Impact of the Ain Taoujdate Flexure on the Morphology of the Mikkes River Valley in the Saïs Basin (Sebou Basin, Morocco)

Laboratory of Geoenvironmental Analyses, Planning and Sustainable Development FLSH-Sais, Fez, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

The Oued Mikkès is a left-bank tributary of the Oued Sebou, located in the Prerif region. Its watershed extends across three distinct morpho-structural units, from south to north: the western edge of the Middle Atlas plateau in the upstream section, the Saïs basin in the central part, and the Pre-Rif ridges and the Prerif in the downstream section. The central part of the basin, corresponding to the Saïs plain, is significantly influenced by active tectonics, mainly related to the Ain Taoujdate flexure. This major geological structure, with a general WNW-ESE orientation, crosses the basin and plays a key role in shaping both the hydrographic network and sedimentary deposits. The middle reach of the Oued Mikkès valley exhibits a complex morphology, directly linked to ongoing tectonic movements. These tectonic disturbances affect the riverbed slope, channel alignment, and the processes of erosion and sedimentation. Moreover, the interaction between active tectonics and regional climatic conditions contributes to shaping the current fluvial landscape. This study aims to examine the impact of the Ain Taoujdate flexure on the morphology of the middle reach of the Oued Mikkès valley, by highlighting the geomorphological and hydrological dynamics at work.