lühe, 1900 (Hemiuroidea: Derogenidae) from Chelidonichthys lastoviza (Scorpaeniformes: Triglidae) in the Western Mediterranean

PurposeDerogenes ruber Lühe, 1900, the type-species of the genus Derogenes Lühe, 1900, is a poorly known derogenid digenean. The original description of this species was not illustrated and aspects of the morphology of the parasite from the type-host remain scarce. Available records of this species were brief and/or lacked illustrations and were based on morphology alone. Additionally, molecular data for Derogenes spp. are warranted to untangle species complexes as they provide a better assessment of interspecific genetic divergence.MethodsDerogenes ruber is redescribed based on newly collected specimens from the gall bladder of its type-host Chelidonichthys lastoviza (Bonnaterre, 1788) collected in the Western Mediterranean off the Algerian coast during 2017–2019 and molecular data are provided using a partial fragment of the nuclear 28S ribosomal RNA gene (28S rRNA), the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene.ResultsWe herein provide a detailed illustrated redescription and morphometric data of D. ruber from its type-host C. lastoviza. We report a new geographical record (off Algeria) for it. Derogenes ruber is also genetically characterised for the first time. Species/lineages of Derogenes were recovered in five strongly supported reciprocally monophyletic clades: (i) D. ruber from C. lastoviza off Algeria; (ii) D. lacustris from Galaxias maculatus (Jenyns) off Argentina; (iii) Lineage “D. varicus DV1” (D. varicus sensu stricto) from fish hosts in the White and Barents seas and the North Sea; (iv) Lineage “D. varicus DV2” from mollusc hosts in the White Sea; and (v) Lineage “D. varicus DV3” from Eumicrotremus fedorovi Mandrytsa. in the Pacific Ocean. Hence, comparison of the newly generated sequences with other available data for Derogenes species supports the distinction of D. ruber confirming its taxonomic status and helping assess interspecific variation. Comparison of D. ruber with the closely related species Derogenes latus revealed overlaps in morphometric data and the validity of the latter species is questioned.ConclusionThe combination of morphological and molecular data provided for D. ruber provides a firm foundation for further investigations of Derogenes spp. Although we do describe herein material of D. ruber from the type-host, given that the occurrence of a single Derogenes species in various hosts has been challenged by molecular data, and both D. lacustris and D. varicus sensu stricto had been genetically proven to occur in various hosts, D. ruber and D. latus may be indeed synonymous. Additional sequencing effort on Derogenes spp. will strengthen systematic comparative studies and evolutionary relationships within the Derogenidae in general.

Assessment of toxic trace elements (Cd, Pb, As, and Co) in small, medium, and large individuals of Mytilus galloprovincialis and Perna perna mussel species along the Algerian coast.

This research paper focused on the monitoring of marine sites using mussels, which are highly valuable organisms in assessing environmental health. However, a significant challenge arises when determining the appropriate size of mussels for monitoring purposes. The objective of this study was to examine the levels of Cd, Pb, As, and Co in three different size classes of two mussel species, Mytilus galloprovincialis and Perna perna, collected from three sites along the Algerian coast, each exhibiting varying degrees of pollution.At each of the study sites, a total of thirty individuals from small, medium, and large size classes of mussels were collected during four different time periods. The mussels were then dissected, and the concentrations of Cd, Pb, As, and Co were measured in the entire flesh of the mussels using ICP-MS.Across the various study sites, the concentrations of cadmium, lead, arsenic, and cobalt ranged from 0.06 to 1.32mg/kg, 0.09 to 12.56mg/kg, 4.23 to 18.31mg/kg, and 0.11 to 1.85mg/kg, respectively. Interestingly, the distribution of these metals in the three different size classes of mussels followed a consistent pattern at all the study sites. Large mussels exhibited higher concentrations, while small and medium-sized mussels displayed lower levels. These findings highlight substantial spatial and temporal variations in metal concentrations within the studied sites.

