SHARJAH: In a significant breakthrough for environmental research, the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) in Sharjah has recorded three plant species in the UAE for the first time. The discovery, made by researchers from the Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium, highlights the emirate’s leadership in biodiversity conservation.
The newly recorded species include Dactyloctenium australe (Durban Crowfoot Grass) and two new varieties of Neurada procumbens—var. stellata and var. al-eisawii.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA Chairperson, praised the milestone, stating it reflects the authority’s commitment to scientific research and environmental sustainability. “This achievement underscores our dedication to preserving Sharjah’s plant biodiversity for future generations,” she said.
The discovery was made possible through advanced research techniques, with EPAA’s field team conducting regular expeditions to study and document wild plant species. Al Suwaidi highlighted how these species could provide new insights into desert ecosystems and further strengthen Sharjah’s role in environmental science.
She also commended the Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium team for their ongoing research efforts, which contribute to both local and global botanical studies. The initiative not only documents rare native plants but also promotes international research collaboration.
The Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium, launched in 2018 in Al Dhaid, is dedicated to preserving rare wild and desert plants. It plays a crucial role in maintaining a biodiversity database and updating global plant registries. Through its work, the initiative continues to enhance conservation efforts, ensuring the sustainability of the UAE’s rich plant heritage.
