Oman’s plant biodiversity to be discussed

MUSCAT: Leading domestic and international scientists will gather this week for a two-day workshop to discuss the National Plant Agro-biodiversity Conservation Strategy.

Organised by the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Centre (OAPGRC), the workshop will cover themes including Oman’s plant agrobiodiversity; local plant species on the IUCN’s Red List; the use of plant genetic resources; conservation strategies for crop landraces; crop wild relatives, and medicinal plants; and the impact of climate change on plant genetic resources.

Two-day workshop

In addition to the OAPGRC, organisations providing input to the strategy and participating at the two-day workshop include representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries; Ministry of Environment & Climate Affairs; Ministry of Heritage & Culture; Sultan Qaboos University; Oman Botanic Garden; National Field Research Centre for Environment Conservation; and Royal Court Affairs.

Strategy advice

Advising on the strategy is Dr. Nigel Maxted, Senior Lecturer in Genetic Conservation at the University of Birmingham.

Dr. Maxted is a globally recognised genetic conservation expert who has recently been involved in developing a strategic options paper for the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

“We’re honoured to have Dr. Maxted collaborate with us on this important national strategy,” said Dr. Nadiya Al Saady, OAPGRC’s Executive Director.