Al Ain Zoo showcases Ghaf Tree during Endangered Species Month

Abu Dhabi (WAM): Al Ain Zoo is showcasing the Ghaf Tree as an integral part of the UAE's heritage, during the Arabian Endangered Species Month campaign. The campaign was launched earlier this month as part of the zoo's commitment to environment and wildlife conservation and educating the public on the UAE's natural environment. As well as its ability to grow in dry climates, high temperatures, and withstand long periods without water, the Ghaf Tree traditionally brought people together during their travels providing them with shade and shelter. It has an integrated root system reaching 30 metres underground, allowing it to access moisture found deep in the sand and is high in mineral content, making it an excellent form of nutrition for both humans and animals. Commenting on this initiative, Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director-General of Al Ain Zoo, said, "Al Ain Zoo is highly involved in programmes and initiatives which focus on environment conservation. We are consistently working towards educating the public on the importance of preserving the environment. By showcasing the Ghaf Tree, we deliver a message that will raise awareness on the importance of preserving native desert species, highly focusing on the tree that has proven its ability to survive and provide for all of us despite our harsh weather conditions. "Al Ain Zoo has recently begun replacing its current plants and trees with ones that are native to the UAE, including the area surrounding the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, and this initiative comes in line with the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his commitment to the conservation of our natural environment," Al Hajeri said. The Ghaf Tree was previously used in several industries including construction. It is highly used for medicinal purposes including the treatment of scorpion and snake bites, as well as rheumatism, coughs, the common cold, asthma, dysentery, bronchitis, and eye infections. – Emirates News Agency, WAM