Spatial variation of Watermelon and cantaloupein the Middle Euphrates governorates for the period 2013-2022

Abstract

This research aims to examine the spatial variation of watermelon and melon crops in the Middle Euphrates governorates for the period (2013–2022), through analyzing changes in cultivated area, production, and productivity, as well as identifying the geographical distribution of the two crops at the level of administrative units for the year 2022. The study relied on statistical data issued by the Central Statistical Organization and the agricultural directorates in the governorates, in addition to the use of quantitative methods and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to illustrate spatial distribution patterns.

The results of the study revealed a clear spatial and temporal variation in the cultivation of watermelon and melon crops, where the highest cultivated areas and production were concentrated in a limited number of administrative units, mainly Al-Madhatiya sub-district, the center of Al-Hamza district, and Nafar sub-district, while cultivation decreased or was absent in other administrative units. The findings also showed that changes in cultivated area had a direct impact on production levels, with clear influence from natural and human factors, most notably water availability, soil fertility, level of agricultural expertise, and production costs.

The study concludes that the spatial variation in the cultivation of both crops reflects the lack of homogeneity in the natural and economic characteristics among the administrative units of the study area. This necessitates the adoption of more efficient agricultural policies to reduce spatial disparities and improve agricultural production.