Ghaf tree genome project aiming to combat environmental warming effects

A pioneering study of the UAE’s national tree has been completed in Abu Dhabi to try to better understand the genetic traits that make it so resilient in arid conditions.

The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi joined forces with technology-enabled healthcare company M42 to carry out a groundbreaking genome sequencing of the Prosopis cineraria, also known as the ghaf tree, and boost efforts to protect nature from the effects of climate change.

Declared the UAE’s national tree in 2008, the ghaf typically lives for 120 years and plays a crucial role in stabilising desert soil. It also provides a sanctuary for wildlife. It was traditionally used to feed livestock and was revered for its purported medicinal properties.

M42’s team of environmental scientists, led by medical director Dr Wael Elamin, harnessed cutting-edge sequencing platforms from Oxford Nanopore Technologies to achieve high-quality whole-genome sequencing of the tree.

“Human health is intricately intertwined with environmental health, and this has become increasingly clear to the world at large,” said Dr Fahed Al Marzooqi, deputy group chief operating officer at M42.

“Our groundbreaking sequencing initiative aims to enhance the understanding of the ghaf tree’s genetic adaptations for thriving in arid conditions, which safeguards and champions the UAE’s natural legacy.

“The research also assumes critical significance as the world seeks to tackle the environment warming effects of climate change.”

Ahmed Al Hashmi, executive director of the terrestrial and marine biodiversity sector at EAD, said the research will further efforts to promote sustainability.

“We are pleased to partner with M42 on this pioneering project analysing and sequencing the genome of the ghaf tree in line with our mission of monitoring and conserving plant species in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

“Our main goal is to have a better understanding through scientific research of the ghaf tree to develop policies and a conservation framework to assure sustainability of the species for the future generations and to preserve the natural heritage of the UAE.”

The innovative project was announced yesterday at the Arab Health Exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The ghaf tree study is the latest example of the UAE’s drive to embrace technology to protect the environment.

In June 2022, a plan to develop plant varieties and animal breeds better suited to the UAE’s environmental conditions was unveiled by Abu Dhabi’s government.

The Abu Dhabi Agricultural Genome Programme involves scientific research centres carrying out work to create new varieties and breeds.