Charcoal analysis from Lixus (Larache, Morocco)

During the Punic period, the relative frequency of all types of the evergreen Quercus decreased considerably. This would indicate an increased clearing of oak forests, cork trees and shrubs in order to provide wood for fuel furnaces and ovens. The persistence of anthropogenic pressures on the environment favoured the degradation of sclerophyllous oak forests and their replacement by scrub bushes and pine-covered areas.