Oman Advances National Gene Bank Project for Biodiversity Conservation

The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, represented by the Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Center (Mawrid), is conducting scientific efforts to collect, preserve, and study biodiversity across Oman. These initiatives aim to strengthen the country's capacity to address environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution, and increasing human pressure on ecosystems. This full work forms the basis for a future national gene bank project designed to preserve Oman’s genetic resources for future generations and enable their use in research, biotechnology, and bio-based industries. Dr. Mohammed bin Nasser Al Yahyaei, Acting Head of Mawrid, stated that "genetic resource conservation is a cornerstone of Oman’s emerging bioeconomy." Dr. Al Yahyaei added that "Mawrid’s work represents a strategic step toward establishing an integrated national gene bank, positioning Oman as a regional hub for biodiversity research and innovation." The establishment of such a facility shows Oman's commitment to safeguarding its unique natural heritage and fostering scientific advancement.

Extensive Biodiversity Collections

The Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Center (Mawrid) houses extensive scientific collections covering terrestrial, marine, plant, and microbial life. Thousands of samples have been gathered from diverse ecosystems across the Sultanate of Oman as part of this effort, reflecting the nation's rich ecological variety. These collections are meticulously cataloged and preserved to ensure their long-term viability for research and future applications.

Mawrid has preserved approximately 1,500 cryopreserved semen samples from purebred Arabian horses, a critical step in conserving this culturally significant breed. Additionally, the center holds 100 DNA samples specifically from horses, providing a valuable genetic repository. The facility has documented around 400 samples from 18 distinct wild animal species. These include iconic Omani fauna such as the Arabian oryx, Arabian gazelle, Nubian ibex, and Arabian lynx. The focus on both domestic and wild animals notes Mawrid's broad conservation mandate.

Regarding marine life, Mawrid maintains genetic and tissue samples from 68 fish species and 20 seaweed species. These aquatic collections are vital for understanding and protecting Oman's extensive marine ecosystems. The center's collections also feature fungi, bacteria, and macrofungi, demonstrating an inclusive approach to microbial biodiversity. Mawrid has preserved more than 350 seed collections. Asila bint Suleiman Al Naabi, a genetic resources specialist at Mawrid, confirmed that "more than 350 seed collections have been preserved, including strategic crops such as wheat and barley, alongside wild, medicinal, aromatic, and endangered plant species." These plant genetic resources are key for food security and the potential discovery of new medicinal compounds.

Scientific Infrastructure and Data Management

The Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Center (Mawrid) has preserved nearly 1,000 frozen semen samples from local cattle, contributing to its extensive genetic collections. This effort supports the genetic diversity of indigenous livestock breeds. To support its fieldwork and data collection efforts, the center has introduced a mobile research laboratory. This laboratory is equipped with advanced tools designed to facilitate research operations across various locations in Oman, enabling on-site sample processing and data acquisition in remote areas.

Mawrid has also developed a digital platform for the documentation and management of biodiversity data. This platform consolidates genetic, taxonomic, and environmental information collected by the center. It serves as a centralized hub for all genetic resources data. Dr. Mohammed bin Nasser Al Yahyaei, Acting Head of Mawrid, stated that "the platform is expected to evolve into a national genetic resources database linked with universities and research institutions, integrating bioinformatics tools to enhance scientific research and sustainable resource utilisation." This development aims to centralize and streamline access to Oman's genetic resources data for broader scientific engagement, fostering collaboration and maximizing the utility of the collected information.

Collaborations and Future Vision

The Oman Animal and Plant Genetic Resources Center (Mawrid) maintains genetic and tissue samples from 20 mollusk species, contributing to its diverse collections and showing the breadth of its conservation efforts across various taxa. These conservation efforts are supported by extensive national and international collaborations. Nationally, Mawrid partners with institutions including Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Nizwa, Dhofar University, A’Sharqiyah University, the Royal Court Affairs, the Environment Authority, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. These partnerships ensure a coordinated national approach to genetic resource management. Internationally, collaborations extend to partners in the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, and Finland, broadening the scope of genetic resource conservation for Oman by sharing expertise and best practices. These global connections position Oman as an active participant in the international scientific community dedicated to biodiversity preservation.