Structural development of the Korek and Pirat anticlines, Iraqi Kurdistan Region. A tectonic-geomorphological study

Abstract

The Korek and Pirat mountains are two outstanding geomorphic features in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR), forming two anticlines. The two anticlines are separated by the Gulley Ali Beg stream. Both anticlines form right-hand en-echelon plunging as the Korek anticlines is concerned. The oldest exposed rocks in the core of both anticlines belong to the Lower Jurassic formations, whereas the Bekhme formation forms the bulk of both anticlines. The Korek anticline includes three domes and its southeastern plunge forms left-hand en-echelon plunge with the Ranya anticline. Whereas, the Pirat anticline includes two long domes with very faint indication. We have interpreted satellite images to indicate different geomorphological forms which are good indication for the lateral growth of the anticlines. Moreover, we have measured different geomorphological and structural aspects; accordingly, we have determined that both anticlines are Detachment Folds.