Tahereh Habibi | Shiraz University (original) (raw)

Papers by Tahereh Habibi

Heritage

Geoheritage requires proper conservation and has significant importance for geoscience education ... more Geoheritage requires proper conservation and has significant importance for geoscience education at universities. Furthermore, its related potential needs to be evaluated. This study focuses on two textbook localities (these are parts of larger geosites) from the Cenozoic orogenic belts, namely the Zagros and the Greater Caucasus. The novel, tentatively proposed approach aims at general geological characteristics of the localities, identification of the principal teaching topics and teaching opportunities, and semi-quantitative evaluation of the educational potential on the basis of several objective criteria. The Abmorghan anticline (Zagros, Iran) is suitable for learning about the regional Paleogene stratigraphy, carbonate platform evolution, and karst. The locality of the Skala monocline (Greater Caucasus, Russia) allows the deposition in past tropical conditions and monocline structures to be explained. Both localities can be used for training student skills and challenging thei...

Journal of Geology & Geophysics, Jul 16, 2015

Historical Biology, 2021

ABSTRACT This study reconsiders the previous biostratigraphic settings for the Asmari Formation i... more ABSTRACT This study reconsiders the previous biostratigraphic settings for the Asmari Formation in the eastern Zagros Basin (Fars Basin). The results imply that the Rupelian is identified by the total range zone of the Nummulites species (N. vascus, N. fichteli, N. intermedius). The occurrence of Archaias kirkukensis, A. hensoni, and A. asmaricus before the disappearance of Nummulites species in the current study and even the co-occurrence of the A. hensoni with the mentioned species prevents the use of recently proposed regional stratigraphical framework. The lower part of the Asmari Formation remains without certain age until the occurrence of larger benthic foraminifera throughout the Asmari platform. The coeval biozones for the Chattian Stage are Biozone 59, Biozone 2(b), Archaias asmaricus-A. hensoni-Miogypsinoides complanatus Assemblage Zone, and a part of Assemblage Zone 7 as named by the previous studies. In this study species like Archaias, Austrotrillina, Borelis and Peneroplis are not useful for discriminating the Rupelian and Chattian stages.

Journal of Stratigraphy and Sedimentology Researches, 2016

The Oligocene-Miocene shallow marine limestone, Asmari Formation, from the Zagros Basin, SW Iran,... more The Oligocene-Miocene shallow marine limestone, Asmari Formation, from the Zagros Basin, SW Iran, constitutes one of the main hydrocarbon reservoirs in the world. This succession shows a variety of facies patterns and depositional architectures. Also these strata contain a rich fauna of planktonic and benthic foraminifera. Larger benthic foraminifera are considered to be good indicators of shallow marine environments. Distribution of this group in addition to other biogenic components (mollusk, echinoid, bryozoan, coral, corralinacean, brachiopod, worm tube, etc.) and sedimentary structure, along the stratigraphic sequence of the Asmari Formation is used in this research as a tool for introducing the biostratigraphic correlation and foraminiferal associations. In order to study the foraminiferal associations and biostratigraphic correlation of the Asmari Formation in the Fars Basin, four stratigraphic sections were selected, include: Shool, Kaftarak, Darengoon, and Noorabad sections...

Acta Geologica Sinica ‐ English Edition, 2018

The Oligocene–Miocene carbonate record of the Zagros Mountains, known as the Asmari Formation, co... more The Oligocene–Miocene carbonate record of the Zagros Mountains, known as the Asmari Formation, constitutes an important hydrocarbon reservoir in southern Iran. This marine carbonate succession, which developed under tropical conditions, is explored in terms of larger foraminiferal biostratigraphy, facies analysis and sequence stratigraphy in a new section at Papoon cropping out in the western Fars sub‐basin, in the south‐east of the Zagros belt. Facies analysis shows evidence of re‐working and transport of skeletal components throughout the depositional system, interpreted here as a carbonate ramp. The foraminifera‐based biozones identified include the Globigerina–Turborotalia cerroazulensis–Hantkenina Zone and Nummulites vascus–Nummulites fichteli Zone, both of Rupelian age, the Archaias asmaricus–Archaias hensoni–Miogypsinoides complanatus Zone of Chattian age and the ‘Indeterminate’ Zone of Aquitanian age. The vertical sedimentary evolution of the formation exhibits a progressive...

