Geophysical surveys to investigate the relation between the Quaternary Nile channels and the Messinian Nile canyon at East Nile Delta, Egypt

This paper compares the pattern of historical Eastern Nile Delta branches, delineated by geoelectric resistivity investigation, with the path of the Nile canyon of Messinian time revealed in seismic reflection. A close correlation is evident between the Late Quaternary Nile River channels and the Messinian canyons (wadies) in the eastern Nile Delta. This indicates that the Messinian canyons were a persistent topographic (or geomorphic) feature until historical branches. The results may also have implications for long-term patterns of subsidence in the delta area.