South Iran Nubo-Sindian desert and semi-desert

The ecoregion stretches for 1,600 kilometres (990 mi) along the northern coast of the Persian Gulf, from the head of the Gulf at Abadan to the estuary of the Hingol River on the southern coast of Pakistan 150 km west of Karachi. For most of its length, the region reaches 120 km inland, but widen considerably east of the Strait of Hormuz. As it enters Pakistan the ecoregion lies on the Makran Coastal Range of mountains. Elevations range from sea level to {[convert|3283|m|ft}, with a mean of 559 metres (1,834 ft).[3]

The climate of the ecoregion is Hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification (BWk)). This climate features stable air and high pressure aloft, producing a hot, arid desert. Hot-month temperatures typically average 29–35 °C (84–95 °F).[4][5]

At the north end of the Gulf is the Shadegan Ponds on the delta of the Karun River. This internationally important wetland features brackish sedge marshes dominated by Bulrush (Scirpus) in the better drained areas, and Tamarix on the mudflats.[6][7] Farther south along the coast is a representative mangrove community at the deltas of the Rud-e-Gaz and Rud-e-Hara Rivers at Hormuz. This area features tidal creeks, mudflats, and mangrove swamp. At the mouths of the rivers are extensive stands of Grey mangrove (Avicennia marina), known locally as the Hara tree.

Mangrove forests at Qeshm

Most of the region (up to 90%), however, is hot sandy desert with sparse vegetation. 8% is herbaceous cover or converted to agriculture.

The region is important for reptiles and amphibians. Common species are the Iranian toad (Bufotes surdus), The Baluch ground iguana (Trapelus persicus), the Iranian short-fingered gecko (Stenodactylus affinis), the Ocellated skink (Chalcides ocellatus), Rock semaphore gecko (Pristurus rupestris), and the False cobra (Rhagerhis moilensis).[3][8]

Endemic species of reptiles and amphibians include Blanford's short-toed gecko (Cyrtopodion brevipes), the Jaz murian bent-toed gecko (Mediodactylus sagittifer), the Iranian worm snake (Xerotyphlops wilsoni), and the Bungarus persicus, a venomous snake of the Elapidae family.[8]

Over 7% of the ecoregion is officially protected.[3] These protected areas include:

• Shadegan Ponds Wildlife Refuge (Iran).
• Geno Biosphere Reserve (Iran).
• Mangrove forests of Qeshm (Iran).
• Hingol National Park (Pakistan).
• Mond protected area (Iran).