Northeast Algeria Research Articles

Zooplankton Diversity at Lake Oubeira, a Wetland at the National Park of El Kala NPEK (North-east Algeria)

Zooplankton Diversity at Lake Oubeira, a Wetland at the National Park of El Kala NPEK (North-east Algeria)

Physico-Chemical Assessment of the Surface Waters of Oued Seybouse-Annaba (North-East Algeria)

Physico-Chemical Assessment of the Surface Waters of Oued Seybouse-Annaba (North-East Algeria)

Geomorphological, hydrogeological and geotechnical characteristics of the El Kherba large, deep-seated landslide induced by the August 7th, 2020 (Mw 4.9) earthquake in the city of Mila, northeast Algeria

Geomorphological, hydrogeological and geotechnical characteristics of the El Kherba large, deep-seated landslide induced by the August 7th, 2020 (Mw 4.9) earthquake in the city of Mila, northeast Algeria

SWAT model application for sediment yield modeling and parameters analysis in Wadi K’sob (northeast Algeria)

SWAT model application for sediment yield modeling and parameters analysis in Wadi K’sob (northeast Algeria)

Mapping the Potential for Erosion Gullies Using Frequency Ratio and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process: Case Study Medjerda Basin, Northeast Algeria

Mapping the Potential for Erosion Gullies Using Frequency Ratio and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process: Case Study Medjerda Basin, Northeast Algeria

Identification and Antibacterial Activity of Streptomyces mediolani CF51DZ Isolated from the Beetle (Protaetia morio), Collected from Souk Ahras, North-East of Algeria

In this study, an Actinomycetota Streptomyces mediolani strain CF51DZ was isolated from a beetle Protaetia morio collected in a cork oak forest in northeast Algeria, to extract, purify and characterize the antibacterial compound. The strain was isolated in specific ISP culture media, identified via morphological, biochemical, physiological and molecular characteristics and then studied its antibacterial activities against pathogenic bacteria using the well diffusion technique. The extraction, purification and characterization of the bioactive compound was carried out using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. Morphological, physiological, and biochemical properties, as well as the 16S ribosomal DNA sequence of the strain, were found close to those of Streptomyces mediolani. The isolated strain produced an active compound having potent antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. This compound was isolated and purified with thin layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography, and chemically identified by mass spectroscopy and NMR spectroscopy. In addition, the chemical structure elucidation of the antibacterial metabolite by APCI-MS analysis revealed a peak at m/z 375 [M+H]+, a molecular formula of C19H18O8. This compound was identified as methyl rosarinate: 3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-1-methoxy-1-oxopropan-2-yl (E)-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)acrylate based on the IUPAC nomenclature. Moreover, the antibacterial agent was purified from Streptomyces mediolani strain CF51DZ that was for the first time, in Algeria, isolated from the beetle Protaetia morio. This supports further characterization of this promising chemical to ensure the best use for antibacterial applications.

Integration of GIS and Water-Quality Index for Preliminary Assessment of Groundwater Suitability for Human Consumption and Irrigation in Semi-Arid Region

The Setifian high-plains region, Northeast of Algeria, grapples with challenges in water resource management. As the water demand intensifies across a diverse range of sectors, assessing groundwater quality becomes indispensable. This article responds to the critical need for a thorough assessment of groundwater quality in the Wadi Boussellam sub-watershed. Employing a GIS-based method, we evaluate groundwater geochemistry by estimating the Water Quality Index (WQI), offering a comprehensive overview of water consumption. The analysis of groundwater samples reveals distinct facies, including calcic bicarbonate, calcic chloride, calcic sulfate, and magnesium sulfate, contributing to an enhanced understanding of the hydrochemical composition in the Setif region. Hydrochemical indices, specifically the WQI, Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), and Na% are applied to assess groundwater suitability for various applications. The results indicate that most crops are generally suitable for irrigation, though they advise exercising caution with regard to human consumption. This study underscores the significance of regular monitoring to avert groundwater contamination and ensure sustainable use in the Setif region, providing insights that emphasize the ongoing necessity for efforts in water resource management and the preservation of this vital resource’s quality.

