Temporary Ponds in a Southern Mediterranean Forest Context

Mediterranean temporary ponds in Morocco are essential components of forest ecosystems, characterized by a seasonal alternation between flooded and dry phases driven by Mediterranean climate. Their hydrological functioning strongly influences the structure, composition, and dynamics of biological communities, including numerous rare, endemic, and threatened species. These ponds maintain close functional relationships with surrounding forest formations, jointly contributing to hydrological regulation, carbon storage, soil protection, and biodiversity maintenance. Their distribution covers a wide bioclimatic gradient, from the Rif to the High Atlas, with high concentrations in coastal forest areas. However, temporary ponds and adjacent forests are increasingly exposed to converging threats related to climate change and human activities. Their conservation requires integrated management that considers pond–forest interactions, supported by ecological monitoring, community awareness, and integration into conservation frameworks, to ensure the resilience of Mediterranean forest landscapes