Wetlands with saline and permanent water bodies fed by the Oued-Khrouf, excess irrigation water from palm groves and upstream groundwater used by and discharged from neighbouring villages. Located in an arid steppe region, the Site provides habitat for a remarkable range of sedentary and migratory birds, and fish including indigenous species which remain little known. In 1999, more than 28,000 birds were recorded including more than 14,000 greater flamingos. Western marsh harrier and migrating osprey have also been recorded. The distribution of plant species is conditioned by the hydrophilicity and salinity of the soil. This vegetation is grazed by herds, but used above all by local residents for roofing and for shade. Threats to the ecological character of the Site include pollution from untreated wastewater from irrigated palm groves, poorly regulated hunting,  overgrazing and wind erosion.