Fluvio-Karstic Development of the Masiro Canyon (Pervari) and Geomorphic Features of Its Surroundings

Abstract

Masiro Canyon is a fluvio-karstic valley located in the Bitlis-Zagros Suture Zone, which is the largest thrust structure in Anatolia, in the east of the Pervari District of Siirt Province. This canyon is located in the upper basin of the Dicle River in the subbasin of the Sinebel Creek and Botan River. The Sinebel Creek valley network built on Neogene deposits was exposed to anticlinal uplift between Korkandil Mountain and Gulle Hill. The stream responded to this rise by being buried in the topography and developed a narrow-deep canyon structure. Therefore, in addition to the antecedent character, epigenetic features are also observed in the canyon. The canyon has a polygenic character because karstification, fluvial processes, and tectonism have a common effect in the development of the canyon valley. In and around the canyon, which is an example of tectonically controlled karstification in the folded karst zone belt, in addition to the karst topography, fluvial shapes and mass movements are also encountered. The study area, which has a rich geomorphic landscape, has a rugged topographic structure. In this study, the morphogenetic evolution of the Masiro Canyon and geomorphic characteristics of its immediate surroundings are clarified. For this purpose, field studies were conducted, literature was reviewed, and maps and figures related to the area were produced in a geographical information system environment using a 12.5-m-resolution digital elevation model.