Publications
Abu Tbeirah and the Marshland: Dreaming Everyday Life in the Ahwar of the 3rd Millennium BCE
Recent archaeological excavations at the site of Abu Tbeirah, near Nasiriyah in southern Iraq, have uncovered significant insights into the continuity between the daily life of ancient Sumer during the 3rd millennium BCE and the ethnographic traditions of today's Ahwari people. This study reveals a deep historical connection that underpins UNESCO's designation of the Ahwar region as a mixed (cultural and natural) World Heritage Site, alongside cities like Ur, Uruk, and Eridu. By employing advanced scientific methodologies, researchers analyzed the site's ancient water management systems, flora and fauna, their exploitation, and material culture, providing a comprehensive understanding of this relict landscape's ecological and cultural significance.
Landscape Archaeology of the Eridu Region: Discovering the Irrigation Systems of Ancient Farms
Ancient irrigation systems in the Eridu region, part of the Ahwar of Southern Iraq, reveal a sophisticated agricultural landscape spanning from the fifth to the second millennium B.C. This discovery, based on remote sensing and field surveys, shows that canals and crevasse splays near the relict Euphrates were integral to Eridu's occupation, providing insight into early water management technologies. High-resolution satellite imagery, including VISION-1 and Google Earth data, mapped overlapping channels, indicating sequential irrigation development. Fieldwork in 2020, combined with AMS dating of samples from canals and the Euphrates, confirmed the chronology, linking these systems to Eridu's agricultural hinterland.
Sedimentary and Environmental Properties of Selected Areas in the Southern Marine Environment of Iraq
Research on the southern marine environment of Iraq reveals that sediment transport and deposition processes are consistent across seven studied locations, with silt dominating (88%) except at Khor Shytianah, where sand prevails (90%). The study found an inverse relationship between particle size and salinity/conductivity, indicating a regressive deltaic estuary system. Total organic carbon (TOC) levels peaked in the Shatt Al-Basrah region (2.5%) while pH remained alkaline (8.85). Sediments were shown to have been transported over long distances, with grain size decreasing away from sources. This work provides critical baseline data for environmental management and monitoring in this ecologically sensitive area, particularly amid ongoing climate and urban changes.
Water Resources in South of Iraq: Current State, Future Evolutions, Challenges, and Potential Solutions
Southern Iraq's water resources face severe threats from climate change, prolonged droughts, and mismanagement, endangering its agricultural and wetland ecosystems. A comprehensive review identifies critical challenges such as declining marsh water availability, rising river salinity along the Shatt al-Arab, and shrinking cultivated areas. The study highlights a lack of integrated assessments in the region, offering potential solutions for future research to mitigate these crises. Key indicators—water availability, salinity levels, and agricultural land coverage—were analyzed to provide deeper insights into the ongoing water scarcity. This research is vital for guiding sustainable solutions and advancing efforts to address one of Iraq's most pressing environmental issues.
Climate Change Impacts on Iraq’s Marshes: Al-Huwaizah, Central Marshes and Hammar
Iraq's Mesopotamian marshlands have experienced severe ecological degradation due to climate change, with mean annual temperatures rising by 2°C and rainfall declining significantly since 1970. This study identifies the dual threats of reduced river inflows from the Tigris and Euphrates and increased evaporation, leading to widespread wetland shrinkage, soil salinization, and biodiversity loss. The findings highlight a critical imbalance in hydrological conditions, which not only threatens ecological stability but also undermines the cultural heritage of these marshes. The research combines hydrological data, observational records, and published reports to underscore the urgent need for transboundary water management strategies, salinity reduction, and reed bed restoration to mitigate competing interests between biodiversity support and ecological preservation under climate change.
Critical Changes in Composition of Diatoms Community in East Hammar Marsh, Southern Iraq
A significant shift in diatom community composition has been observed in the East Hammar Marsh, southern Iraq, reflecting critical environmental changes over recent decades. This study identified 69 diatom taxa across three sites, revealing that marine-brackish water species dominate during summer, while freshwater species prevail in winter. The findings indicate a deterioration in water quality, driven by rising temperatures and salinity, which has impacted the marsh's biodiversity. Researchers analyzed both planktonic and epiphytic diatoms from August 2018 to April 2019, providing insights into the ecological preferences of these microscopic organisms and their response to environmental stressors.