Well exposed Famennian, mainly carbonate rocks of the Bahram Formation in the vicinity of Bagher ... more Well exposed Famennian, mainly carbonate rocks of the Bahram Formation in the vicinity of Bagher Abad village, Central Iran,yielded chondrichthyan teeth some sarcopterygii and actinopterygii teeth and fragments. Three different genera were recognizedamong the chondrichthyan teeth represented by: Phoebodus turnerae, Ph. spp., Deihim mansureae (M2, M3), Stethacanthus sp..Acanthodian and sarcopterygians teeth and fragments include: Dipnoi indet., Onychodonthid tooth?, Osteichthyes bone andPaleonisciformes indet. This assemblage recovered from a shallow shelf environment on the northern margin of Gondwana during LateDevonian time.

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2016

In this research larger benthic foraminiferal distribution and their paleoenvironmental character... more In this research larger benthic foraminiferal distribution and their paleoenvironmental characteristics are used to introduce biostratigraphic zonation, paleoenvironmental reconstruction and paleoecological interpretation of the Oligocene Asmari Formation in Fars Province. Two stratigraphic successions were examined for these purposes. The first (Khollar Section) is Rupelian in age and the second (Siakh Section) is of Chattian age. Recognized assemblage zones are: 1-Nummulites vascus-Nummulites fichteli and 2-Archaias asmaricus/hensoni-Miogypsinoides complanatus. Four microfacies types are identified according to the occurrence of the main biogenic components. They were arranged along the inner part of a carbonate platform. A shallowing upward trend in microfacies arrangement from Rupelian to Chattian times is considered according to the occurrence of larger benthic foraminifera. Two foraminiferal associations are recognized in the investigated sections. The identified foraminiferal associations represent a salinity value of 40 to 50 psu and a depth range of lower than 40m, warm tropical and subtropical waters with temperature of 18-25ºC at Rupelian time. More restricted conditions through Chattian Stage has resulted in a shallower depth and higher salinity of more than 50 psu, with water temperature being higher than 20ºC in the oligotrophic to meotrophic conditions. Restricted conditions in marine circulation is suggested to have controlled these associations.

Acta Geologica Polonica, 2011

Well exposed Tournaisian, mainly carbonate, rocks of the Mobarak Formation in the area of Shahmir... more Well exposed Tournaisian, mainly carbonate, rocks of the Mobarak Formation in the area of Shahmirzad village, Central Alborz, Iran, yielded almost 200 chondrichthyan teeth and scales, associated with numerous actinopterygian microremains. Ten different taxa were recognised among the chondrichthyan teeth, of which the most abundant are those representing Euselachii (Protacrodus and Lissodus), Symmoriiformes (Denaea), and Phoebodontiformes (Thrinacodus). The high relative abundance of protacrodont crushing teeth, but lack of holocephalian dental elements suggest that the sediments forming the Shahmirzad section were deposited in a shallow shelf environment, but probably not on a carbonate platform.

Geoheritage, 2022

The Zagros Mountains is a geologically rich domain, but the knowledge of its geoheritage resource... more The Zagros Mountains is a geologically rich domain, but the knowledge of its geoheritage resource remains restricted. Investigations in its southern part reveal uniqueness of the Jashak Mountain, which is a huge landform representing head of a salt diapir. Effective management of such localities requires their proper description and interpretation in the terms of geoheritage resources. Geomorphological, stratigraphical, sedimentary, tectonic, mineralogical, and paleogeographical features are found there. This locality represents a typical diapir of the Hormuz Series. This piece of geoheritage is proposed as the Jashak salt diapir geosite, which is classified as a global, complex, and areal geosite. This is simultaneously geomorphosite, and availability of panoramic views makes it also viewpoint geosite. The information from this locality is useful for further geoscience research, educational excursions for university students, and (geo)tourists. Managing such geoheritage resources can be linked to regional economical initiatives, which is important to attract tourist flows and to obtain some administrative and financial support.

Geologos, 2020

Geological heritage can contribute to our understanding of the long-term evolution of important s... more Geological heritage can contribute to our understanding of the long-term evolution of important sectors of our planet. Cretaceous–Neogene rocks (chiefly carbonates) crop out in the Nowdan anticline of the Zagros orogen. Field investigations have permitted the establishment of 10 key localities (stratigraphical reference sections) that represent these rocks within this anticline, which is a single large geosite. The formations are related to the main phases in the evolution of the northeastern sector of the African–Arabian continental margin. For instance, carbonate rocks of the Asmari Formation mark changes in the affinity of the study area, from the African–Arabian plate to only the Arabian plate, separated in conjunction with Red Sea rifting during the Oligocene. Information on the palaeogeographical changes is really precious to geoscientists and geotourists alike, and contributes to the great value of the Nowdan anticline geosite. Evidence from the latter, as well as from a few ...

