Zagros Mountains Forest Steppe

Quick Facts

• Type: Ecoregion
• Vegetation: Oak woodlands and steppe
• Range: Zagros Mountains
• Countries: Iran, Iraq, and Turkey

Overview

The Zagros Mountains Forest Steppe is an ecoregion characterized by oak woodlands, scrub, and steppe landscapes across the Zagros range. These forests form the ecological backbone of many Kurdish areas in Iran and Iraq.

The region’s climate and elevation support a mosaic of habitats, with springs and seasonal streams feeding valleys and foothills.

Landscape and Culture

Oak forests are deeply tied to rural livelihoods, providing grazing, fuel, and traditional land use practices. The woodlands also shape the visual identity of Kurdistan’s mountain landscapes.

Notes

The ecoregion is part of the broader Irano-Anatolian biodiversity zone.