Diversity and Conservation of the Mesopotamian Marshes of Southern Iraq: A Survey of a World Heritage Site
A comprehensive survey of the Mesopotamian Marshes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and critical wetland ecosystem in Iraq, reveals significant biodiversity with 127 waterbird species recorded across three marsh systems. The Central Marshes exhibited the highest species diversity (Shannon H'=3.84), surpassing Hawizeh (H'=3.62) and Hammar (H'=3.21). Twelve species, including three classified as Vulnerable, highlight the marshes' international conservation importance, hosting over 1% of flyway populations for eight species. Despite a notable decline in species richness (23%) and winter populations (65%), methodological variations preclude direct comparisons with historical data from the 1970s. Ongoing threats such as reduced water inflows, illegal hunting, and habitat degradation underscore urgent conservation needs. This study provides foundational data for managing this vital biodiversity refuge.
Integrating Biodiversity into Environmental Impact Assessments
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) can effectively mitigate biodiversity risks if integrated comprehensively, yet their current application in the Tigris and Euphrates river basin falls short. This study reveals that major projects like Türkiye's GAP project, Iran's Tropical Water Projects, and Iraq's drainage initiatives have caused significant adverse effects on local biodiversity due to inadequate EIA frameworks. The research highlights the need for stronger legal frameworks, institutional capacity-building, and technological integration to enhance future EIAs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. By analyzing existing gaps, this work provides actionable insights for policymakers and project developers to safeguard biodiversity while advancing development.
The Application of Remote Sensing Science in Drought Detection in Marshes of Southern Iraq
A significant increase in the area of southern Iraq's marshes, reaching 19.98% by 2023, has been detected using remote sensing technology over a 23-year period (2000-2023). This study leveraged Landsat satellite images and advanced indices—LSWI for drought detection and NDWI for marsh area estimation—to demonstrate the effectiveness of these tools in monitoring environmental changes. The research highlights a notable recovery from previous declines, with marsh coverage rising from 8.21% in 2000 to 15.58% in 2013. The findings underscore the potential of remote sensing in conservation efforts and advocate for the establishment of a government expert committee, in collaboration with universities and institutes, to predict weather patterns and mitigate drought impacts.
The landscape of the Zanj Rebellion? Dating the remains of a large-scale agricultural system in southern Iraq
A large-scale agricultural system, characterized by abandoned ridge/earthwork features, has been dated to a period significantly longer than previously assumed. These features, covering extensive areas of the Shaṭṭ al-ᶜArab floodplain in southern Iraq, were thought to be linked to slave labor during the early Islamic period associated with the Zanj rebellion. However, absolute dating reveals their use persisted well beyond this timeframe, making them a significant component of Iraqi landscape heritage. The study employed a combination of textual evidence and absolute dating techniques to challenge prior assumptions about the chronology of these agricultural features.
Benthic Foraminifera and Bithynia sp. Opercula as Indicators of Depositional Environment of Late Holocene in Eastern Hammar Marsh, Southern Iraq
Research in the Ahwar of Southern Iraq reveals distinct depositional environments in the Late Holocene through analysis of benthic foraminifera and Bithynia sp. opercula distribution. Four zones were identified: Zone I indicates river flow dominance, while Zones II and IV reflect brackish marsh conditions influenced by river reintroduction or marine factors. Zone III shows clear marine influence, suggesting dynamic environmental shifts in the region. The study used sediment samples from three sites east of Hammar Marsh to reconstruct ancient environments, highlighting the interplay between freshwater and marine systems in shaping this UNESCO-listed landscape.
Blooming activism in a drying land: Water justice movements along river Tigris in Iraq
Iraqi water activists demonstrate remarkable resilience and strategic engagement, balancing institutional collaboration with grassroots mobilization to redefine and reclaim waterscapes amid severe environmental challenges. This study highlights their role in navigating ethno-religious divides and advocacy strategies, showcasing a nuanced awareness of their transformative potential within the context of democratization. Unlike previous research that primarily focuses on inter-state hydropolitical conflicts or legal perspectives, this paper centers on bottom-up movements, offering a fresh perspective on water justice activism in the Tigris River region.
