A 2015 file photo of Ghaf tree (Prosopis cineraria) on Al Furqan Street in Al Luqta are, Doha. Pic: FloraOfQatar.com
An endangered species of a local plant will get a new life with conservation initiative launched by the Ministry of Municipality and Environment.
Prosopis cineraria, commonly known as the ‘ghaf’ tree, is threatened with extinction and is found at just two sites in the country in the wild, according to ministry officials.
The hardy, evergreen species, indigenous to the region, is drought-tolerant and a master at surviving searing winds and the fierce glare of the sun. However, rampant urbanisation, unchecked growth of harmful plants and overgrazing are threatening its survival.
The tree has several benefits notably the reduction of desert encroachment and the movement of sand, as well as the use of seeds as animal feed, timber in housing construction, including small parts in cooking fuel and coal production. The tree is found in extremely arid conditions, with rainfall as low as 15 cm annually, but is indicative of the presence of a deep water table.
The Ministry, through various biodiversity and conservation research, had found places suitable to grow Ghaf in large numbers. Currently, the plant is found mainly in two areas in the north of the country, in the wild. The others found in houses, parks and farms have been imported from other countries, Ministry officials revealed to the press yesterday.
Some 1,000 seedlings of the tree will be planted in a fenced area in Al Shamal, so as to protect it. Harmful plants as mesquite, which shun the growth of ‘Ghaf’ are being removed from the area. This will also help ensure sufficient water for the endangered plant. The fencing is aimed to prevent encroachment and overgrazing, so that trees can grow, according to officials.
The conservation efforts are aimed at sustaining the Qatari Ghaf which is very rare and endangered. According to experts, currently, less than 50 endangered trees exist in the country.
