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H. Essekhyr Cadi Ayyad University, Essaouira Al Jadida, Route d'Agadir, BP 383, Essaouira, Morocco

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K. Khalil Cadi Ayyad University, Essaouira Al Jadida, Route d'Agadir, BP 383, Essaouira, Morocco

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Z. Damsiri Cadi Ayyad University, Essaouira Al Jadida, Route d'Agadir, BP 383, Essaouira, Morocco

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G. Derhy Cadi Ayyad University, Essaouira Al Jadida, Route d'Agadir, BP 383, Essaouira, Morocco

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K. Elkalay Cadi Ayyad University, Essaouira Al Jadida, Route d'Agadir, BP 383, Essaouira, Morocco

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Abstract

The Moroccan Atlantic coast is considered as one of the richest fishing areas in the world, having rich biodiversity, and supporting the fisheries sector. However, studies have shown that the ecosystem presently suffers from overexploitation of fishery resources and environmental degradation. To quantify these impacts, the characterization of the ecosystem is essential. In this work, an Ecopath model (EwE), which assumes steady-state and mass-balanced conditions for the Moroccan Atlantic coast ecosystem, was developed and balanced. Network analysis included in the Ecopath software package was used to estimate trophic interactions and the maturity of the ecosystem. The model consisted of 29 functional groups. The results showed a Total System Throughput (TST) which is comprised mainly of flows into detritus, followed by export, consumption, and respiration. Systemic indicators, suggest that the Moroccan Atlantic coast is an immature and developing ecosystem. Further observations on the functioning and dynamics of the ecosystem are discussed.

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Community Ecology
Language English
Size A4
Year of
Foundation
2000
Volumes
per Year
1
Issues
per Year
3
Founder Akadémiai Kiadó
Founder's
Address
H-1117 Budapest, Hungary 1516 Budapest, PO Box 245
Publisher Akadémiai Kiadó
Springer Nature Switzerland AG
Publisher's
Address
H-1117 Budapest, Hungary 1516 Budapest, PO Box 245.
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Chief Executive Officer, Akadémiai Kiadó
ISSN 1585-8553 (Print)
ISSN 1588-2756 (Online)

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