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2018

Ophiolites and related sedimentary rocks are valuable geological archives. In the Zagros Fold-Thr... more Ophiolites and related sedimentary rocks are valuable geological archives. In the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt, the Neyriz ophiolite and the related Pichakun radiolarites have been well-known for decades and studied intensively. Field investigations of these radiolarites near Neyriz town and review of the already published knowledge permit to realize that these rocks provide outstanding (for the territory of Iran) sedimentary, palaeogeographical, palaeontological, and tectonic information that has been employed historically for studies of ophiolitic assemblages of the Zagros. This evidence implies the national uniqueness of the Pichakun radiolarites.The Abbarik section exhibiting these rocks overlain unconformably by the Tarbur limestones is selected as a respresentative geosite of the potential geoheritage. This geosite can be interesting to researchers, educators, and (geo)tourists. Aesthetic properties of the geosite are determined by colour and pattern. Together with the other ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT geosites established in the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt, the Abbarik geosite can be included into a possible geopark demonstrating three themes, namely Zagros geology, spectrum of marine palaeoenvironments, and evolution of major subduction and collision zones. The established geoheritage seems to be a part of the internationally-important ophiolite-related geoheritage represented in a few geosites and geoparks of some other countries (Cyprus,

Resources Policy, 2018

Cities often possess unique geological features (geoheritage), but knowledge relevant to its desc... more Cities often possess unique geological features (geoheritage), but knowledge relevant to its description still remains limited. Urban geoheritage can be defined as the entity of unique geological objects, geological processes, and pieces of geological environment on urban territories and within close vicinities of cities that are important to modern society because of their scientific, educational, and touristic value. The inventory of the urban geoheritage of Shiraz (a big city in the Fars Province of southwest Iran) allows for the description of several in situ and ex situ geoheritage features: 1) two viewpoint geosites (sites with panoramic views of the Zagros landforms and geological formations), 2) the salt Maharloo Lake with its hydrological and geochemical peculiarities, 3) geological specimens in museum collections and museum art objects (stone carvings and statues) with rock peculiarities and abundant fossil remains, and 4) decorative natural stones (with well-visible shells of fossil invertebrates) in building facades and street benches. This urban geoheritage appears to be a useful resource for scientists, educators, and geotourists. The complexity of the Shiraz's geoheritage is determined by its combination with historical and cultural heritage, as well as by the existence of several geoheritage types and forms. The geoheritage of Shiraz can be used for diversification of the local tourism industry. It should be also considered as a component of the city's socio-ecological system and factor contributing to urban environment and streetscape perception.

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2017

Unique palaeogeographical peculiarities of sedimentary formations are important for geological he... more Unique palaeogeographical peculiarities of sedimentary formations are important for geological heritage conservation and use for the purposes of tourism. The heritage value of the Pabdeh Formation (Paleocene-Oligocene) of the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt in Iran has been investigated. The uniqueness of its palaeogeographical peculiarities has been assessed on the basis of the literature, field studies of three representative sections in the Fars Province (Kavar, Zanjiran, and Shahneshin sections), and comparison with the similar features known in Iran and globally. The Pabdeh Formation reflects the process of mixed siliciclastic-carbonate ramp progradation and the onset of a typical carbonate platform. The other unique features include representation of mesopelagic palaeohabitat, specific trace ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT fossil assemblages, prehistoric bituminous artefacts (production of which was linked to the Pabdeh deposits), etc. It is established that the palaeogeographical type of geological heritage of the Pabdeh Formation is represented by all known subtypes, namely facies, palaeoecosystem, ichnological, taphonomical, event, and geoarchaeological subtypes. Their rank varies between regional and global. The very fact of co-occurrence of these subtypes determines the global importance of the entire palaeogeographical type in the case of this formation. The establishment of geopark in the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt will facilitate adequate use of the Pabdeh Formation for the purpose of geotourism development. The aesthetic properties (rocks of different colour and striped patterns of outcrops) increase the attractiveness of this geological body to visitors.

