Geology of Algeria

Further south the Tuareg Shield comprises the Hoggar, Adrar des Iforas and Air sub-shields which have each been affected by tectono-thermal events touching much of the continent.

[1] The production of oil and gas is important to Algeria's economy, being Africa's main producer of the latter.

The major source rocks for the hydrocarbons were Silurian shales rich in organic material.

In 2008, Algeria was the fourth-largest oil producer in Africa accounting for about one-sixth of the continent's production.

[2] In Northern Algeria, earthquakes occur frequently, damaging infrastructure and property, as well as causing human loss of life.