First Study on Coralligenous Habitats in the Marine Protected Area of Mount Edough National Park in Annaba, Northeastern Algeria

This study is the first to advance knowledge of the coralligenous ecosystem within the Monts Edough Marine Protected Area (MPA), officially established in September 2023. Situated on the western outskirts of Annaba in eastern Algeria, the MPA was created as part of a partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The initial survey revealed both pre-coralligenous and coralligenous formations, although their distribution within the MPA is uneven. These habitats cover extensive areas, colonizing vertical walls and the outer zones of sea caves, and forming cord-like structures at depths ranging from –4 to –61m. A total of 296 species were recorded, 86 of which play a direct role in the formation of coralligenous habitats. The ecological condition of the observed communities appears satisfactory, with no evidence of significant anthropogenic impacts such as urban or industrial discharges. The only human activity currently identified is low-intensity artisanal fishing. However, numerous tourism development projects planned for the region represent a potential threat to this sensitive ecosystem. This study underscored the urgent need for strengthened protection measures and sustainable management of the Monts Edough MPA to safeguard its biological richness against increasing human pressures. It highlights the importance of a proactive conservation strategy to ensure the long-term resilience of this fragile environment.