Sharjah Biodiversity Forum Highlights Seabird Rescue And Invasive Species Risks In Arabian Peninsula

The 25th Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity, organised by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, is being held at Sharjah Safari until 5th February. Around 180 researchers, veterinarians, and specialists from Arab states and global institutions are attending. Sessions cover invasive species, seabird medicine, and biodiversity data, with a focus on practical tools that support conservation decisions across the Arabian Peninsula.

Participants are examining how scientific assessments guide real-world policy, especially in fragile coastal and desert ecosystems. Discussions are linking field research to environmental planning, including the use of Red Lists, invasive species impact ratings, and structured monitoring after wildlife release. These topics are presented as essential for designing effective protected areas and restoration programmes in the region.

One major theme at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity is the threat from invasive ants and agricultural pests. Entomologist Dr. Mustafa Sharaf, from the Sharjah Desert Park Wildlife Museum, described how human activities enable invasive ants to spread quickly. These ants can damage native and endemic species, destabilise populations, and sometimes drive sensitive organisms to local extinction.

Experts at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity noted that invasive ants may also transmit pathogens indirectly, especially in hospitals and homes. Presenters shared international examples where these ants harmed crops and ecosystems, creating economic losses estimated in the hundreds of billions of dollars. Specialists also warned that the red palm weevil is among the most harmful invasive species in the Arab region, with heavy environmental and financial impacts.

A workshop titled "Conducting EICAT Assessments to Determine the Environmental Impact of Invasive Species" at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity highlighted the need for unified methods. Delegates discussed how standardised classifications, such as EICAT categories, help compare invasive species impacts and build strong environmental databases. These tools assist decision-makers when ranking control priorities and directing limited funding to the most damaging species.

Complementing this, a session named "Facilitating Strategic Planning for Decision-Makers" within the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity outlined how quantified invasive species impacts feed into planning. Participants examined how assigning species to clear environmental categories shapes resource allocation, from field surveys to control campaigns. Speakers stressed that such planning supports ecological balance in affected habitats and improves transparency in conservation spending.

Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity and seabird rehabilitation

Wildlife health professionals at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity also focused on seabird rescue workflows. A panel titled "Triage, Stabilisation, Rehabilitation, Post Release, Outcomes/Monitoring", with Dr. Tres Clarke and Dr. David Roberts, explored operational obstacles. Discussants mentioned high costs of long-term care, the need for robust release criteria, and the importance of tracking released birds to measure survival and rehabilitation success.

Clinical issues were addressed in another Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity session, "Clinical, Therapeutic, and Pathological Insights from Rehabilitated Cormorants", led by Dr. Miceala Shocklee and Dr. Daniela Dink. Presenters explained that emaciation is a key concern, as underweight birds struggle to forage and face higher predation risks. Internal parasites become more harmful in these weakened birds, especially when combined with injuries from fishing hooks or other human-related hazards.

Speakers at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity also described common wounds in rescued seabirds, including soft tissue trauma and external parasite infestations. They underlined that accurate diagnosis, suitable treatment protocols, and tailored supportive care are vital for recovery. These steps are needed before animals are released into their habitats, to reduce post-release mortality and avoid repeated admissions.

Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity and seabird pathology, Red Lists

The session "Pathological Insights from Rescued Seagulls", presented by Dr. Sara Zavala, Dr. Shamma AlEissaee, and Dr. Nina Gianelli at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity, examined causes of seabird deaths. The speakers highlighted necropsy as a core scientific tool that reveals both direct and underlying mortality factors. Findings showed that kidney disease is common and can sometimes progress to serious neurological problems.

Elsewhere at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity, discussions on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species emphasised how scientific classification supports biodiversity governance. Experts explained that Red Lists document species status, quantify extinction risk, and guide the designation of protected areas. They also help shape environmental rehabilitation programmes and align conservation activities with global Sustainable Development Goals and regional strategies.

During closing exchanges at the Sharjah International Forum for Arabian Biodiversity, participants called for stronger regional and international cooperation. They urged wider sharing of scientific expertise, active involvement of local communities and volunteers in early reporting, and better-integrated databases. Delegates agreed that unified information systems and joint action are crucial to protect coastal and terrestrial ecosystems and safeguard the natural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.

With inputs from WAM