A Master's thesis in the Department of Ecology at the College of Science at the University of Basra examined the environmental survey of terrestrial plants in the Qurna District, north of Basra, and the use of some of these plants as indicators of petroleum hydrocarbons.
The thesis, presented by student Nour Amer Ismail, aimed to conduct a comprehensive environmental survey of terrestrial plants in the Qurna District.
It included a study of the environmental factors affecting them and an assessment of some vegetation characteristics for use as a bioindicator of petroleum hydrocarbon accumulation.
The thesis concluded: "The terrestrial vegetation is suffering from significant deterioration, and the soils of the study areas are characterized by high salinity and the impact of petroleum hydrocarbons on plant growth and development."
The thesis recommended attention to terrestrial vegetation, control of overgrazing, and increased environmental awareness.
