Euphrates

The Euphrates is one of Western Asia's and the Middle East's two most important rivers. With a length of 1,740 miles, it is the region's longest river (2,800 kilometers). The river rises in the Armenian Highlands of Turkey at the confluence of the Kara Su (Western Euphrates) and Murat Su (Eastern Euphrates). It flows through Syria's Taurus Mountains and into Iraq, where it meets the Tigris River to form the Shatt Al-Arab River, which drains into the Persian Gulf. The Euphrates basin is thought to have been inhabited since 450,000 years ago. The riverbanks were lined with ancient cities.

Some resources have been exhausted as a result of the region's long human habitation. Several native plant and animal species, however, have survived to this day. Oaks, plum trees, and pistachio trees can be found in the river's wetland sections. Wheat, oats, and rye are grown in drier areas. The river is home to a variety of fish, including the mangar and other species. The Euphrates basin has been significantly impacted by the construction of hydroelectric power plants and irrigation schemes on the river. Fish in the river have declined due to a drop in water level and the presence of chemical pollutants in the water. Efforts have been undertaken to conserve the natural resources that remain.

Length: 1,740 miles (shared with Syria and Turkey)