Employing Iraqi Architectural heritage Elements in Furniture Design the a Small Motel Room in the Marshes Region of Southern Iraq
A novel approach to integrating Iraqi architectural heritage into modern furniture design has been demonstrated, offering both functional and aesthetic value for small motel rooms in the Marshes region of Southern Iraq. The study found that elements from Iraqi architectural heritage—such as traditional motifs, decorations, and structural designs—can be effectively employed in two ways: directly, by incorporating heritage features, or indirectly, through simplification and abstraction of design lines. This method not only preserves cultural identity but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of interior spaces, addressing a gap where such elements are underutilized despite the region's strategic location near major transportation routes. The research utilized descriptive and analytical methodologies to propose design solutions that draw inspiration from historical symbols while adapting them for contemporary use. These findings contribute to the broader conversation on heritage conservation and its role in shaping modern design, with potential applications in hospitality and urban development.
Fauna Assemblages and Depositional Environment of Recent Deposits in Al-Salhiya Island, Southeastern Part of Basrah Governorate, Southern Iraq
A study of Al-Salhiya Island in the Ahwar of Southern Iraq reveals that its sedimentological characteristics and faunal assemblages indicate a dynamic interplay between marine, brackish, and fresh marsh environments. The dominant sandy silt deposits suggest a calm sedimentation environment with low transport capacity, influenced by tidal currents and proximity to the Shatt al-Arab coastline. Key foraminifera species such as Ammonia beccarii, Ammonia tepida, and Eliphidium inertum point to brackish-shallow water conditions with varying temperatures, while the presence of Cyprideis torosa (Ostracoda) and specific Gastropoda and Pelecypoda species further supports a shallow, lower estuarine-marine setting. These findings highlight the island's ecological significance as part of the Mesopotamian relict landscape, reflecting both historical and contemporary environmental influences.
Irrigation System in Ancient Mesopotamia
Ancient Mesopotamians developed sophisticated irrigation systems to overcome the challenges posed by unpredictable river floods and droughts, significantly boosting agricultural productivity. By constructing canals, storage basins, and reinforced river banks, they effectively managed water flow, preventing crop destruction and enabling year-round farming. This innovation not only increased food surplus but also supported livestock and led to a division of labor, fostering new professions such as craftsmanship, religious roles, and governance. The study highlights how early agricultural practices in Mesopotamia adapted to environmental constraints, laying the foundation for complex societal structures.
Reactivating voices of the youth in safeguarding cultural heritage in Iraq: the challenges and tools
A critical thematic analysis of 45 interviews with Iraqi youth reveals that their active engagement through oral history, testimonies, and documentaries can effectively amplify their voices, foster dialogue about cultural heritage, and contribute to post-war rebuilding by emphasizing commonalities and breaking down ideological barriers. This approach offers a sustainable path for safeguarding Iraq's cultural heritage while promoting educational understanding and peace. The study provides actionable recommendations for youth-led initiatives that leverage heritage to strengthen national identity and bridge cultural divides.
A Review of The Current Status of Migratory Wild Birds in Iraq and Syria
Iraq and Syria, critical stopover points for migratory birds along the East Asia-East Africa migration route, have seen a significant decline in both species diversity and population numbers over the past two decades. A survey conducted nearly twenty years ago identified at least 400 species, predominantly from the Accipitres (Accipitridae) and passerines (Passeriformes), with notable endemics such as the Iraq Babbler and Basra rocking reed in Iraq's marshes, and the endangered Namaqua Dove in Syria. However, overhunting, demographic shifts, and war conditions have drastically reduced bird populations, particularly for threatened species like the Ferruginous duck and Eurasian teal. Non-traditional hunting practices, such as artificial waterbodies, and lack of legal oversight have exacerbated these declines, altering migration patterns and posing severe threats to wildlife in the region.
