#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #biodiversity #Mohammed bin Salman #species discovery

Groundbreaking Discovery in Biodiversity

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve recently announced the identification of five species new to global science, sparking excitement within the conservation community. This includes two reptiles—a gecko (Hemidactylus sp.) with distinctive brown stripes and an eye-catching white pattern, and the Hejaz black-collared snake (Rhynchocalamus hejazicus). In addition, three new plant species were discovered: a globe thistle, a mignonette, and a hogbean, highlighting the rich biodiversity present within the reserve.

These discoveries are the result of four years of extensive fieldwork conducted by a coalition of Saudi and international scientists. Their concerted efforts have expanded the total number of documented terrestrial species in the reserve to an impressive 791. Despite covering only 1% of the Kingdom's total terrestrial area, this reserve is home to more than half of Saudi Arabia's terrestrial species, underscoring its critical role in supporting biodiversity amidst the challenges of climate change.

A Closer Look at the New Species

The new gecko, Hemidactylus sp., is currently undergoing DNA analysis. This remarkable species features striking horizontal brown stripes coupled with white nodules, and plays a crucial role in pest control, preying on small insects like mosquitoes, thereby maintaining ecological balance in desert habitats. Meanwhile, the Hejaz black-collared snake is a small, non-venomous reptile characterized by its vibrant red color adorned with a distinguishing black collar.

Among the newly identified plant species, the globe thistle (Echinops sp. aff. glaberrimus), part of the Asteraceae family, is notable not only for its vibrant blooms that attract pollinators but also for its historical medicinal uses in treating infections and inflammations. The mignonette (Reseda sp. aff. muricata) is recognized for its herbal properties and is often brewed in teas or utilized in perfumery. Lastly, the hogbean (Hyoscyamus sp.) has a complex history with roles ranging from medicinal applications to containing toxic characteristics used in early anesthesiology practices.

Ongoing Conservation Efforts

Andrew Zaloumis, CEO of the reserve, articulated the global significance of these findings, stating, "In an era when roughly 28% of species are at risk of extinction, these discoveries reemphasize the reserve's status as a bioclimatic refuge. The ongoing collaboration with scientists from the Kingdom and 14 other countries has been pivotal in advancing this mission."

To further substantiate its role in conservation, the reserve has amassed considerable data from its ecological surveys. To date, researchers have recorded 240 bird species, encompassing seven global range extensions, alongside 18 bat species, 31 rodent and large mammal species, and 39 reptile species, showcasing the diversity flourishing within this area.

Innovative Research Approaches

Josh Smithson, Senior Wildlife Ecologist, highlighted the challenges faced in establishing a baseline for such a diverse ecosystem. The reserve adopted a phased research methodology, initially focusing on high-value ecological areas and progressively broadening their study scope. This structured approach has facilitated the integration of eco-monitoring programs, enhancing their understanding of ecological dynamics and informing effective management strategies for the reserve.

As a testament to its dedication to scientific advancement, the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has already published four peer-reviewed papers on its biodiversity findings, with more awaiting publication. This commitment to sharing knowledge with the global scientific community is amplifying its resonant impact within conservation circles.

Conclusion

The discoveries made at the Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve not only enrich the scientific understanding of the region but also highlight the critical need for ongoing conservation efforts to preserve these newly identified species. As climate change continues to alter the habitats of countless species, using innovative approaches and fostering international collaboration will be paramount in securing a future for our planet's biodiversity.