UAE | Environment
Lost mangrove species flowers again in UAE
After being extinct for 100 years, the mangrove species rhizophora mucronata is once again growing successfully in UAE waters
- Staff Report
- Published: 23:46 August 13, 2008
- Image Credit: Supplied Picture
- Patches of green rhizophora mucronata can be seen once again along the UAE's coastal waters.
Abu Dhabi: After being extinct for 100 years, the mangrove species Rhizophora mucronata is once again growing successfully in UAE waters.
The plants are surviving in the natural environment and have begun flowering.
Historical records show the species probably became extinct due to over-exploitation.
Rhizophora mucronata seeds were procured from Pakistan with the aim of initiating a comprehensive research and development programme to reintroduce the species to the UAE.
Appropriate nursery and plantation techniques at Ras Ghanada islands and other locations were developed.
"The Arabian Gulf has a strong historical link with Al Qurm (mangroves). They are unique and precious ecosystems in the UAE," Mubarak Sa'ad Al Ahbabi, director in the Department of the President's Affairs, said.
Al Ahbabi said the department and the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, initiated the Mangrove Ecosystem Research and Development Project to reintroduce the rhizophora mucronata to the UAE.
Today, this lost natural heritage mangrove species of the UAE is once again growing vigorously in its coastal waters.
The species has completely adapted to the natural environment, withstanding high salinity in seawater and high temperatures. Rows of eye catching green plantations of rhizophora mucronata are an attractive scene at Ras Ghanada Island.
Many plants began flowering after four years. It is expected that plenty of the first generation's seed will be available for new plantations. This seed will be genetically more adaptable to local conditions.
More from UAE Environment
More from UAE
Latest news
- Youngsters dance and raise cash for charity
- Dubai departments upgrade services
- Get yourself a free test for diabetes
- Ensuring a safety net for intellectual property
- Reader's issue addressed
- 5,552 illegals held in Dubai this year
- Man cleared because he took drugs in France
- Man charged with trafficking women
- Auditors to probe Mizin graft case
- Breaking down cultural barriers with photographs
- Abu Dhabi Crown Prince visits Islamic centre
- Police's secret source scheme reaps rewards
- Transfusion centre launches new toll free number
- Mirror, mirror show me the way
- Smart e-Gate system launched
Community Reports
-
Mirror, mirror show me the way
Driver on Salam Street had so many boxes and fruits piled into car, he would not be able to view rear or right side mirrors
-
Parents should be more vigilant
Reader's picture highlights risk of negligence by caretakers
-
Warming up to ‘Mobilise the Earth' theme
Dubai school dedicates a whole week to celebrating Earth Day with can-collection drives, sapling plantation and painting competition among others
-
Drivers using mobiles put others' lives at risk
Speeding is dangerous for the driver and other motorists
