Reversed Desertification on Sand Dunes Along the Sinai/Negev Border

摘要: Changes in the Israeli/Egyptian border since 1948 have affected land use patterns of Bedouin tribes inhabiting these areas. These changing are clearly discerned from aerial photographs and satellite images this area extensive linear dunes. The most recent change occurred after Israel’s withdrawal Sinai 1982. Field observations show that vegetation Negev recovered overgrazing a very short time, with 180% increase number shrubs, coincident continued decrease shrubs on side border. Analysis reflectance Landsat-MSS for recovery years (1984, 1987, 1989) shows statistically significant difference between two sides four MSS bands. However, spectral brightness curves bands failed to reveal any specific “signature” typical vegetation. measurements spectrometer indicate curve shape is swayed by biogenic crust makes well known contrast albedo Sinai.