The Effect of Quarry Dust (Crusher) on the Quantitative Characteristics of Vegetation in Gaugas Area, Al-Khoms-Libya

Eissa M. Alakhdar, Suliman O. Alhuweemdi, Ali M. Alhadar, Anwer M. Alhadar

Abstract: This study investigates the adverse effects of quarry (crusher) dust on the characteristics of quantitative vegetation in Gaugas region to the south of Al-Khoms. The study is conducted on the direction of prevailing winds in the region. The results illustrate the negative effects of quarry dust on the densities, abundances and frequencies of vegetation that increases the pressures on plant vegetation, living organisms and desertification expansion. Moreover, the results showed apparent negative effects on the Shannon biodiversity index. The results also demonstrate greater dominance of plants enduring difficult environmental conditions in locations near quarry.

Keywords: Pollution, Dust, Vegetation, Crushing, Quarrying, Diversity, Gaugas, Libya