Abstract
Given that people are an inseparable part of their environment through their dependence on ecosystems and the services they provide, it is essential to understand the human influences that impact the environment and in turn determine the effects they will have on the existing ecosystem services. This relationship was explored by coupling a habitat vulnerability study with an ecosystem service perception evaluation. A biological survey and a socio-economic study were implemented in western Morocco (Benslimane Province) to identify the vulnerability of different temporary pools and to determine the perceived ecosystem services obtained by local stakeholders. A total of 101 temporary pools were studied and in person interviews were conducted with 110 randomly selected households. For each pool, vulnerability to various land uses, pressures and threats were analyzed. Temporary pools located in forested areas were under less threat than those located in agricultural lands. The nuisances associated with temporary pools were indicated by local stakeholders, increasing the pools' vulnerability. Provisioning and cultural ecosystem services were also perceived, increasing acceptance for conservation measures. The results of this study highlight the need to account for natural science and social sciences to inform future management. This methodology can further be tested and applied in other fragile ecosystems to better target conservation strategies.