Oman: New animal, Plant species found at Jabal Samhan

Oman Observer reports on the latest scientific discoveries at Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve

At the Jabal Samhan Nature Reserve four new species of fat tailed gerbil have been unveiled by the National Field Research Centre for Environmental Conservation (NFRCEC) at the Diwan of Royal Court.

The study also unveiled 92 bird species belonging to 33 bird families, a new species of river fish and a new species of starfish. 250 animal species were also discovered inside the reserve.

Jabal Samhan is a natural habitat for a variety of animals and plants making it a natural reserve of beauty and a perfect example of environmental conservation. It is also the largest nature reserve in Dhofar spanning 4,500 sq km.

The study was conducted with the aim of identifying and documenting biodiversity with the purpose of setting up a database to measure environmental changes.