University of Benghazi Earth Sciences Team Conducts Field Study at Jabal Zaltan with Professor Martin Pickford
The Department of Earth Sciences at the Faculty of Science, University of Benghazi, conducted a specialised geological and palaeontological field study at Jabal Zaltan (Gebel Zelten) as part of the academic visit of Professor Martin Pickford, Honorary Associate at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris and a specialist in palaeontology, palaeogeology, and biogeography.
Geological and Palaeontological Field Research at Jabal Zaltan
The scientific team included Professor Ahmed Al-Kawafi, Dr Miftah Al-Shuwaihdi, and Dr Mohammed Al Riaydh, alongside Abdullah Al-Tarhouni of the Sirte Oil Company for Production and Manufacturing of Oil and Gas. The fieldwork provided an opportunity for scientific exchange and collaboration in geological and palaeontological studies.
Studying Jabal Zaltan’s Fossil Record and Ancient Biodiversity
The trip focused on specialised field studies of geological and fossil-bearing outcrops, the exploration of sites of scientific significance, and the collection of samples to support research into the geological and palaeontological history of Jabal Zaltan. The work contributes to ongoing efforts to document Libya’s geological diversity and ancient biodiversity.
Previous collaborative research involving University of Benghazi researchers has also contributed to the scientific study of fossil material from Gebel Zelten, the name commonly used for Jabal Zaltan in international scientific literature.
Supporting Future Scientific Research and International Publication
The Sirte Oil Company for Production and Manufacturing of Oil and Gas hosted and supported the field trip, reflecting cooperation between the University of Benghazi and national institutions to combine expertise and resources to advance scientific research and specialised field studies.
The findings are expected to provide a foundation for specialised research papers intended for publication in peer-reviewed international journals, expanding the University of Benghazi’s research output and bringing greater international attention to the scientific significance of Libya’s geological and fossil sites.
