The Conservation Status of the Barbary Macaque (Macaca sylvanus) in Algeria: Population Estimates and Human Impacts

The Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus), the only African macaque and an Endangered species, faces significant conservation challenges. By compiling both published and unpublished data, this review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the current state of knowledge on the Barbary macaque in Algeria, with a specific focus on(1) geographic distribution and population estimates, and (2) anthropogenic threats. Wereviewed 409 studies and identified 41 relevant to the Algerian context. Our findingsupdate population estimates, revealing over 9000 individuals across national parkssuch as Djurdjura, Gouraya, and Chréa. We also document new presence data of thespecies in Skikda and Jijel. Finally, an analysis of the available studies on the impactof anthropogenic activities on the species in Algeria shows that the primary factorsaffecting macaques include habitat loss, overgrazing, illegal trade, road mortality, and tourism-related disease transmission. While species monitoring has improved, manyforest regions remain understudied. We call for expanded systematic research andconservation efforts, particularly in unsurveyed habitats such as the Akfadou and Guer-rouche forests and Babors-Tababort National Park. By integrating diverse data sources,this review supports the need for evidence-based conservation of M. sylvanus in Algeriaand highlights its critical role in North African biodiversity.