Senegal-Mauritanian Basin

region, Africa

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July 13, 2026

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The Senegal-Mauritanian Basin is a geological depression located in western Africa, primarily encompassing Senegal and Mauritania. This region is characterized by its flat terrain, with elevations generally not exceeding 330 feet (100 meters), except for the Cape Verde Peninsula and southeastern areas. The basin's landscape is shaped by arid conditions, featuring skeletal soils, pebble-strewn plains known as regs, and extensive dune systems.12

Economically, the region is diverse. Mauritania, within this basin, has a traditional subsistence economy alongside a developing export sector based on iron ore, copper, and rich fishing grounds. Senegal also benefits from its fishing waters and has significant natural gas discoveries along its maritime border with Mauritania. The Senegal River, forming a border between the two countries, is crucial for agriculture, with seasonal and irrigated farming practiced in its valley.3456

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…the depression known as the Senegal-Mauritanian Basin. Elevations of more than about 330 feet (100 metres) are found only on the Cape Verde Peninsula and in the southeast of the country. The country as a whole falls into three structural divisions: the Cape Verde headland, which forms the western extremity…
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…the depression known as the Senegal-Mauritanian Basin. Elevations of more than about 330 feet (100 metres) are found only on the Cape Verde Peninsula and in the southeast of the country. The country as a whole falls into three structural divisions: the Cape Verde headland, which forms the western extremity…
Read More