Morocco’s Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) has rejected claims of a dangerous disease hitting argan trees in Chtouka Aït Baha Province in the southwest, 60km south of Agadir.
The agency says checks in the field and lab tests found no signs of a contagious disease. Cases of tree damage are small, local, and mostly caused by climate stress, not infection.
Years of drought, hotter temperatures, and low rainfall have weakened trees. Between 2017 and 2024, temperatures in the area rose more than 2.3°C, and rainfall was up to 48% below normal in 2023 and 2024. Falling groundwater levels also make it harder for trees to get water.
Recent wet weather has encouraged fungi and lichens to grow on dead wood and dry branches, but these don’t spread disease. The tree decline seen by ANEF is likely due to cavitation, when extreme dryness causes air bubbles inside the tree, blocking water and causing branch dieback.
Argan trees are important for Morocco’s environment and economy. They help stop the desert from spreading and are protected by UNESCO as the Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve. Their nuts produce argan oil, a valuable product that supports around three million people, especially women in local cooperatives.
ANEF is running a large conservation programme, which includes planting new trees, creating argan orchards, improving water supply for young trees, and researching heat-resistant varieties. The agency said it continues to monitor the forests closely and urged people to trust official information.
