Click on image for larger annotated version
This image of the northern end of the Persian Gulf and the broad delta
complex of the Tigris, Euphrates, Shatt al Arab, and Karun rivers has
captured the arid-looking wetlands of northeast Kuwait (Bubiyan Island),
the narrow corridor that is Iraq's only access to the Persian Gulf, and
the west-southwest marshes of Iran. Date groves line the Shatt al Arab
River in the center of the image. The city of Abadan is visible at the top
of the image along the Shatt al Arab River. The broad deltaic plain is
noticeably asymmetrical in profile, with the deepest water occurring along
the Iranian coast and a broad shallow area, which is usually less than 120
feet deep, along the Arabian coast. The Tigris-Euphrates delta complex is
mainly floored with gray-green mud rich in calcium carbonate.
The delta of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers has suffered substantial
environmental changes because of drainage, pollution, and urban and
industrial development. Water normally supplied to the region has been
diverted for irrigation and domestic and industrial consumption; wetlands
have been drained for agriculture and industrial purposes; and the
construction of dams has decreased the amount of fresh water from the
Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, resulting in small quantities of silt being
deposited in the delta of these once mighty rivers. Because natural
materials are used for construction, the few towns and villages within the
delta area tend to blend with the natural environment.
Photojournal note:
EarthKam was formerly known as KidSat. To see images of KidSat, see
http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/mission/KidSat .