The Mesopotamian Marshes lie where the Tigris and the Euphrates approach the Persian Gulf. For thousands of years the Marsh Arabs have lived there in houses made of reeds, travelling between villages in narrow boats and raising water buffalo. In the 1990s much of the wetland was drained, and many people left. After 2003 some dykes were opened and water returned, and today part of the original area has recovered. Scientists say that the marshes are important for migrating birds and for local fish, but they remain at risk because upstream dams and drought reduce the flow of water.

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. They are recovering but are not fully safe.

  1. Step 1: Part of the area has recovered and risks remain, so recovery is partial.
Answer
They are recovering but are not fully safe.
Why not the others: They are in a better state than before the 1990s., They have no value for wildlife. and They no longer need water from the rivers. do not fit.

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