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2017

Abstract The ideas of geological heritage and geological diversity have become very popular in th... more Abstract The ideas of geological heritage and geological diversity have become very popular in the modern science. These are usually applied to geological domains or countries, provinces, districts, etc. Additionally, it appears to be sensible to assess heritage value of geological bodies. The review of the available knowledge and the field investigation of the Gachsaran Formation (lower Miocene) in southwest Iran permit to assign its features and the relevant phenomena to as much as 10 geological heritage types, namely stratigraphical, sedimentary, palaeontological, palaeogeographical, geomorphological, hydrogeological, engineering, structural, economical, and geohistorical types. The outstanding diversity of the features of this formation determines its high heritage value and the national rank. The geological heritage of the Gachsaran Formation is important to scientists, educators, and tourists. The Papoon and Abolhaiat sections of this formation are potential geological heritage sites, although these do not represent all above-mentioned types. The large territory, where the Gachsaran Formation outcrop, has a significant geoconservation and geotourism potential, and further inventory of geosites on this territory is necessary. Similar studies of geological bodies in North Africa and the Middle East can facilitate better understanding of the geological heritage of this vast territory.

GeoResJ, 2017

This is a PDF file of an unedited manuscript that has been accepted for publication. As a service... more This is a PDF file of an unedited manuscript that has been accepted for publication. As a service to our customers we are providing this early version of the manuscript. The manuscript will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and review of the resulting proof before it is published in its final form. Please note that during the production process errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain. Highlights  The calcareous Mishan Formation (Neogene) is widespread in the Zagros Basin  The Mishan and Esmaeil-Abad sections are potential global geosites  Rich Miocene fossil assemblages occur in these global geosites  Sections are valuable for researchers, educators, and geotourists  A geopark might be established in Zagros New evidence of highly-complex geological heritage in Iran: Miocene sections in the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2017

North Africa and the Middle East possess rich geological heritage, but the latter is yet to be fu... more North Africa and the Middle East possess rich geological heritage, but the latter is yet to be fully identified and described. The Oligocene carbonate platform of the Zagros Basin in southwest Iran, which corresponds to the lower part of the Asmari Formation, has significant potential for geoconservation and geotourism. The types of the geological heritage, their value, and the possible geosites have been assessed. The studied deposits are interesting because of lithology (carbonate rocks), fossils (larger foraminifera, other microfossils, diverse marine invertebrates, fish microremains, and trace fossils), biostratigraphical developments, facies (homoclinal carbonate ramp) and signature of global events (glacioeustatic fluctuations), and outstanding hydrocarbon resources. The five main geological heritage types are sedimentary, palaeontological, stratigraphical, palaeogeographical, and economical, from which the palaeontological, palaeogeographical, ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT and economical types are of global rank. The Khollar and Kavar sections in the Fars Province of Iran are recommended as geosites suitable for research, education, and tourism. The high complexity of the geological heritage linked to the Oligocene carbonate platform of the Zagros Basin implies the phenomenon of geodiversity should be understood with regard to the relationships between types and their values.

Acta Geologica Sinica - English Edition, 2021

Two stratigraphic sections (Arjooieh and Firoozabad) of the Mymand anticline located in the Inter... more Two stratigraphic sections (Arjooieh and Firoozabad) of the Mymand anticline located in the Interior Fars sub-basin of the Zagros mountains were measured and sampled in order to document sedimentological characteristics, microfacies types, and paleo-seagrasses indicators of the Oligocene succession (Asmari Fm.). Planktonic and benthic foraminifera and coralline red algae are the principal fossils from these strata. Foraminifera are represented by the following families: Soritidae, Peneroplidae, Austrotrillinidae, Alveolinidae, Planorbulinidae, Discorbidae, Lepidocyclinidae, Amphisteginidae, Rotaliidae, Nummulitidae, and Globigerinidae. Nine microfacies types were recognized, namely planktonic foraminiferal-peloidal packstone (MF1), bioclast nummulitid/Nerorotalia/Amphistegina packstone-grainstone-rudstonefloatstone(MF2), Neorotalia-echinoid coralline red algae packstone-grainstone (MF3), coral boundstone (MF4), coral/coralline red algae rudstone-floatstone-packstone-grainstone (MF5), diverse imperforate foraminifera bioclast packstone-grainstone (MF6), pelloid wackestonepackstone-grainstone (MF7), fenestrated mudstone and microbial mats (MF8), and anhydrite (MF9). MF1 indicates on outer ramp, MFs 2-4 represent middle ramp, and MFs 5-9 are interpreted as inner ramp environment. Paleo-seagrass indicators are consisting of foraminifera, hooked and tabular forms of coralline red algae, and corals. They were determined in MFs 5 and 6 reflecting the presence of vegetated environments within the middle-inner ramp setting. The Mymand anticline was dominated by the outer ramp environment at the start of the Rupelian. Middle to inner ramp environments prevailed during the Rupelian. The Chattian was correspond to the spread of inner ramp setting over the Mymand anticline.

Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transactions A: Science, 2017

Heritage

Geoheritage requires proper conservation and has significant importance for geoscience education ... more Geoheritage requires proper conservation and has significant importance for geoscience education at universities. Furthermore, its related potential needs to be evaluated. This study focuses on two textbook localities (these are parts of larger geosites) from the Cenozoic orogenic belts, namely the Zagros and the Greater Caucasus. The novel, tentatively proposed approach aims at general geological characteristics of the localities, identification of the principal teaching topics and teaching opportunities, and semi-quantitative evaluation of the educational potential on the basis of several objective criteria. The Abmorghan anticline (Zagros, Iran) is suitable for learning about the regional Paleogene stratigraphy, carbonate platform evolution, and karst. The locality of the Skala monocline (Greater Caucasus, Russia) allows the deposition in past tropical conditions and monocline structures to be explained. Both localities can be used for training student skills and challenging thei...

Journal of Geology & Geophysics, Jul 16, 2015

Historical Biology, 2021

ABSTRACT This study reconsiders the previous biostratigraphic settings for the Asmari Formation i... more ABSTRACT This study reconsiders the previous biostratigraphic settings for the Asmari Formation in the eastern Zagros Basin (Fars Basin). The results imply that the Rupelian is identified by the total range zone of the Nummulites species (N. vascus, N. fichteli, N. intermedius). The occurrence of Archaias kirkukensis, A. hensoni, and A. asmaricus before the disappearance of Nummulites species in the current study and even the co-occurrence of the A. hensoni with the mentioned species prevents the use of recently proposed regional stratigraphical framework. The lower part of the Asmari Formation remains without certain age until the occurrence of larger benthic foraminifera throughout the Asmari platform. The coeval biozones for the Chattian Stage are Biozone 59, Biozone 2(b), Archaias asmaricus-A. hensoni-Miogypsinoides complanatus Assemblage Zone, and a part of Assemblage Zone 7 as named by the previous studies. In this study species like Archaias, Austrotrillina, Borelis and Peneroplis are not useful for discriminating the Rupelian and Chattian stages.

Journal of Stratigraphy and Sedimentology Researches, 2016

The Oligocene-Miocene shallow marine limestone, Asmari Formation, from the Zagros Basin, SW Iran,... more The Oligocene-Miocene shallow marine limestone, Asmari Formation, from the Zagros Basin, SW Iran, constitutes one of the main hydrocarbon reservoirs in the world. This succession shows a variety of facies patterns and depositional architectures. Also these strata contain a rich fauna of planktonic and benthic foraminifera. Larger benthic foraminifera are considered to be good indicators of shallow marine environments. Distribution of this group in addition to other biogenic components (mollusk, echinoid, bryozoan, coral, corralinacean, brachiopod, worm tube, etc.) and sedimentary structure, along the stratigraphic sequence of the Asmari Formation is used in this research as a tool for introducing the biostratigraphic correlation and foraminiferal associations. In order to study the foraminiferal associations and biostratigraphic correlation of the Asmari Formation in the Fars Basin, four stratigraphic sections were selected, include: Shool, Kaftarak, Darengoon, and Noorabad sections...

Acta Geologica Sinica ‐ English Edition, 2018

The Oligocene–Miocene carbonate record of the Zagros Mountains, known as the Asmari Formation, co... more The Oligocene–Miocene carbonate record of the Zagros Mountains, known as the Asmari Formation, constitutes an important hydrocarbon reservoir in southern Iran. This marine carbonate succession, which developed under tropical conditions, is explored in terms of larger foraminiferal biostratigraphy, facies analysis and sequence stratigraphy in a new section at Papoon cropping out in the western Fars sub‐basin, in the south‐east of the Zagros belt. Facies analysis shows evidence of re‐working and transport of skeletal components throughout the depositional system, interpreted here as a carbonate ramp. The foraminifera‐based biozones identified include the Globigerina–Turborotalia cerroazulensis–Hantkenina Zone and Nummulites vascus–Nummulites fichteli Zone, both of Rupelian age, the Archaias asmaricus–Archaias hensoni–Miogypsinoides complanatus Zone of Chattian age and the ‘Indeterminate’ Zone of Aquitanian age. The vertical sedimentary evolution of the formation exhibits a progressive...

