A spatio-temporal cartography and landscape metrics of urbanization patterns in Algerian low-Sahara. The case of Ouargla City

Abstract

Monitoring and assessment of spatial and landscape transformations generated by uncontrolled urbanization is currently a key step in any oasis sustainability project. Through a landscape-metrics based approach using a multi-time series of Landsat images (1985-2000-2015), we have tried to assess the spatial growth of Ouargla City (Algeria) over the last three decades, by highlighting its impact on the oasis ecosystem. The results of the spatio-temporal cartography have shown a significant spatial growth of built-up areas, against an excessive decline and progressive fragmentation of the palm grove, which have negatively influenced the oasis ecosystem functioning. The main aim of this paper is to show the utility of satellite images and landscape metrics for monitoring uncontrolled urbanization and assessing its impacts on oasis landscapes.