Die Unterschiede in den Sedimentationsvorgängen zwischen dem Autunien und Saxonien von Mittel- und Westeuropa

After a comment on the stratigraphical classification and the subdivision of Permian strata, a review on their occurrences in Central and Western Europe including the Alps is given. Within this area, the strata can be summarized to a northern, a central, and a “Verrucano” province. The Autunian (Lower Rotliegend) has been typically developed in the central province where it is best preserved. It is characterized by many different sedimentation processes the most important of which are described. They lead to the conclusion that the sediment deposition mainly took place in fresh water lakes and through fluviatile transport. On the other hand, the deposition of the Saxonian (Upper Rotliegend) took place in a much drier climate. Finally, the differences between the two types of climate are described.     

A study on the bio-hydro mechanical effects of the tree roots on the Agaclı coal reclaimed – forested land

The research area that is in the north of Istanbul (Turkey) and it is a land of open pit coal mining residuals reclaimed and turned to forest in 1988–1989. The materials that are open pit mine spoils are formed by sandy loam, sandy clay loam, heavy loam and clay (noncalcareous Pliocene I sediments). Pseudoacacia (Robinia pseudoacacia), Maritima Pine (Pinus pinaster) and Stone Pine (Pinus pinea) are planted on these materials. The aims of this research were to determine the strength of the material provided by tree roots and evaluate the performance of the forestation practices at lands especially where open pit coal mining spoil (residual) materials piled up. The research has been performed at two stages. The first one was hydro-mechanical effect concerned about material moisture depletion as a result of transpiration and the second one was bio-mechanical effects due to strength parameters of the roots and their growth pattern within the material. All results were evaluated in relation to tensile strength and displacement curves due to pre and post failure behaviors of materials and root systems. The results showed the increase of the displacement of the material was the significant indicator of the bio-mechanics tensile strength of the material provided by the tree roots. The fast growing type of tree roots have stabilized the material up to a depth for 80–100 cm by covering the coal residual materials within 12 years.     

Tourism resources and their development in Maldive Islands

Maldive Islands are characterized by a unique coral nature and thus they posses unique tourism resources though in a one-sided way, namely in the submarine and littoral environment of the islands, lagoons and reefs, associated with the year-round tropical climate. Therefore, not only divers and snorklers enjoy the profuse underwater resources, but also beach tourists are attracted by the nature of the beaches and the climatic conditions as well. This environment really guarantees relaxation and recreation. Tourism in Maldives which was introduced in 1972 only, has successfully developed so far. Proof is given by the rapidly growing number of tourists and tourist resorts (islands) over the past 10 year period. On the European market, Maldives today rank among the most attractive tourist destinations in the tropics. Maldives offer large natural resources for tourism to be further developed in the future. The sensitive environment does however call for most considerate measures.