Geoconservation and Geotourism Potential of Vulnerable Rudist Fossil Geosites from SE Anatolia (Turkey)

This study aims to reveal existing geosites in vulnerable rudist fossil areas in SE Turkey through an assessment of geoconservation, geotourism, and geoeducation. Two paleobiogeographically diverse areas located within the extent of the SE Turkey Carbonate Platform were selected as study sites: the Alidamı–Kahta, Adıyaman District, and the Yayladağı-Hatay District. We highlight the importance of the rudists in the geological record by pointing out the outstanding Upper Cretaceous outcrops in these localities. This study is based on features consisting of field observations, mapping, and measured stratigraphic sections, both geological and folk cultural. The methodology of this study includes scientific, geoheritage, geoconservation and geotourism characterization, and assessment of the selected areas. We highlight the proposal to consider this unique geoconservation as geoheritage, as well as geotourism and geoeducational potential. The composition of beneficial elements with different characteristics (e.g., geological, archeological, ethnographic, and socio-historical backgrounds) could allow sustainable management and local development plans.