Revisiting the new plant species discovered in Oman

Oman's landscape is filled with rugged mountains, vast deserts, and unique ecosystems. Although about 82% of Oman is covered by deserts, the country boasts a rich variety of plant and animal life. The weather here varies a lot, with temperatures ranging from a chilly 10°C to a warm 30°C and rainfall between 27 mm and 400 mm each year, depending on where you are in the country.

In the past 15 years, researchers have been hard at work uncovering the secrets of Oman’s plant life. Their efforts have revealed many new species of plants, some of which have never been seen before in the Arabian Peninsula. Recently, a study highlighted eight new plant species discovered in Oman, raising the total number of known plants in the country to an impressive 1,417.

Discovering New Plant Species

Recently featured in the Edinburgh Journal of Botany is the work of Saif aI Hatmi, Abdulrahman Al Hinai, ,Zawan Al Qassabi, Ali Mohammed Alzahrani and Sabina Georgina Knees titled Studies in the Flora of Arabia: XXXV. New Records from the Sultanate of Oman.

Supported by the Oman Botanic Garden and the Environmental Authority in Salalah, the study focused on remote and unexplored mountain areas in northern Oman, especially the Musandam region and parts of Dhofar.

These areas are not just beautiful; they’re also home to many plants that thrive in tough conditions. For example, ancient farming terraces in Musandam create a safe space for rare plants to grow, making this region a treasure trove of biodiversity.

Among the exciting discoveries were Pistacia khinjuk, a type of tree, and Hordeum murinum, a kind of grass. These plants were found in areas where traditional farmers have managed the land for centuries. The farmers’ practices help prevent soil erosion and support the growth of various plant species.

Dhofar is also special because it experiences a summer monsoon, known as the khareef, which brings mist and moisture. This unique weather allows for rich woodlands and special plant species to flourish, creating a lush environment that is home to plants found both in Oman and East Africa.

While deserts cover a significant portion of Oman, the mountainous and coastal regions support rich plant life that is crucial for both the environment and the livelihoods of its people.

Among the newly discovered species is Clerodendrum phlomidis, a member of the Lamiaceae family, found in the Dhofar region's dry valleys. This plant, native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, represents the westernmost record of its occurrence, highlighting Oman's role as a bridge between diverse ecosystems. Another notable find is Verbascum virgatum from the Scrophulariaceae family, which has been recorded for the first time in the Arabian Peninsula, specifically in the disturbed areas of the Dhofar mountains. Originally from western Europe, this species can outcompete native flora, making its monitoring critical for local biodiversity.

Additionally, Sesuvium revolutifolium, a member of the Aizoaceae family, has been identified in Mahdah, thriving among crops. This plant, native to the Americas, expands its known range, illustrating the dynamics of global plant movements. The discovery of Pistacia khinjuk, part of the Anacardiaceae family, in the Musandam mountains adds to the diversity of the Pistacia genus in Oman, as it was previously found only in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Schouwia purpurea, a Brassicaceae family member, has also been recorded in the Western Hajar Mountains, showcasing the region's rich plant life and its connections to broader geographical areas.

Further discoveries include Jatropha spinosa, an Euphorbiaceae family member found in Jabal Al Qamar, originally from East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, highlighting the shared plant heritage among these regions. Another notable find, Cocculus hirsutus, belonging to the Menispermaceae family, was observed on rocky cliffs in Jabal Al Qatar. Although widespread across the Arabian Peninsula, it is rare in Oman, where its population faces challenges due to drought. Lastly, Hordeum murinum, part of the Poaceae family, has been recorded in the Musandam mountains, particularly on traditional agricultural terraces, indicating the significance of traditional farming practices in supporting biodiversity.

The Importance of Monitoring Plant Life

Despite these discoveries, Oman’s unique plant life faces challenges. Urban growth, livestock farming, and climate change threaten many of these species and their habitats. For instance, the growth of cities can destroy natural spaces, while climate change affects rainfall patterns and increases temperatures, putting pressure on fragile mountain plants. Additionally, invasive plant species can outcompete local plants, making it even harder for them to survive.

Scientists believe that 9.2% of Oman’s plant species are at risk of disappearing. This makes it essential to keep detailed records of the different plants found in the country. By studying and documenting these species, researchers can better understand how to protect them and ensure that Oman’s rich biodiversity continues for future generations.

The systematic recording of Oman's flora is vital for several reasons. It plays a crucial role in biodiversity protection, allowing for the identification of rare or threatened species and enabling targeted conservation efforts. Understanding plant species is essential for maintaining ecological balance, as each species contributes to the health of its ecosystem, supporting various animals, insects, and soil health. Additionally, many plant species are intertwined with local traditions and livelihoods, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural practices related to flora. Finally, documenting new species can yield significant scientific advancements in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental science, enhancing global understanding of plant diversity.

These new discoveries underscore the critical importance of the Oman Botanic Garden in preserving biodiversity, particularly in desert regions. The garden plays a pioneering role in scientific research and education, enhancing its status as a reference center for Omani plant sciences and Arab flora in the region. It is instrumental in safeguarding local biodiversity and enriching scientific knowledge, acting as a living laboratory for the study of unique plant species native to Oman.