Moroccan Cypress
Cupressus atlantica Gaussen
Cupressus atlantica, the Moroccan cypress, is a coniferous tree species native to the Oued n'Fiss river valley in the High Atlas Mountains of western Morocco. Endemic to this region, it is critically endangered due to limited natural regeneration, largely caused by overgrazing by goats. Most existing trees are old, with few young individuals observed.
Description
Cupressus atlantica belongs to the genus Cupressus in the family Cupressaceae. It is found only in the High Atlas Mountains, specifically in the valley of the Oued n'Fiss river south of Marrakesh. The species is at risk of extinction due to environmental pressures, particularly overgrazing, which hinders the growth of new trees. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this rare and vulnerable species.
Other common names
Moroccan Cypress
Synonyms
Cupressus dupreziana var. atlanticaCupressus dupreziana subsp. atlanticaCupressus sempervirens var. atlantica