Summer distribution of the Mediterranean sperm whale: insights from the acoustic Accobams survey initiative

The Mediterranean sperm whale population, Physeter macrocephalus, is listed as endangered due to population decline caused by human activities. To mitigate the impact of these activities, accurate knowledge of their distribution and abundance is crucial. During their long dives, sperm whales are not available to visual observation, but since they produce sounds when they dive, they are available to acoustic detection. Therefore, we aimed to use towed acoustic data to model their habitat and fill the knowledge gap on Mediterranean sperm whale distribution. Generalised additive models were used to link the number of sperm whales detected acoustically during the ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative in 2018 with different environmental variables integrated over different depth classes, encompassing the depth range used by the species for foraging. Sperm whale distribution was influenced by water temperature at the bottom, eddy kinetic energy between 200 and 600 m, as well as gradients of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a concentrations. The abundance of sperm whales was estimated at 2,959 individuals [2,077 - 4,265] in the sampled areas of the Mediterranean Sea. We predicted that sperm whales were mainly distributed in summer along the continental slope of the north-western Mediterranean basin from the Balearic Islands to the Ligurian Sea and off the Algerian coast. They were present throughout the western Mediterranean Sea and in the northern Ionian Sea. In contrast, predicted densities were low in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. The use of acoustic data compensated for the main difficulty in studying sperm whales, the unavailability of animals at the surface during visual observation and the paucity of visual data. We thus encourage more systematic use of passive acoustics to study sperm whale distribution. The model highlighted a higher concentration of sperm whales in the western Mediterranean basin than in the eastern basin in summer, opening up avenues to improve the conservation of this endangered Mediterranean sub-population.

Microcotyle justinei n. sp. (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) from the Gills of the Cardinal Fish Apogon imberbis (Teleostei: Apogonidae) off the Algerian Coast of the Western Mediterranean.

A new monogenean Microcotyle justinei n. sp. (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) is described based on specimens found on the gill filaments of the cardinal fish Apogon imberbis (Apogonidae) off the Algerian coast of the Western Mediterranean. Monogeneans were examined, measured and drawn for a comparative morphological study with other species of Microcotyle and characterised molecularly using a partial fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. The identification of fish was confirmed by molecular barcoding using the cox1 gene. The new species is distinguished from all other species of the genus by a combination of features, such as the number and size of the clamps, the shape and size of the genital atrium and the number of testes. The molecular analysis of the cox1 gene sequences showed that interspecific differences between Microcotyle justinei n. sp. and published sequences of Microcotyle spp. was greater than 8.8%, strongly suggesting that the new species is distinct from other congeners with sequences available on GenBank. The morphological and molecular analyses support the status of M. justinei as a new species. The present finding extends the list of Microcotyle spp. to 72.

Marine Malacostraca (Arthropoda, Crustacea) from the Gulf of Oran (Algerian west coast)

Abstract This present paper presents an inventory of benthic Malacostraca in the Gulf of Oran. The softbottom crustacean fauna was studied between February 2021 and September 2021. Samples were collected from 8 coastal stations. The class Malacostraca was represented with 2 subclasses, Eumalacostraca and Phyllocarida. Sixty-one species and 290 individuals belonging to seven crustacean orders (Amphipoda, Decapoda, Isopoda, Tanaidacea, Mysida, Lophogastrida and Leptostraca) were identified. Amphipoda were represented with the highest number of species (36) followed by Decapoda (11) and Isopoda (6). Tanaidacea and Mysida were poorly represented, with 3 and 2 species, respectively. Lophogastrida and Leptostraca were both represented by only one species. Among the crustaceans encountered, Ampelisca was the most dominant genus. The present inventory indicates that the carcinological fauna in the Gulf of Oran is less diversified than it is in other zones that have been studied on the Algerian coast (Gulf of Arzew, Bay of Bou-Ismail, and Bay of Algiers).