Typology analysis of cattle farms in Northeast Algeria: Potential for sustainable development

CONTEXTCurrently, local cattle breeds are facing numerous challenges, and their disappearance could have social, economic, and environmental consequences. OBJECTIVEThis study was conducted in the northeast of Algeria to understand the characteristics, constraints of production systems and examine the specific strategies implemented in farms to ensure their viability. METHODA total of 175 smallholder farmers who practice Algerian local cattle breeding were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Typology construction was carried out through factor analysis of mixed data, followed by sequential agglomerative hierarchical and K-means clustering, to define distinct farmer types with common characteristics. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONResults highlight three farm types. The first group, representing 54.9% (96/175Farms) of the farms studied, is characterized by low-resource breeders who raise small herds of local breeds in association with small ruminants. Type 2 (25.7%) (45/175) consists of crossbred, diversified, supported breeding with better technical performance. The intensification strategies adopted by breeders of this type have relegated local cattle to the background. The third type (19.4%) (34/175) includes cattle pastoral farms, with the predominance of the local cattle breed characterized by limited productivity. SIGNIFICANCEThis study highlights farm diversity, the necessity of government support, and specific policies to ensure the sustainability of local cattle breeding, with particular emphasis on pastoral breeding, which has the largest number of local cattle breeds.

A machine learning approach for RUSLE-based soil erosion modeling in Beni Haroun dam Watershed, Northeast Algeria

A machine learning approach for RUSLE-based soil erosion modeling in Beni Haroun dam Watershed, Northeast Algeria

ELISA based Monitoring and Quantification of Tetracycline Residues in Fresh and Powdered Cow Milk Commercialized in Constantine Region (Northeast Algeria)

Background: This study aimed to identify tetracycline residues in milk consumed in the region of Constantine (northeast Algeria) using ELISA based tetracyclin kit. Methods: A total of 180 samples were analyzed (fresh cow milk and imported powdered milk). To compare ELISA and HPLC detection values, 22 fresh milk ELISA positive samples were confirmed by HPLC analysis. Result: 92.5% of fresh milk samples contained tetracycline residues at values between 5 and 74 µg/L and 33.3% of the samples showed concentrations between 49 and 74 µg/L, that exceed the MRLs recommended by the FDA. No significant differences (p greater than 0.01) were found between the values obtained by the two methods.

Concentrations, Sources, and Health Risk of Heavy Metals in Edible Parts of Broilers from Northeast of Algeria.

Heavy metals contamination of poultry products is a major concern for public health. This study aimed to determine the concentration of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and iron (Fe) in the edible parts of broilers, as well as in feed, drinking water, and litter as sources of contamination and to assess their possible human health risk in the province of Jijel (Northeast Algeria). The range of Hg, Pb, and Fe in edible parts were 0.004-0.007, 0.185-0.480, and 28.536-88.306mg/kg, respectively, and the difference in content was only significant (p < 0.05) for lead. Breast and thigh samples had Pb concentrations above the maximum limit. Spearman coefficient analysis revealed that most correlations were positive between metals detected in feed, water, and litter and those in the edible parts of broilers. But most of them were insignificant (p > 0.05). The estimated daily intake (EDI) values of examined metal exceeded the tolerable daily intake (PTDI). The target hazard quotients (THQ) and hazard index (HI) of all metals were lower than 1, suggesting no significant carcinogenic risks. The calculated incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) of Pb was higher than 10-4 for men, women, and children, indicating the presence of carcinogenic risk. Considering the wide consumption of broiler meat, regular national monitoring of heavy metals in the broiler production chain is recommended to protect population health.

Exploring scale insects biodiversity in orange orchards: insights from Guelma province, Algeria

Scale insects are pests affecting citrus crops in the Mediterranean basin, but their significance is often overlooked in some countries due to insufficient information about the threat they pose to this type of cultivation. In Algeria, various studies have aimed to identify and highlight the most harmful species impacting citrus orchards. This research specifically focuses on compiling a list of species affecting orange orchards in three regions of Guelma province (northeast Algeria) which are Boumahra Ahmad, El Fedjoudj and Guelma. Branch samples with their leaves were collected from all cardinal directions of the trees as well as from the center of the canopy during the winter-spring period from 2014 to 2018 while examining the climatic influence on their presence. Seventeen species were identified, with Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell, 1879), Parlatoria ziziphi (Lucas, 1853) and Coccus pseudomagnoliarum (Kuwana, 1914) being dominant and Lepidosaphes beckii (Newman, 1869), Saissetia oleae (Olivier, 1791) and Saissetia coffeae (Walker, 1852) considered rare. Non-parametric richness estimators (Chao 1, Chao 2, Jack 1 and Boot) suggest the potential presence of additional species, reaching 20.15 ± 0.96, indicating that the count may extend to 21 scale insects in the surveyed orchards. Spearman correlation analysis applied to species and climatic conditions reveals their influence on species abundance, but not on their diversity. We observed a positive impact on relative humidity and a negative impact on average temperature.