Well exposed Famennian, mainly carbonate rocks of the Bahram Formation in the vicinity of Bagher ... more Well exposed Famennian, mainly carbonate rocks of the Bahram Formation in the vicinity of Bagher Abad village, Central Iran,yielded chondrichthyan teeth some sarcopterygii and actinopterygii teeth and fragments. Three different genera were recognizedamong the chondrichthyan teeth represented by: Phoebodus turnerae, Ph. spp., Deihim mansureae (M2, M3), Stethacanthus sp..Acanthodian and sarcopterygians teeth and fragments include: Dipnoi indet., Onychodonthid tooth?, Osteichthyes bone andPaleonisciformes indet. This assemblage recovered from a shallow shelf environment on the northern margin of Gondwana during LateDevonian time.

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2016

In this research larger benthic foraminiferal distribution and their paleoenvironmental character... more In this research larger benthic foraminiferal distribution and their paleoenvironmental characteristics are used to introduce biostratigraphic zonation, paleoenvironmental reconstruction and paleoecological interpretation of the Oligocene Asmari Formation in Fars Province. Two stratigraphic successions were examined for these purposes. The first (Khollar Section) is Rupelian in age and the second (Siakh Section) is of Chattian age. Recognized assemblage zones are: 1-Nummulites vascus-Nummulites fichteli and 2-Archaias asmaricus/hensoni-Miogypsinoides complanatus. Four microfacies types are identified according to the occurrence of the main biogenic components. They were arranged along the inner part of a carbonate platform. A shallowing upward trend in microfacies arrangement from Rupelian to Chattian times is considered according to the occurrence of larger benthic foraminifera. Two foraminiferal associations are recognized in the investigated sections. The identified foraminiferal associations represent a salinity value of 40 to 50 psu and a depth range of lower than 40m, warm tropical and subtropical waters with temperature of 18-25ºC at Rupelian time. More restricted conditions through Chattian Stage has resulted in a shallower depth and higher salinity of more than 50 psu, with water temperature being higher than 20ºC in the oligotrophic to meotrophic conditions. Restricted conditions in marine circulation is suggested to have controlled these associations.

Acta Geologica Polonica, 2011

Well exposed Tournaisian, mainly carbonate, rocks of the Mobarak Formation in the area of Shahmir... more Well exposed Tournaisian, mainly carbonate, rocks of the Mobarak Formation in the area of Shahmirzad village, Central Alborz, Iran, yielded almost 200 chondrichthyan teeth and scales, associated with numerous actinopterygian microremains. Ten different taxa were recognised among the chondrichthyan teeth, of which the most abundant are those representing Euselachii (Protacrodus and Lissodus), Symmoriiformes (Denaea), and Phoebodontiformes (Thrinacodus). The high relative abundance of protacrodont crushing teeth, but lack of holocephalian dental elements suggest that the sediments forming the Shahmirzad section were deposited in a shallow shelf environment, but probably not on a carbonate platform.

Geoheritage, 2022

The Zagros Mountains is a geologically rich domain, but the knowledge of its geoheritage resource... more The Zagros Mountains is a geologically rich domain, but the knowledge of its geoheritage resource remains restricted. Investigations in its southern part reveal uniqueness of the Jashak Mountain, which is a huge landform representing head of a salt diapir. Effective management of such localities requires their proper description and interpretation in the terms of geoheritage resources. Geomorphological, stratigraphical, sedimentary, tectonic, mineralogical, and paleogeographical features are found there. This locality represents a typical diapir of the Hormuz Series. This piece of geoheritage is proposed as the Jashak salt diapir geosite, which is classified as a global, complex, and areal geosite. This is simultaneously geomorphosite, and availability of panoramic views makes it also viewpoint geosite. The information from this locality is useful for further geoscience research, educational excursions for university students, and (geo)tourists. Managing such geoheritage resources can be linked to regional economical initiatives, which is important to attract tourist flows and to obtain some administrative and financial support.

Geologos, 2020

Geological heritage can contribute to our understanding of the long-term evolution of important s... more Geological heritage can contribute to our understanding of the long-term evolution of important sectors of our planet. Cretaceous–Neogene rocks (chiefly carbonates) crop out in the Nowdan anticline of the Zagros orogen. Field investigations have permitted the establishment of 10 key localities (stratigraphical reference sections) that represent these rocks within this anticline, which is a single large geosite. The formations are related to the main phases in the evolution of the northeastern sector of the African–Arabian continental margin. For instance, carbonate rocks of the Asmari Formation mark changes in the affinity of the study area, from the African–Arabian plate to only the Arabian plate, separated in conjunction with Red Sea rifting during the Oligocene. Information on the palaeogeographical changes is really precious to geoscientists and geotourists alike, and contributes to the great value of the Nowdan anticline geosite. Evidence from the latter, as well as from a few ...