Analysis and Detection of Inundation in Al-Hammar and Central Marshes/ Southern Iraq Using Google Earth Engine
A study analyzing inundation patterns in the Al-Hammar and Central Marshes of southern Iraq reveals significant fluctuations influenced by hydrological factors, with notable flood years including 1946, 1954, and 2019, while scarcity peaked in 2018. Using the Modified Normalized Difference Water Index (MNDWI) via Google Earth Engine, researchers processed over 10,000 Landsat scenes to detect changes in marsh inundation. The analysis found moderate correlations between hydrological data and inundation for the Tigris (R² = 0.5) and weaker correlations for the Euphrates (R² = 0.4). These findings highlight the marshes' vulnerability to external factors, including dam operations and rainfall patterns, underscoring their ecological significance as part of Iraq's UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site.
Archaeology in the Shadow of the Ziggurat: Initial Results of a Collaborative Programme at Ur
A significant shift in archaeological collaboration at Ur, Iraq, marks the beginning of a new era in Mesopotamian research. Following decades of isolation due to conflict and embargoes, international teams are now working closely with local archaeologists, breaking down historical barriers. The 2017 excavations at Ur revealed not only the physical remnants of ancient civilizations but also the potential for sustainable, collaborative research models that could redefine archaeological practice in the region. This study highlights the challenges and opportunities in rebuilding these partnerships, offering a blueprint for future international collaborations that prioritize mutual learning and exchange.
Geomorphology of the lower Mesopotamian plain at Tell Zurghul archaeological site
A multi-sensor remote sensing approach has revealed the complex Holocene geomorphic evolution of the Lower Mesopotamian Plain (LMP), highlighting the interplay between fluvial processes, anthropogenic water management, and tidal-influenced delta systems. The study, centered on Tell Zurghul archaeological site in the ancient State of Lagash, identified active and relict fluvial landforms, including lobate deltaic bodies and terminal distributary channels (TDCs), which supplied critical water resources for early civilizations like Nasiriyah and Al-Amara. The research used satellite imagery and topographic analysis over 2850 km² to map the geometry, spatial distribution, and activity of erosional and constructional landforms, while also documenting anthropogenic features and aeolian deposits. This work provides a detailed geomorphological framework for understanding the landscape dynamics that supported Mesopotamia's early urban development.
Levels of Pesticides in Sediment of Hor Al-Hammar Marshes, Iraq
A significant correlation (r = 0.98) was found between total organic compounds (TOC) and pesticide concentrations in sediments from the Hor Al-Hammar Marshes, Iraq, indicating that TOC levels may influence pesticide accumulation. The study, conducted over a year at three stations during low tide periods, identified Lindane as the most prevalent pesticide, with peak concentrations reaching 497.5 μg/kg in February, while Dialdrin showed the lowest levels (0.01 μg/kg) in March and November. No significant correlation was observed between silts and pesticide levels. The research highlights the spatial and temporal variability of pesticide distribution in this critical Mesopotamian wetland ecosystem.
The Effect of Changing River Nutrients on Changing Marshes in Southern Iraq: Central Marshlands /a Model
Fluctuations in water input from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers significantly alter the submerged land areas of the Central Marshlands in Southern Iraq, leading to ecosystem changes. The study highlights that these variations cause contraction and expansion of marshes, impacting their biodiversity and economic potential. To mitigate these effects, the research proposes using basin and low marshes as large water reservoirs during floods, alongside negotiating upstream water agreements for regular inspection and stability of Iraq's water resources. The descriptive analytical approach was employed to assess statistical data, providing insights into the dynamic nature of marsh ecosystems.
The paleoenvironment and depositional context of the Sumerian site of Abu Tbeirah (Nasiriyah, southern Mesopotamia, Iraq)
Abu Tbeirah, a Sumerian site near the capital of Ur, developed along a sinuous channel within a floodplain and marshy environment during the third millennium BC. Research reveals that this channel was abandoned after a significant flood event, with its remnants repurposed by residents as a small river harbor. This interdisciplinary study combines remote sensing, geomorphological analysis, sedimentology, paleontology, and paleobotany to reconstruct the site's landscape evolution and human exploitation of water resources. These findings provide critical insights into how environmental dynamics shaped Sumerian culture and settlement patterns in southern Mesopotamia.
The Study of Nature of Fish Assemblage in Al-Saffia Reservation, Al-Hawizah Marshes, Iraq.
