Plant Distribution with Geological Features in Teeb as a Potential Geopark Area, Misan Governorate, Iraq

Abstract

Abstract. There is an inherent connection between living and non-living nature. Variability in geology, soils, topography, geomorphology, and hydrology is known as geodiversity and is considered the basis and stage of biodiversity. Field surveys in the Teeb area, Misan Governorate, Iraq, showed that it comprises shallow depressions, fill deposits of clay, sand, and silt sediments less than one meter thick, and flat floodplain sediments containing sand and clay in varying percentages. Dunes and sand sheets are also dispersed throughout the Teeb area.  With an average of 49.6% silt, 34.4% clay, and 15.9% sand, the texture analyses of the sediment samples from the nine locations show that silt makes up a sizable portion of the study site's sediment. The diversity of plants in the Al-Teeb area varies according to soil types, sediments, and water availability. At the study's family level, the plant samples are diagnosed. 39 monocotyledonous and 114 dicotyledonous plant species from the Amaryllidaceae, Cyperaceae, Liliaceae, and Poaceae families were found. However, the Asteraceae family has the most incredible species diversity because of its resilience to harsh environmental factors like salt and water scarcity. Although there are fewer species from the other families, they are observed. The novelty of this research is that it indicates the suitable geological and biological characteristics of the Teeb area as a potential Geopark area for geotourism and entertainment potential. This potential is an opportunity for local development. Different types of rural recreational activities can be done at geological sites.