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2018

Ophiolites and related sedimentary rocks are valuable geological archives. In the Zagros Fold-Thr... more Ophiolites and related sedimentary rocks are valuable geological archives. In the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt, the Neyriz ophiolite and the related Pichakun radiolarites have been well-known for decades and studied intensively. Field investigations of these radiolarites near Neyriz town and review of the already published knowledge permit to realize that these rocks provide outstanding (for the territory of Iran) sedimentary, palaeogeographical, palaeontological, and tectonic information that has been employed historically for studies of ophiolitic assemblages of the Zagros. This evidence implies the national uniqueness of the Pichakun radiolarites.The Abbarik section exhibiting these rocks overlain unconformably by the Tarbur limestones is selected as a respresentative geosite of the potential geoheritage. This geosite can be interesting to researchers, educators, and (geo)tourists. Aesthetic properties of the geosite are determined by colour and pattern. Together with the other ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT geosites established in the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt, the Abbarik geosite can be included into a possible geopark demonstrating three themes, namely Zagros geology, spectrum of marine palaeoenvironments, and evolution of major subduction and collision zones. The established geoheritage seems to be a part of the internationally-important ophiolite-related geoheritage represented in a few geosites and geoparks of some other countries (Cyprus,

Resources Policy, 2018

Cities often possess unique geological features (geoheritage), but knowledge relevant to its desc... more Cities often possess unique geological features (geoheritage), but knowledge relevant to its description still remains limited. Urban geoheritage can be defined as the entity of unique geological objects, geological processes, and pieces of geological environment on urban territories and within close vicinities of cities that are important to modern society because of their scientific, educational, and touristic value. The inventory of the urban geoheritage of Shiraz (a big city in the Fars Province of southwest Iran) allows for the description of several in situ and ex situ geoheritage features: 1) two viewpoint geosites (sites with panoramic views of the Zagros landforms and geological formations), 2) the salt Maharloo Lake with its hydrological and geochemical peculiarities, 3) geological specimens in museum collections and museum art objects (stone carvings and statues) with rock peculiarities and abundant fossil remains, and 4) decorative natural stones (with well-visible shells of fossil invertebrates) in building facades and street benches. This urban geoheritage appears to be a useful resource for scientists, educators, and geotourists. The complexity of the Shiraz's geoheritage is determined by its combination with historical and cultural heritage, as well as by the existence of several geoheritage types and forms. The geoheritage of Shiraz can be used for diversification of the local tourism industry. It should be also considered as a component of the city's socio-ecological system and factor contributing to urban environment and streetscape perception.

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2017

Unique palaeogeographical peculiarities of sedimentary formations are important for geological he... more Unique palaeogeographical peculiarities of sedimentary formations are important for geological heritage conservation and use for the purposes of tourism. The heritage value of the Pabdeh Formation (Paleocene-Oligocene) of the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt in Iran has been investigated. The uniqueness of its palaeogeographical peculiarities has been assessed on the basis of the literature, field studies of three representative sections in the Fars Province (Kavar, Zanjiran, and Shahneshin sections), and comparison with the similar features known in Iran and globally. The Pabdeh Formation reflects the process of mixed siliciclastic-carbonate ramp progradation and the onset of a typical carbonate platform. The other unique features include representation of mesopelagic palaeohabitat, specific trace ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT fossil assemblages, prehistoric bituminous artefacts (production of which was linked to the Pabdeh deposits), etc. It is established that the palaeogeographical type of geological heritage of the Pabdeh Formation is represented by all known subtypes, namely facies, palaeoecosystem, ichnological, taphonomical, event, and geoarchaeological subtypes. Their rank varies between regional and global. The very fact of co-occurrence of these subtypes determines the global importance of the entire palaeogeographical type in the case of this formation. The establishment of geopark in the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt will facilitate adequate use of the Pabdeh Formation for the purpose of geotourism development. The aesthetic properties (rocks of different colour and striped patterns of outcrops) increase the attractiveness of this geological body to visitors.

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2017

Abstract The ideas of geological heritage and geological diversity have become very popular in th... more Abstract The ideas of geological heritage and geological diversity have become very popular in the modern science. These are usually applied to geological domains or countries, provinces, districts, etc. Additionally, it appears to be sensible to assess heritage value of geological bodies. The review of the available knowledge and the field investigation of the Gachsaran Formation (lower Miocene) in southwest Iran permit to assign its features and the relevant phenomena to as much as 10 geological heritage types, namely stratigraphical, sedimentary, palaeontological, palaeogeographical, geomorphological, hydrogeological, engineering, structural, economical, and geohistorical types. The outstanding diversity of the features of this formation determines its high heritage value and the national rank. The geological heritage of the Gachsaran Formation is important to scientists, educators, and tourists. The Papoon and Abolhaiat sections of this formation are potential geological heritage sites, although these do not represent all above-mentioned types. The large territory, where the Gachsaran Formation outcrop, has a significant geoconservation and geotourism potential, and further inventory of geosites on this territory is necessary. Similar studies of geological bodies in North Africa and the Middle East can facilitate better understanding of the geological heritage of this vast territory.

