Latest news with #Prosopiscineraria
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Gulf Today
Mleiha National Park records over 100 species of flora, fauna
Mleiha National Park has conducted an ecological assessment, recording the presence of 100+ distinct species within its protected desert landscape. These include 20+ bird species, 10+ reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 insect and arachnid species, and 20+ native plant species solidifying Mleiha's position as one of the most ecologically rich and diverse environments in the Arabian Peninsula. Mleiha National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development. Mleiha National Park Ecological engineers of the desert With 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor sand dunes and provide seasonal fodder for herbivores. Mammals, reptiles and birds The fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii). The biodiversity of Mleiha National Park is a natural capital that drives tourism. Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal stopover. Insects and arachnids With 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. The fauna of Mleiha includes over 11 species of mammals, including the Arabian Red Fox. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological balance. Public engagement and education Visitors to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals. Biodiversity as a growth asset 'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.' Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
Al Etihad
6 days ago
- Science
- Al Etihad
Mleiha Park records 100+ species of flora, fauna in its habitat
4 June 2025 19:43 SHARJAH (WAM) Mleiha National Park has conducted an ecological assessment, recording the presence of over 100 distinct species within its protected desert landscape. These include more than 20 bird species, over 10 reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 insect and arachnid species, and 20+ native plant species solidifying Mleiha's position as one of the most ecologically rich and diverse environments in the Arabian National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by the Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor dunes and provide seasonal fodder for fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii).Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals.'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, of Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.' Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
CairoScene
30-01-2025
- Science
- CairoScene
This ‘Tree of Life' Has Survived in the Bahraini Desert for 400 Years
This 'Tree of Life' Has Survived in the Bahraini Desert for 400 Years How does Bahrain's Tree of Life survive in the desert? How does it thrive in such an inhospitable environment? Theories and legends abound. Beyond the purlieus of Bahrain's developed north, amidst a landscape of undulating golden dunes and the stark machinery of oil fields, there stands a solitary sentinel, with a secret as old as time. It is a tree, a Prosopis cineraria—that is, locally known as Shajarat-al-Hayah, the Tree of Life. This seemingly ordinary tree, reaching a height of 9.75 meters, possesses an extraordinary secret, a mystery that has captivated scientists, historians, and mystics for generations. How does it survive? How is it allowed to thrive in such an inhospitable environment, a place where rain is a rare and precious gift? The tree's age adds another layer to its mystique. Estimates place it at over 400 years old, perhaps even closer to 500. To think of the world it has witnessed, the shifting sands of time swirling around its roots. It predates the modern state of Bahrain by several hundred years. Its presence is a stark contrast to the barren landscape, a vibrant splash of green against a canvas of ochre and gold. Standing on a small sandy hill, a solitary figure against the vast desert sky, the Tree of Life in a realm of apparent lifelessness. The very species of the tree, Prosopis cineraria, is known for its resilience. This hardy species, native to Western Asia and the Indian Subcontinent, is adapted to withstand extreme temperatures and prolonged periods of drought, sometimes enduring up to eight months without water. Its deep root system, capable of extending up to 50 meters into the earth, is one of the most plausible explanations for its survival. These roots, like subterranean tentacles, may reach deep into the earth, tapping into hidden sources of water far below the surface. But even this explanation feels insufficient when confronted with the sheer desolation of the surrounding terrain. The tree stands in a place where one would expect to find nothing but sand and rock. The nearest town, Al Dur, is a 15-minute drive away, and the surrounding landscape, punctuated by oil rigs and pipelines, seems hardly a place where nature's delicate balance can be left to grow. And yet, this tree persists. Various theories attempt to unravel the mystery. Some suggest the tree extracts moisture directly from the sand grains, a feat that seems almost thaumaturgical. Others point to the possibility of an underground stream, a hidden river flowing beneath the desert floor, providing the tree with a constant source of sustenance. Scientific studies have explored the possibility of a subterranean water source three kilometers away, while others have explored the possibility of humidity from the sea breeze, over 13 kilometers away, or even the relatively high groundwater table, only ten meters below the surface. A more recent theory proposes that the tree's survival is linked to a symbiotic relationship with fungi in the soil, a microscopic network providing the tree with the essential water it needs. Beyond the scientific explanations, there lies a realm of folklore and mysticism. Local legends tell a different story, one where the tree possesses a sacred nature. Some even claim it stands in the biblical Garden of Eden. Others believe it is protected by Enki, an ancient Sumerian god of water and wisdom. These stories, passed down through generations, imbue the tree with an aura of the divine, transforming it from a mere botanical specimen into a sacred symbol. The discovery of 500-year-old pottery and artefacts near the tree adds another coating of historical intrigue, suggesting the area may have once been a place of significance, perhaps even a military outpost, centuries ago. It's impossible to evade the myriad symbolisms of the Tree of Life. In terms of resilience, it exemplifies the power of life to endure even in the most challenging conditions. As a symbol of hope, it can be a reminder that even in the most barren landscapes, life can find a way. Today, the tree receives tens of thousands of visitors every year. They come to witness this marvel of nature, to stand in its presence and contemplate its enduring mystery. They come seeking answers, inspiration, and connection with something larger than themselves.
