Mangrove trees in Barka: Fertile ecosystem for marine life, migratory birds

Times of Oman

a day ago

Barka: Khor Al Sawadi in the Wilayat of Barka, South Al Batinah Governorate, is renowned for its mangrove forests, locally known as "Qurm" trees, which represent one of the most biodiverse coastal ecosystems in Oman.
These trees create a thriving habitat that supports various marine organisms, including crustaceans and mollusks, while also serving as a crucial stopover for migratory birds due to their location along a global migration route.
Eng. Salim Said Al Maskari, Director of the Environment Department in South Al Batinah, stated that the Environment Authority is exerting continuous efforts to protect these trees, which face global threats due to climate change. He noted that since the early 2000s, the authority has implemented a national program to rehabilitate mangrove ecosystems across Oman, with Khor Al Sawadi being a key focus area.
These efforts have led to a significant natural expansion and growth of mangrove trees along the khors waterways, enhancing and protecting the local ecosystem. The Environment Authority continues to monitor the khors ecological status through regular programs to ensure the sustainability of this vital habitat.
The rehabilitation campaign, launched in March 2001 and continued until January 2007, involved technical surveys followed by the planting of mangrove saplings. During this period, approximately 100,350 saplings were planted, covering an estimated 88.3 hectares of the khors total area of 232 hectares. This initiative has significantly contributed to restoring and preserving this critical coastal ecosystem.