Page 279 - 7. State Of Environment Report Of Türkiye

In the studies carried out within the scope of the project, samples were taken from the falling
blocks as a result of tipping/falling mass movements that occurred in existing concrete traver-
tine pools, natural pool sedimentation environment outer walls and waterfall type travertine
environments and the results of the analyses performed in the laboratory environment were
recorded. In the field, physical and mechanical properties of travertines were determined by
using appropriate equipment without damaging their natural formations, and a model desig-
ned in accordance with the natural structure of the region in accordance with the results of the
analyses was tested on site. In order to determine the causes of colour changes in travertines
and to contribute to solution proposals, physical-chemical and biological samples were collec-
ted from 10 points and hydrobiological and microbiological analyses were carried out.

F.3.1.10. Ihlara Special Environmental Protection Area

The Ihlara Special Environmental Protection Area is a region rich in biological diversity. Research
conducted in the Ihlara Valley has identified 364 taxa comprising 54 families and 218 species.
The fact that the valley interior is not subject to intensive grazing and has abundant shaded
areas has ensured a high number of species. The fact that 43 of these species are endemic plant
species clearly demonstrates the importance of the region’s natural vegetation cover. In additi-
on, the region is rich in hot thermal water sources and historical remains.

According to the results of observations and research, 35 bird species belonging to 21 families
have been identified in the region. Eleven of these birds breed in the region. Furthermore, four
fish species have been identified in the Melendiz River, the region’s most important watercour-
se. The species of economic value and most frequently caught is the freshwater chub (Leuciscus
Cephalus), locally known as Pullu.

F.3.1.11. Köyceğiz- Dalyan Special Environmental Protection Area

Iztuzu beach area in the region is one of the most important breeding areas of sea turtles (Caret-
ta Caretta and Chelonia Mydas) and Nile Softshell Turtle (Trionyx Triunguis) in the Mediterrane-
an. The area is also the breeding and living area of the Otter species (Lutra Lutra). 126 bird species
and 282 marine fauna and flora species have been identified in the region.

The most common vegetation in the Köyceğiz Special Environmental Protection Area consists
of red pine and sweet gum forests, shrubs and shrubs belonging to maquis and frigana, and her-
baceous plants growing in the wetlands and barren marshes around Köyceğiz Lake.

The lake surroundings, canals and forests have a rich potential as a breeding and sheltering place
for various animals. Wild goose, white stork, Izmir kingfisher, swallow, marsh warbler, gull-billed
tern, short-toed eagle, bee-eater, seagull, glossy ibis, little egret and various other bird species
use the region as wintering and incubation areas.

F.3.1.12. Salt Lake Special Environmental Protection Area

The lake is the second largest lake in Türkiye and the second saltiest lake in the world. It is on the
Tentative List of World Natural Heritage Sites.

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