Larval description of Setodes acutus Navás 1936, (Trichoptera: Leptoceridae) from Algeria, including a discriminatory matrix to the known Setodes larvae from the Maghreb region

The hitherto unknown larva of Setodes acutus Navás 1936 from the Aures region, Algeria, is described. The diagnostic features of the species are explained and illustrated, and morphological comparisons are made with Setodes argentipunctellus McLachlan 1877, recently recorded from the region. In addition, a discriminatory matrix to the known Setodes larvae from the Maghreb region is provided. Lastly, information on the ecology of the two species and their distribution to Northwest and Northeast Algeria is included.

THE CHEMICAL ORIGIN AND GEOTHERMOMETERY OF HOT SPRINGS WATERS IN THE REGION OF KHENCHELA, ALGERIA

Our study is carried out on the trio of thermomineral waters in the region of Khenchela - Hammam Salhin, Hammam Knif, and Hammam Djaarir - Northeast of Algeria. The purpose of this study is to determine the physicochemical and geothermal origin of the thermal spring (temperature, pH, and electrical conductivity). The temperatures of the thermal water samples which were being studied varied from 38 to 72°C; therefore, this variation has a direct relation to the climatic conditions and/or the combination of the water which is derived from various sources in the formation of the thermal spring. Additionally, the pH value of the spring under study is of a neutral to slightly alkaline quality, while its electric conductivities are high, ranging from 3059 μS/Cm to 5007 μS/Cm. The Piper diagrams presented the domination of sodium chloride (Na-Cl) and sodium sulfate (Na-SO4) facies as two types of water in the hydrochemical facies. These facies indicate the mineral composition of the thermal waters, a product from the reservoir by way of geological formations in the subsurface. This is a plausible reason from the chemical changes observed in the fluids and can well be associated with the high influence of water-rock interaction, that is, the formation of sodium bicarbonate water to sodium-chlorinated water formation, where it is linked with the effects of dissolution and salinity in the formation of saliva found in regions with semi-arid climatic conditions. Evaporation would play a major role in increasing the sodium content, while the IIRG plots closer to the industry "α" standard than the other plots. These are the characteristic features of an evaporation-based system. The crucial parameter C serves as a strong indicator of circulation in carbonate reservoirs subject to evaporation.

Multispectral Satellite Datasets for Detection and Mapping of Land Cover Change in a Mediterranean Area of North Africa, Belezma (Algeria)

Multispectral satellite images are valuable sources of information for ecologists, agriculture climatologists, or environmentalists. Handling satellite images represents a challenge for better understanding the global change. The Belezma massif by its exceptional geographical position in the Mediterranean region of Northeast Algeria constitutes a fragile hot spot ecosystem with all the degradation factors that directly affect all landcovers. The objective of this study is to determine the contribution of satellite images in the detection of land cover global changes between 1986 and 2021 and landscape monitoring in Belezma region. The methodology adopted is the spatial remote sensing of the evolution of forest stands and the change in land cover, from the processing of Landsat images (L05 TM 1986, L07 ETM+ 2001 and L08 OLI_TIRS 2021) and sampling work for confrontation with the reality on the ground. The outcomes of this investigation demonstrate a general regression rate in the natural vegetation cover that the cedar forest, the steppe, and the wetlands lost 42%, 49%, and 97%, respectively, of their areas between 1986 and 2021, while the degraded and anthropic occupations have increased in favor of market gardening, bare soil, urban areas, and arboriculture by 836%, 158%, 131%, and 50%, respectively, over the same period. This study made it possible to identify and analyze 13 main land uses and plant formations over a period of 35 years, which can be used as a decision-making aid model for the managers of these territories.

Diversity and Distribution of Culicidian Fauna in Urban and Rural Areas of Setif Region (North-East Algeria).

Objective: The study explored larval mosquito breeding sites in urban and rural areas from March 2021 to February 2022 in the North-East region of Algeria to provide information on larval biology and ecology of different mosquito species. Methodology: It focused on the effect of the physicochemical characteristics of the breeding sites (pH and water temperature), area, and months on the larval mosquito abundance. Diversity index and equitability were calculated for the registered mosquito species in both areas. Results: Months significantly affected the larval mosquito abundances, with a clear abundance increase from March to August 2021, and then, a clear decrease to February 2022. The interactions between rural and urban areas, water pH, and water temperature as well affected the mosquito abundance. Twelve species of Culicidae were identified and distributed in three genera: Culex, Culiseta, and Aedes. Culex pipiens was the most dominant species in rural and urban sites, with a rate of 69% and 48%, respectively. In rural site, Aedes caspius and Aedes vexans occupied the second position with value of 7-8% each. In urban sites, the second position was occupied by Culiseta longiareolata (36%) and then by Culex theileri (10%). In terms of site diversity, only one site was highly diversified in rural sites, El Hchichia (H' = 1.12 bits). In urban sites, Setif Center, Guellel an Ain Trick, had almost similar diversity with values between 1.03 and 1.04 bits. Equitability values were 0.48 in rural sites and 0.55 in urban sites. Therefore, the Culicidae species presented in these study sites are moderately balanced. Conclusion: The present study provides key tools for planning a better vector control through the information on the effect of some factors on the proliferation of mosquitoes in the urban and rural sites of the Setif region and on the Culicidae diversity and abundance.