GeoResJ, 2017

This is a PDF file of an unedited manuscript that has been accepted for publication. As a service... more This is a PDF file of an unedited manuscript that has been accepted for publication. As a service to our customers we are providing this early version of the manuscript. The manuscript will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and review of the resulting proof before it is published in its final form. Please note that during the production process errors may be discovered which could affect the content, and all legal disclaimers that apply to the journal pertain. Highlights  The calcareous Mishan Formation (Neogene) is widespread in the Zagros Basin  The Mishan and Esmaeil-Abad sections are potential global geosites  Rich Miocene fossil assemblages occur in these global geosites  Sections are valuable for researchers, educators, and geotourists  A geopark might be established in Zagros New evidence of highly-complex geological heritage in Iran: Miocene sections in the Zagros Fold-Thrust Belt

Journal of African Earth Sciences, 2017

North Africa and the Middle East possess rich geological heritage, but the latter is yet to be fu... more North Africa and the Middle East possess rich geological heritage, but the latter is yet to be fully identified and described. The Oligocene carbonate platform of the Zagros Basin in southwest Iran, which corresponds to the lower part of the Asmari Formation, has significant potential for geoconservation and geotourism. The types of the geological heritage, their value, and the possible geosites have been assessed. The studied deposits are interesting because of lithology (carbonate rocks), fossils (larger foraminifera, other microfossils, diverse marine invertebrates, fish microremains, and trace fossils), biostratigraphical developments, facies (homoclinal carbonate ramp) and signature of global events (glacioeustatic fluctuations), and outstanding hydrocarbon resources. The five main geological heritage types are sedimentary, palaeontological, stratigraphical, palaeogeographical, and economical, from which the palaeontological, palaeogeographical, ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT and economical types are of global rank. The Khollar and Kavar sections in the Fars Province of Iran are recommended as geosites suitable for research, education, and tourism. The high complexity of the geological heritage linked to the Oligocene carbonate platform of the Zagros Basin implies the phenomenon of geodiversity should be understood with regard to the relationships between types and their values.

Acta Geologica Sinica - English Edition, 2021

Two stratigraphic sections (Arjooieh and Firoozabad) of the Mymand anticline located in the Inter... more Two stratigraphic sections (Arjooieh and Firoozabad) of the Mymand anticline located in the Interior Fars sub-basin of the Zagros mountains were measured and sampled in order to document sedimentological characteristics, microfacies types, and paleo-seagrasses indicators of the Oligocene succession (Asmari Fm.). Planktonic and benthic foraminifera and coralline red algae are the principal fossils from these strata. Foraminifera are represented by the following families: Soritidae, Peneroplidae, Austrotrillinidae, Alveolinidae, Planorbulinidae, Discorbidae, Lepidocyclinidae, Amphisteginidae, Rotaliidae, Nummulitidae, and Globigerinidae. Nine microfacies types were recognized, namely planktonic foraminiferal-peloidal packstone (MF1), bioclast nummulitid/Nerorotalia/Amphistegina packstone-grainstone-rudstonefloatstone(MF2), Neorotalia-echinoid coralline red algae packstone-grainstone (MF3), coral boundstone (MF4), coral/coralline red algae rudstone-floatstone-packstone-grainstone (MF5), diverse imperforate foraminifera bioclast packstone-grainstone (MF6), pelloid wackestonepackstone-grainstone (MF7), fenestrated mudstone and microbial mats (MF8), and anhydrite (MF9). MF1 indicates on outer ramp, MFs 2-4 represent middle ramp, and MFs 5-9 are interpreted as inner ramp environment. Paleo-seagrass indicators are consisting of foraminifera, hooked and tabular forms of coralline red algae, and corals. They were determined in MFs 5 and 6 reflecting the presence of vegetated environments within the middle-inner ramp setting. The Mymand anticline was dominated by the outer ramp environment at the start of the Rupelian. Middle to inner ramp environments prevailed during the Rupelian. The Chattian was correspond to the spread of inner ramp setting over the Mymand anticline.

Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transactions A: Science, 2017