A study of fish assemblages in Al-Saffia Reservation, part of Iraq's Hawizeh Marshes—a UNESCO-listed site—revealed seasonal variability in species richness and diversity. Over a one-year period (March 2006 to February 2007), researchers identified 16 fish species, with the highest abundance (13 species) recorded in July and the lowest (7 species) in November and January. Four dominant species—Alburnus mossulensis, Liza abu, Barbus luteus, and Carassius auratus—constituted over 70% of the assemblage, with A. mossulensis being the most prevalent at 20.64%. The study calculated annual indices for species richness (D = 1.95), diversity (H' = 2.12), and evenness (J = 0.76), highlighting the ecological dynamics of this critical wetland ecosystem. This research contributes to understanding biodiversity patterns in the Ahwar, a relict landscape of Mesopotamian cities.
222Rn,226Ra and 238U concentration in water samples for some marshes in Dhi-Qar governorate, Iraq
A study measuring radon (222Rn), radium (226Ra), and uranium (238U) concentrations in marsh waters of Dhi-Qar governorate, Iraq, found that while 222Rn and 226Ra levels were within global safety limits set by the WHO, 238U concentrations exceeded EPA recommendations. The research used Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors (SSNTDs) with CR-39 detectors to assess average internal effective dose risk (AED) and lifetime cancer risk from ingestion of these radioactive elements. Results indicated that consuming contaminated marsh water could significantly increase internal radiation exposure, with lifetime cancer risks surpassing safe drinking water thresholds. This highlights potential health hazards linked to uranium contamination in the region's marshes.
An Accuracy Analysis Comparison of Supervised Classification Methods for Mapping Land Cover Using Sentinel 2 Images in the Al‑Hawizeh Marsh Area, Southern Iraq
A comparative analysis of supervised classification methods for land cover mapping in the Al-Hawizeh Marsh, part of Iraq's UNESCO-listed Ahwar wetlands, reveals that Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) using Sentinel 2B satellite imagery achieves the highest accuracy. With an overall accuracy of 85.32% and a superior kappa coefficient compared to Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Support Vector Machine (SVM), MLC demonstrated its effectiveness in distinguishing six critical land cover classes: deep water marsh, shallow water marsh, aquatic vegetation, urban areas, agriculture, and barren soil. This finding is significant for monitoring biodiversity hotspots like the Ahwar, where spectral similarities pose challenges for accurate classification. The study utilized ENVI 5.1 software to analyze multispectral images with a spatial resolution of 10 meters, providing valuable insights for conservation efforts in these ecologically vital regions.
Climatic and environmental changes during the late Holocene at Harier area, North of Basrah Governorate, Southern Iraq
A new reconstruction of late Holocene climatic and environmental changes in the Harier area, Southern Iraq, reveals significant shifts in regional ecosystems. Analysis of 36 sediment samples identified five distinct pollen zones, indicating fluctuations in vegetation, climate, and hydrological conditions over the past few millennia. The study recorded approximately 30 species and 14 genera of pollen, alongside spores, fungi, and dinoflagellates, providing insights into the dynamic interactions between human settlements—such as those linked to Mesopotamian cities—and their surrounding marshes. This work advances understanding of how environmental changes in the Ahwar region, a UNESCO-listed biodiversity refuge, have evolved over time.
Deltas in Arid Environments
Arid deltas worldwide, including those of the Colorado, Indus, Nile, and Tigris-Euphrates rivers, are rapidly shrinking due to water diversion, salinization, subsidence, and climate change. Research highlights that re-establishing natural water flows—such as seasonal flooding—can mitigate ecological decline, as seen in the Colorado River delta. However, sustained recovery requires stakeholder collaboration and active management, compounded by political instability and population growth. The study underscores the urgent need for integrated strategies to restore these critical ecosystems before irreversible damage occurs.
Remote sensing applications for the assessment of the geomorphic response of fluvial systems to the Holocene Climate Changes
A multi-sensor remote sensing approach reveals that the Tigris-Euphrates river system in southern Iraq, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'The Ahwar of Southern Iraq,' exhibits a unique geomorphic configuration where channels rise several meters above the surrounding floodplain. This study identifies active and abandoned avulsion processes, crevasse channels, levees, and deposits, providing insights into the system's response to Holocene climate changes, shoreline shifts, and human activities. The research utilizes optical and multispectral imagery (TerraColor and Landsat 8) for visual inspection and multispectral indices (NDVI and Clay Ratio), alongside supervised classification and topographic analysis of two DEMs (AW30D30 and GDEM2). This method allows large- and medium-scale investigation, distinguishing between natural and human-induced features to evaluate their interactions.
