Nabkha Morphometry and Properties of Aeolian Sediments Around Native Plants in Kuwait

Abstract

The aeolian sediments (mobile sand and dust) trapped along native plants create a geomorphological landform, known as nabkhas. About 600 core samples from aeolian accumulations settled around 15 species of main native plants in Kuwait. Cyperus conglomeratus, Haloxylon salicornicum and Rhanterium epapposum nabkha sediment is characterized by more alkaline (pH) values, low moisture content and electrical conductivity (EC). The later plants contain short branches spacing and are at close distances from the nearby nabkhas. The Astragalus sp. nabkhas mean grain sizes are considered the finest and contain considerable carbonate percentages as it grows in playa and alluvial fan deposits. Citrulus sp. nabkhas are characterized by the lowest pH, EC, and moisture content but the highest content of carbonate in comparison to other native plants. Lycium sp. has the longest distance between branches and to the equivalent nearby species. The maximum aeolian accumulation volume was noted around Nitraria retusa, Lycium shawii, Haloxylon salicornicum and Calligonum polygonoides up to 21.9, 15.5, 14.5, and 13.3 m3, respectively, which spot them as the most effective solutions for future applications in controlling aeolian activities in the region. This study aimed to assess the sediment properties around native plants and detect the most efficient plants in controlling aeolian activities in Kuwait.