Central Marshes, Wetland ecosystem in southern Iraq
The Central Marshes form a wetland ecosystem in southern Iraq composed of interconnected water bodies, reed stands, and aquatic vegetation. This landscape is part of the Tigris-Euphrates river system and includes freshwater lakes separated by tall vegetation that creates a maze-like terrain.
This region was a thriving inhabited landscape for thousands of years until deliberate drainage projects in the 1990s devastated it. Restoration efforts began after 2003 when water was gradually returned and international protection measures were established.
Residents here build reed houses using age-old techniques with materials gathered directly from the wetlands. Daily life revolves around boats for travel and fishing, maintaining practices that have shaped the landscape for generations.
A permit and experienced local guide are required to visit safely, as navigation through the water channels requires local knowledge. Boats are the only way to reach remote areas and see wildlife in their natural habitat.
This wetland functions as a natural water purification system, filtering out pollutants from the river before they spread downstream. This ecological role makes the marshes economically valuable for the region's water management.
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