# Remote Sensing Technologies for Monitoring Argane Forest Stands: A Comprehensive Review
## 1 Introduction  
The Argane tree, scientifically known as _Argania spinosa_ (L.[PERSON] [PERSON], is a significant tree species endemic to southwestern Morocco, belonging to the Sapotaceae family. The tree is characterized by its fruit-forest stand form, variable presence of thorons, and an upright structure resembling the olive tree. It can reach heights of 8 to 10 m or more, depending on ecological conditions, with a dense, sprawling canopy. The tree's branches are robust and often twisted, with a rugged texture on the bark and large branches bear thorns. The leaves are small, leathery, and come in various shapes, typically arranged in fascicles [1]. During periods of drought, the Argane stands showcase its resilience by retaining some of its leaves while shedding others in response to the degree of environmental stress [2]. However, its significance transcends its impressive adaptability--this species can promote regional and national sustainable development [1]. Argane forest stands serve a multitude of ecological functions, including the establishment of a conducive microclimate for diverse fauna and flora, mitigation of soil erosion, and prevention of desertification. Additionally, it serves as a crucial resource for local communities, which have deep-rooted socioeconomic ties to the diverse array of products derived from it (e.g., oil, soap, shampoo, cosmetic creams, and livestock feed) [1]. Furthermore, this review offers a comprehensive exploration of remote sensing technology, highlighting its indispensable role in gathering critical dataand insights concerning the health and conditions of the Earth's surface, particularly in the context of forests and trees. It underscores the versatility of remote sensing instruments and methodologies available to researchers, such as satellite imagery and aircraft technology, which as one of the featured technologies, enables researchers to capture large-scale data on forest cover, health, and changes over time [3]. This is especially beneficial for assessing the Argane stands population, identifying areas under stress due to factors like climate change or land use alterations, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of conservation efforts. LiDAR (light detection and ranging), another highlighted tool, provides high-resolution, three-dimensional data about forest structure. For the Argane stands and forest trees in general, LiDAR technology offers precise information about canopy height, density, and even individual tree health [4]. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as a pivotal technology for evaluating forest parameters, thanks to their exceptional spatial resolution, versatility, and ease of operation [5,6]. Specifically, low-cost UAVs equipped with multispectral cameras have found extensive use in forest applications due to their remarkable precision in detecting tree-level parameters, including individual tree identification and measurement of tree height [6], health status assessment [7], and diameter at breast height [8]. This capability proves especially valuable in remote or challenging-to-access areas where conducting ground surveys may present logistical difficulties. Additionally, radar technology can penetrate forest canopies to some extent, allowing researchers to monitor soil moisture levels, which is crucial for understanding the Argane tree's resilience during droughts. GPS is indispensable for tracking and mapping the exact locations of Argane stand populations. These data can be used to create accurate distribution maps, monitor changes in habitat, and assess the impact of human activities on these ecosystems. These cutting-edge tools provide scientists with the capability to remotely observe and monitor a wide range of environmental phenomena. Furthermore, this review discusses the importance of monitoring vegetation health, productivity, and drought stress using remote sensing technology.