The Azraq Oasis: Biodiversity, Threats and Conservation

Abstract

Tl\e Azraq Wetland Reserve at the heart of the Eastern Desert provides a heterogeneous natural habitat for ~~mservation and protection of the unique aquatic and terrestrial species. The intensive pumping of water from the oasis and wells for local farms caused decline in water level and salinization of soil in the reserve. The increased' salinity changed the structure and function of ecological systems. Four main habitat types predominated until recently: (a) perennial marsh, (b) seasonal marsh, (c) silt dune, and (d) qa'a (or saline mudflat). Presently, about 90% or. the former wetland area within the reserve is highly degraded and Tamarix scrub is quickly developing in these areas. The seasonal marshes have been dry since 1996, and presently are highly degraded. One endemic fresh water fish, Aphanius sirhani, is known to occur only in the Azraq Oasis. The Oasis i~. a refuge for some of the Palearctic species such as Camaeleo camaeleon. Malpolon monspessulanus insignitus and Natrix tessellata. The Oasis is considered the most important bird area (IBA) in Jordan. Over 300 species of birds are recorded in the are!l, which until recently was a significant area for breeding and non-breeding water birds. The traditional people of Azraq Basin are pastoral nomads, and the wetlands of Azraq were a key element in their livelihoods. Most of the Bedouin now have resident lifestyles. This study' shows the nefarious impact of humans on Azraq and suggests conservation issues and management practices in the Oasis. Socio-economic aspects of the reserve and the involvement of local communities in conservation are highlighted and assessed in the context of the manageOlent plan produced for the Oasis. Results of species inventories and evaluation features for rehabilitation, long-term objectives for management and proposed action plan prescriptions have been synthesized. EnvironmelJtal relationships that may have implications for management in terms of grazing, fire and hydrology are also indicated.