Vital role of Persian Gulf mangrove forests
Forests are among the largest and most vital genetic resources, both from ancient times to the present. The history of ancient plant formation and distribution dates back approximately420 million years. Iran’s vast forests contain rich gene reservoirs of specific species that have been utilized and exploited by humans for thousands of years. They are crucial habitats and some of the oldest living organisms on Earth, covering about one-third of the planet’s surface.
Over time, forests have evolved and adapted, spreading rapidly to dominate many landscapes. Despite undergoing changes or destruction due to climate change, many forests endure, providing habitats for various animal and plant species. The gene pools and genomes of the ancient forests of the Persian Gulf, which harbor some of the rarest plant species, have attracted human interest due to their unique geographical location throughout history, as noted by chtn.ir.
Mangrove forests of the Persian Gulf
The Persian Gulf can be viewed as the cradle of ancient civilizations in southern Iran, with mangrove forests covering approximately 10,070 hectares. These forests consist of various plant species that thrive in three primary forms: island, deltaic, and coastal. However, environmental pollution, particularly marine pollution, poses a complex challenge that humanity currently faces, threatening the delicate balance of these vital ecosystems.
The importance of mangrove forests, recognized globally as biosphere reserves, is significant. Despite extensive exploitation, these ecosystems have persisted. Mangroves are wetland areas situated between tidal zones, characterized by a variety of unique plants and specific animals that thrive in coastal and marshy environments. In Iran, mangrove forests are primarily composed of two species: Avicennia marina (known as Hara) and Rhizophora mucronata (known as Chandl). These species flourish in their unique habitats, continuously influenced by sea tides and flooding.
Characteristics of Hara trees
The Hara tree is a remarkable plant that thrives in sunlight, reaching heights of five to ten meters. Its flowering period occurs in early August, producing small yellow flowers with a delightful fragrance. An interesting aspect of Hara’s growth is its viviparity; the seed germinates while still attached to the mother tree and falls into the water after sprouting. The roots of the Hara consist of a short vertical root and numerous inclined lateral roots. When seawater rises, the crowns of the Hara trees remain above the water, creating a stunning landscape that attracts many tourists who explore the area by boat.
Hara trees can thrive in salty water while purifying it into freshwater. Additionally, the sap of the Hara tree possesses medicinal properties and has been shown to affect the bacillus that causes leprosy. The mangrove forests in Hormozgan, located around Qeshm Island, Bandar Pol, Hormoz Island, and Bandar Khamir, are home to diverse wildlife and pristine nature, making them important tourist attractions. These forests are designated as protected areas by the Environmental Protection Organization and are recognized as the Hara Biosphere Reserve due to their international significance. The Hara forest in Tis, Chabahar, is noted as one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in the region, located about120 kilometers from Chabahar, near the Iran-Pakistan border and close to the Gwadar Gulf.
Conservation strategies and economic importance
Studying the distribution patterns and genetic diversity of these species helps prioritize populations for conservation, identify at-risk species, and highlight gaps in gene bank collections. This information is vital for addressing global challenges such as food security and climate change. Many of these species possess commercial value, contributing to local economies. Additionally, marine forests play a crucial role in stabilizing coastlines against erosion caused by powerful sea waves. They are also acknowledged for their significant contributions to providing wood and fodder. Furthermore, these ecosystems are effective in reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, thereby playing a role in mitigating climate change.
Historical context and threats to mangroves
Historically, mangrove environments were deemed harsh and useless, leading to their destruction through various means. Consequently, 80% of the world’s marine forests have been lost due to road construction, waste dumping, excessive harvesting, and the establishment of irrigation systems, pushing these ecosystems toward extinction.
The study of ancient forests in Iran, such as the Hara, highlights the need for increased discussions about the preservation and protection of these ancient genetic reservoirs and their sustainable use. With the global destruction of tropical forests, there is growing attention to marine ecosystems that are threatened or facing extinction, recognized as habitats for numerous aquatic species and the animals that depend on them.
Biodiversity and the Persian Gulf
Biodiversity encompasses a wide range of concepts, from genetic diversity to ecosystem diversity. A key component of biodiversity is species diversity, which refers to the variety of species present at local or regional levels. The ancient forests of the Persian Gulf harbor some of the rarest plant species, making their gene pools and genomes particularly significant. This unique geographical location has attracted human attention throughout history.
In recent years, as tropical forests face widespread destruction, there has been increasing attention on marine forest ecosystems that are threatened or at risk of extinction. Many specialists recognize these ecosystems as vital habitats for numerous aquatic species and the animals that depend on them. Marine forests play a crucial role in stabilizing coastlines against erosion caused by powerful sea waves. They are also acknowledged for their significant contributions to providing wood and fodder. Furthermore, these ecosystems are effective in reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, thereby playing a role in mitigating climate change.