https://arab.news/jbq58
- First discovery of a Maerua crassifolia tree, known as the sarh tree, at the reserve
- Sarh tree is native to Africa and grows in the wild throughout the Middle East
RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority recently announced the first discovery of a Maerua crassifolia tree, known as the sarh tree, at the reserve.
The discovery occurred during field surveys by experts from the reserve to identify and protect rare plant species while promoting the sustainability of natural habitats.
The sarh tree is part of the Capparaceae family and grows up to 10 meters tall, with a stunted, twisted bole about 25 centimeters in diameter.
The sarh tree is native to Africa and grows in the wild throughout the Middle East, including the Arabian Peninsula and desert areas of the Levant.
It is threatened by land overuse and overgrazing, although it plays an essential role in stabilizing the ecosystem by enhancing vegetation cover, supporting wildlife, and maintaining ecological balance in dry regions such as the kingdom鈥檚 harsh climate.
鈥淭he sarh plant was once widespread in the Najd region, but its numbers have declined significantly due to excessive woodcutting, as its wood was highly sought after for its hardness and quality,鈥� said Abdullah Alowaifeer, director general of environment and sustainability at King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority.
Alowaifeer added: 鈥淲e thought it had gone extinct in the reserve, but thankfully, we recently managed to discover a single tree.
鈥淭he importance of the sarh lies in being a wild tree that can withstand harsh conditions. It also serves as a natural carbon store and an important refuge for birds and wildlife.鈥�
According to the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority, the tree was found in the Wadi Al-Shawki area.
Mahir Al-Qathami, CEO of the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority, described the discovery of the tree as a 鈥渟uccess鈥� of the scientific efforts by the authority to study and document the natural environment, SPA reported.
He further said that continuous field surveys are essential for monitoring rare species and for developing strategies to protect and sustain them.
In addition, the royal reserve started implementing a protection plan right after the recent discovery, including fencing the site, conducting regular monitoring, installing an informational sign about the tree鈥檚 environmental importance, and collecting seeds to increase the plant鈥檚 numbers in other locations in the reserve.
鈥淲e are currently working on rehabilitating this plant species by establishing a dedicated nursery, collecting seeds and growing seedlings in preparation for replanting them in their natural habitats, with the goal of reviving the species and enhancing biodiversity in the reserve,鈥� Alowaifeer said.