The First Culicidae Inventory in the Region of Guelma (Northeast Algeria)

The First Culicidae Inventory in the Region of Guelma (Northeast Algeria)

Monitoring of the Fluctuation of the Pollutant Load of Leachate Rejected in Environment. Study in the Northeast of Algeria

In order to model the environmental impact of leachate produced at the engineered landfill center (ELC) of Bouguerguer, Guelma located in the north east of Algeria. A physico-chemical characterization during 2020, was carried out in order to estimate this impact. For this purpose fourteen parameters have been studied which are, In vivo: pH, conductivity, Salinity. In vitro: Organic element contents (BOD5, COD); Heavy metal contents (Fe, Zn, Pb, Cd and Cr); The contents of nutrient elements (Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonium and Suspended matter). The results obtained show that the leachates studied, have the following characteristics: A basic pH of 8,85 , Suspended matter a fairly large load with 5397,92 mg/L. The organic load interpreted by a COD that reaches an average 1603, 75 mg O2/L and a BOD5 that reaches an average of 778,54 mg O2/L, which strongly justifies the presence of organic pollution. The mineral pollution is also present, translated by a high electrical conductivity which reaches an average value of 33,38 mS/cm, Nitrates and nitrites average 15,68 and 17,93 mg/l respectively. The leachates are also characterized by a high content of Fr, Zn, Pb, Cd and Cr with an average of (42,70 ; 10,44 ; 8,27 ; 4,37 and 5,97 mg/l) respectively. Noting that the results obtained constitute the first characterization of leachates in this landfill and thus provide a database for future research.

Assessing water quality in North-East Algeria: a comprehensive study using water quality index (WQI) and PCA

Abstract Ensuring high water quality in Algeria, particularly in Annaba, is crucial for the well-being of its population and the sustainable development of its diverse ecosystems. The study focuses on the Cheffia Dam, Oued El Aneb, and Treat boreholes as crucial sources of drinking water. The water quality index (WQI) is used to assess water quality based on various physico-chemical parameters. The research spans from January to December 2021, analyzing 16 parameters, such as temperature, pH, conductivity, turbidity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride, nitrate, sulfate, phosphate, and iron, this results in a total of 36 samples and 576 analyses. Principal component analysis (PCA) is employed to delve into interrelationships between variables, revealing distinct characteristics for each site. This study, the first of its kind, provides a comprehensive 1-year evaluation of water quality in Annaba. The collected data serve as a valuable resource for future water management decisions, highlighting both temporal and spatial variations. The current study indicates that the analysis of water parameters, adherence to standards, and the application of WQI reveal that the water sources are generally good quality throughout the year with excellent water quality in autumn. However, challenges such as elevated turbidity in Cheffia dam water necessitate targeted interventions.

Efecto del pastoreo en la composición y la diversidad florística durante el barbecho en El-Tarf, Argeli

In the El-Tarf region, located in northeastern Algeria, fallow lands are frequently used as grazing grounds for sheep flocks, where they are left all day with a significant grazing load. Limited studies conducted to assess the effects of grazing have yielded varied and sometimes contradictory results, thus underscoring the need for reliable local data. The study aims to assess the impact of grazing on the floristic richness, diversity, production, and chemical composition of fallow lands in the El-Tarf region (northeast Algeria). Measurements were taken during the optimal vegetation period from March to June over a period of 2 years (2019 and 2020). The experimental design included a single factor: grazing intensity (no grazing, moderate grazing, and intense grazing). The results indicated that grazing reduced floristic richness and diversity (Maximum Diversity, Shannon and Weaver Index, Evenness Index), but it did not have an effect on coverage. The non-grazed fallow land is richer, hosting 23 herbaceous species distributed among 8 botanical families, with the most represented being Asteraceae (39 %), followed by Poaceae (26 %). The Fabaceae, on the other hand, display a more modest representation, accounting for only 13 %.Grazing also decreased significantly the biomass and total aboveground herbaceous phytomass, with improvements noted in non-grazed conditions, recording values of 3.80 t.DM.ha-1 and 1.77 t.DM.ha-1, respectively. In addition, grazing had a significant impact on chemical composition, with the highest values recorded for moderate grazing, reaching 14.7 % for total nitrogen content and 11.66 % for mineral content.