Trade-offs between resource exploitation and biodiversity conservation in North Africa. Case study of Hammamet Protected Area (Tunisia)

Tunisian natural environments have allowed the development of a remarkable both continental and marine biological diversity. This diversity is explained by the effect of several environmental variation factors such as geographical location, climatic zonation, soil properties, etc. However, these environments are obstacled by significant degradation as a result of climate change effects and human activities. This is the case of the Jbel Hammamet, a nature reserve located at the extreme north-east of Tunisian ridge. It is a natural forest of Tetraclinis articulata which was overexploited by the local population and overgrazing since ancient times. However, in order to evaluate its biodiversity, different methodological approaches have been used. The physical diagnosis was based on mapping of different natural components of study area, using GIS tools and field validation. The anthropogenic diagnosis was supported by a socio-economic survey of the local population, a total of 27 questions were asked to 100 selected residents. The analysis, of elaborated survey, resulted in obtaining different thematic maps that helped to identify the potentiality and constraints of the protected area. The resident population, at the Hammamet Nature Reserve, may be involved in the creation of income-generating activities, while preserving the natural heritage. In this way, projects enhancing the Jbel Hammamet reserve potentiality may benefit from the know-how and participatory approaches. In addition, with a view to conservation and participatory management, of the protected area. The obtained results lead to propose has confirmed that the development of ecotourism circus composed of a nine stopping stations to develop an ecotourim circus. Key words : biodiversity, GIS, ecotourism