Prediction of new polymetallic mineralization prospectivity zones using a combination of remote sensing, geology, and geochemistry data in the northeastern part of the Saghro inlier, Moroccan Anti-Atlas belt

In the Anti-Atlas belt, the Saghro massif stands out as the most promising area for exploring bases and precious metals. It serves as a noteworthy example of effectively utilizing various geological layers by employing fuzzy logic operators to predict new targets and identify potential mining zones in this region. This paper demonstrates the integration of geoscience datasets in a GIS system, enabling the identification of significant targets for mineral exploration. The geo-information layers utilized included Neoproterozoic acid volcanic and intrusive rocks, hydrothermal alterations, faults, zones of structural complexity, geochemical anomalies, and mineral occurrences. The results highlighted that the boundary between the Neoproterozoic basement and its Paleozoic cover presents a crucial target for discovering mineral deposits and identifying new polymetallic mineralization zones with significant mining potential. Eight favorable zones have been identified, indicating the presence of Cu–Ag–Pb polymetallic mineralization and Ag–Hg mineralization associated with the late Neoproterozoic acid volcanic rocks of the Ouarzazate group. The outcomes of this study are invaluable for mineral exploration, serving as essential guidance for mining prospectors and advanced metallogenic investigation programs in the northeastern part of the Moroccan Saghro massif.