The UAE Safeguards Plant Genes for Future

The UAE's Natural Treasures: Preserving Plant Genetics for 100 Years

The UAE is placing increasing emphasis on conserving its natural resources, exemplified by the Plant Genetic Resource Centre (PGRC), operated by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. This high-tech center is nestled in the rocky regions of Al Ain, where scientists in white coats work diligently to preserve the DNA of all indigenous plant species, from desert shrubs to seagrass. Their goal is not just to save Abu Dhabi's biodiversity, but that of the entire UAE for future generations.

Seeds That Ensure Survival

The center began operations in March 2024 and, within the first few months, focused on mapping the genetics of six particularly endangered species. This includes the grey mangrove (Avicennia marina), the dwarf palm (Nannorrhops ritchieana), the rare mountain bush (Acridocarpus orientalis), the narrowleaf seagrass (Halodule uninervis), and the iconic ghaf tree (Prosopis cineraria). Collecting each plant is no easy feat: suitable specimens can often only be found in specific seasons, which are then transported from the field to the lab, crushed to extract DNA, and, if necessary, returned to the field.

From Freezer to Future

In the lab, seeds are carefully cleaned, stripped of debris and soil, and dried to a precise humidity before being placed in -20°C chambers, where they can be preserved for up to 100 years. The most valuable genetic materials are stored in a special cryobank at -196°C in liquid nitrogen. Currently, the center contains 580 seed samples from 130 species, with a long-term goal to encompass all of the UAE’s approximately 600 indigenous plant species.

Every Plant Has Its Place

The activities of PGRC do not stop at preserving seeds. The center's herbarium houses hundreds of dried and pressed plants, mounted on special paper to maintain their condition for centuries. More than 3,000 specimens have been digitized with detailed metadata. The region's first fungarium has also been established here, containing around 10 fungi species, including the remarkable Ganoderma colossum, discovered in Abu Dhabi. While it is still unknown if this fungus is edible or toxic, fungi in this group are known to have medicinal properties.

Interweaving Nature and Culture

The work is not only of scientific significance but also preserves cultural heritage. Many plants have played important roles in local life: as food, medicine, or raw materials for traditional tools. For example, wild chickpeas consumed as salads and the Sidr tree valued for its healing properties and honey. Some plants are ecologically vital, such as the Capparis cartilaginea in the Hajar Mountains, the sole food source for the endangered giant skipper butterfly. If the plant were to disappear, so would the butterfly.

Not Just a Laboratory – A Living Classroom

Although the center is not currently open to the general public, it regularly hosts school and university groups. Soon, a summer program will be launched where students can get hands-on experience with the seed bank, herbarium, and fungarium. The aim is for young people to develop a closer relationship with the natural environment and understand the importance of conservation.

(Source of the article: Based on the announcement by the Plant Genetic Resource Centre (PGRC).)