A Geographical Analysis of Biodiversity in the Wetland Environment of Dhi Qar Marshes

Abstract

This study aims to assess the environmental and biological status of the wetland ecosystem within the study area. It seeks to identify the characteristics of its water and the biodiversity of its plant and animal life, as well as to understand the prevailing environmental and biological changes. Furthermore, the study explores the appropriate measures needed to protect both aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna that have faced significant challenges in the region.To achieve this, the researcher collected six water samples from various locations within the marshes of the study area to analyze the concentrations of water pollutants, including: Electrical Conductivity (E.C), Total Dissolved Solids (T.D.S), pH level, Calcium (Ca), Chlorides (Cl), Sulfates (SO₄), Nitrates (NO₃), and Dissolved Oxygen (DO).

The study also addressed the current state of plant and animal biodiversity in the marshes of Dhi Qar Governorate. The findings indicate a degradation in water quality in the marshes, which has had a clear negative impact on biodiversity. The increase in salinity and pollution caused by domestic and agricultural wastewater, combined with a reduction in water inflows, has led to a significant decline in the number and types of living organisms, especially fish, birds, and aquatic plants.