Extraordinary Geodiversity and Geoheritage Value of Erosional Craters of the Negev Craterland

摘要: The Negev desert features numerous unique geologic phenomena, the most prominent being crater-like valleys which have formed in a complex erosional process. These craters expose large variety of ancient rocks and phenomena that reveal details rich history. conditions within provide shelter for endemic vegetation animals influenced development region’s cultures human heritage. well-preserved thoroughly studied great example geodiversity geoheritage values encompassed such rare features. Worldwide acknowledgment their importance has brought to acceptance Hebrew term crater, makhtesh (literally mortar), as universal craters. In recent years, increasing geotourism environmental-education activities local communities upon coalition scientists, tour guides, residents, stakeholders support establishment geopark Craterland. work presented here is synthesis current knowledge new advancements study value. particular, we propose revised definition “makhtesh” better represent different types while acknowledging common make these structures so geodiversity. We chose Makhtesh Ramon, largest crater Negev, demonstrate potential value worldwide. Finally, developed method systematically assess compare scenic various morphologic hope grading scale key structural, scenic, cultural aspects may lay foundation future economic, ecologic, touristic assessments landscapes environments.