Mapping palaeolakes in the Ténéré Desert of northeastern Niger using space-borne data for groundwater potential

摘要: Abstract Groundwater resources in arid lands are crucial for supporting life. Thus, delineation of low land areas, where surface runoff accumulated during pluvial periods assists groundwater explorations. Therefore, the drainage patterns northeastern Niger using various sources DEMs optical (ASTER) and radar (SRTM) satellite data were extracted. These reveal three palaeolakes Tenere Desert. In addition, together with used to define a major watershed measuring 634,000 km2. This may have led formation one palaeolake as an ancestor palaeolakes. The latter extend 11,514 km2, 17,571 km2 18,453 km2. satellites images show that boundaries these lakes been modified by extensive longitudinal transverse sand dunes considerable thickness. much later episode geologic time, probably late Quaternary. Prior that, former marshlands received water from Tibesti Mountains northern Chad, Ahaggar Plateau southeastern Algeria Air Mountain Niger. clearly pathway down ground level. longest line is emanating extends south west 837 km. overflow southernmost lake another distinct line, leading southwestern edge ancestral Megalake Chad. begins vicinity town Fachi southward through Dillia single tributary, here named Palaeoriver. observations, which based on study require geophysical fieldwork ascertain interpretations, evaluate potential accumulation region.