Statistical model and assessment of geo-ecological changes in Al-Hoviz alluvial marches in southeastern Iraq and further forecasting of the water level in them
A descending trend in water levels is projected for the Al-Hoviz alluvial marshes in southeastern Iraq by 2029, driven primarily by precipitation and river flow dynamics. This finding stems from a statistical model analyzing climatic-hydrological interactions, including electrical conductivity, dissolved solids, temperature, and vegetation indices (NDVI) from 2010 to 2019. Key factors influencing water volume (W AM) and surface area (F) include precipitation and the flow of the Al-Musharrah River, while temperature and wind speed also play significant roles. The study employed factor analysis and forecasting via the Holt-Winters method in Minitab 18 and Statistica to highlight critical variables requiring urgent monitoring for conservation efforts.
Survey of Insects in Some Southern Iraqi Marshes
A comprehensive survey of insects in the southern Iraqi marshes identifies 109 species, including aquatic and surrounding taxa, representing 77 genera across 32 families and 7 orders. The study updates and unifies the database for these marsh ecosystems, with notable contributions from Coleoptera (44 species) and Odonata (29 species). Key findings include detailed specimen collection records, synonyms, and geographical distributions, providing critical insights into the biodiversity of this UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site. This research enhances our understanding of the insect diversity in one of the world's most ecologically significant regions.
The effect of some environmental variables on the abundance and distribution of aquatic macrophytes in Al-Hawizeh marsh, Iraq
Aquatic macrophyte communities in Al-Hawizeh marsh, Iraq, exhibit significant seasonal variations in abundance and distribution, with emerging plants dominating vegetation cover and biomass. The study, conducted from December 2017 to November 2018, found that emergent species like Phragmites australis reached the highest annual vegetation cover (85.5%) and biomass (844.02 gm dry weight/m²), while free-floating plants such as Salvinia polyrrhiza showed lower but notable values (66.67% cover). Environmental factors, including water temperature (11.3–31.4°C), dissolved oxygen (1.88–10.5 mg/L), pH (7.2–8.4), and electrical conductivity (2257–6859 μ.S/cm), correlated with these patterns, revealing the highest vegetation cover during summer months. The research highlights the marsh's dynamic ecosystem, where environmental variables play a crucial role in shaping macrophyte communities.
Assessment of some heavy metals in various aquatic plants of Al-Hawizeh Marsh, southern of Iraq
Aquatic plants in Al-Hawizeh Marsh, southern Iraq, exhibit significant heavy metal contamination, with cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and iron (Fe) levels exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Among the six species studied—Azolla filiculoides, Ceratophyllum demersum, Potamogeton pectinatus, Najas marina, Phragmites australis, and Typha domingensis—C. demersum and N. marina showed the highest accumulation of these metals. Seasonal variations were also observed, with higher concentrations detected during summer months. The study used bioconcentration factor (BCF) analysis to assess bioaccumulation, highlighting potential ecological risks to biodiversity in this UNESCO-listed wetland.
Can We Restore the Marches in Iraq (Garden of Eden)?
A critical assessment of the feasibility of restoring Iraq's marshes, once spanning 15,000 to 20,000 square kilometers, reveals that despite political shifts and a renewed focus on restoration after 2003, significant water scarcity—driven by upstream dam construction and climate change—poses substantial challenges. The study suggests that with a prudent water resources strategy, the remaining 75% of the marshes could be restored, requiring approximately 13 billion cubic kilometers of water. This analysis highlights the delicate balance between ecological restoration and resource management in this biodiversity-rich region, often referred to as the 'Garden of Eden.'
Land cover reflectance of Iraqi marshlands based on visible spectral multiband of satellite imagery
Iraqi marshlands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and critical biodiversity refuge, have undergone dramatic changes over 48 years (1972–2020), with their water surface nearly doubling from its lowest point in 2000. This study reveals that supervised classification of satellite imagery—using Landsat MSS, TM, ETM+, and OLI/TIRS data—is the most cost-effective method for detecting environmental shifts such as water loss, vegetation cover, and desertification. While the marshes shrank to just 432 km² by 2000 due to desiccation, they rebounded to 4,335 km² by 2020, with notable declines in 2015 and 2018. The average water surface increased from 1,877 km² in the first stage (1972–2000) to 2,012 km² in the second (2000–2020), highlighting both recovery efforts and ongoing vulnerabilities.
Studying the Diversity of Freshwater Ecosystems in Iraq. Do We Need Different Approaches?
Freshwater ecosystems in Iraq, particularly within the Ahwar regionsdemonstrate significant but understudied biodiversity. Current research relies heavily on traditional methods like water pollution assessments and toxicity studies, which, while crucial, fail to capture the full complexity of these ecosystems. The study advocates for integrating novel approaches such as food web analysis, functional biodiversity assessment, and hydrological studies to better understand threats to aquatic biota and their habitats. These methods could provide deeper insights into climate change impacts and pave the way for more effective water resource management in Iraq, ultimately contributing to the conservation of this critical relict landscape.
Trophic levels of Tidal and Non-Tidal Marshes of Southern Mesopotamia
Southern Mesopotamian marshes, including both tidal and non-tidal systems, exhibit eutrophic conditions primarily due to untreated domestic sewage and agricultural runoff. A study applying Carlson’s Trophic State Index (CTSI) across six stations—three in the non-tidal Chebiyesh marshes and three in the tidal East Hammer marsh—revealed CTSI values ranging from 47.59 to 61.96, indicating mesotrophic to eutrophic status. Notably, salinity spikes in 2018 significantly altered CTSI values in the East Hammer marsh, highlighting the sensitivity of these ecosystems to environmental changes. The findings underscore the broader impact of water quality parameters such as transparency, chlorophyll-a, and phosphorus concentrations on trophic dynamics in these critical wetlands.
Using GIS Technique for evaluating water quality of Abu Zarag marsh during the flood season
Abu Zarag marsh, part of Iraq's UNESCO-listed Ahwar wetlands, showed significant recovery and improved water quality during the 2018-2019 flood season. The study, using GIS techniques, analyzed key parameters such as temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen, revealing a notable refilling of the marsh and restoration of its natural environment. Comparative analysis with data from 2014 to 2019 highlighted trends in water quality, while flooding modeling through ArcGIS-Arc Scene provided insights into the marsh's dynamic hydrological processes. This research underscores the ecological resilience of Abu Zarag marsh and offers valuable data for conservation efforts.
Water quality dynamics of alluvial marches Al-Khaweze of southeastern Iraq
Water quality in the alluvial marshes of Al-Khaweze, southeastern Iraq, has deteriorated significantly due to increased precipitation and river flow, leading to elevated levels of turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and total dissolved solids beyond permissible limits. This degradation is linked to environmental changes observed in 2018 and 2019, which affected the region's hydrochemical balance. The study analyzed three sections of the marshes, revealing widespread exceedances that pose risks to biodiversity and the UNESCO-listed Mesopotamian landscape.
Classification of The Key Functional Diversity of the Marshes of Southern Iraq Marshes
Southern Iraq's marshes, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'The Ahwar of Southern Iraq,' exhibit unique functional diversity that distinguishes them globally. This study classifies their key functions and assesses how they vary due to environmental influences, providing a framework for rehabilitation efforts. The research combines ecological analysis with functional diversity metrics to map marshland dynamics, offering critical insights for conservation strategies.
Uruk, Irak. Wissenschaftliche Forschungen 2019
New archaeological discoveries in Uruk, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'The Ahwar of Southern Iraq,' reveal significant insights into the city's early 3rd millennium BC fortifications and a sacred structure outside its walls. The research, conducted in collaboration with Iraqi authorities, utilized advanced aerial photography to generate detailed topographic plans and map archaeological remains, while geophysical prospection and environmental surveys expanded the understanding of Uruk's landscape. These findings contribute to the broader study of Mesopotamian urban development and biodiversity conservation within the Ahwar region. Additionally, the project provided training for local and European junior archaeologists, fostering capacity-building in both fields.
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