Wadi Wurayah

World Heritage Research

Discover scientific research and academic studies that deepen our understanding of Wadi Wurayah from its history and significance to its conservation, management, and contemporary challenges.

• Five records of new and rare alien species to the flora of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

  A recent study identifies five alien plant species previously unknown or extremely rare in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), including Chenopodium ficifolium, Acalypha indica, Euphorbia maculata, Gamochaeta pensylvanica, and Verbesina encelioides. Notably, some of these species were recorded for the first time in Fujairah Emirate, expanding their known distribution in the region. The research provides detailed taxonomic information, habitat preferences, and spatial distribution data for each species, along with key identification remarks to differentiate them from similar taxa. Euphorbia maculata was found exclusively in two specific locations, while Chenopodium ficifolium and Acalypha indica were documented in nurseries and plant markets. Gamochaeta pensylvanica and Verbesina encelioides are particularly rare in the UAE, with the latter naturalized in Khor-Fakkan (Sharjah). Herbarium specimens were deposited in institutions including the Komarov Botanical Institute (LE), Altai State University (ALTB), and the Scientific Herbarium of Fujairah (FSH) at Wadi Wurayah National Park.

  Byalt, V. V., & Korshunov, M. V. (2024). Five records of new and rare alien species to the flora of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Turczaninowia, 27(1), 1–19. https://doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.27.1.1

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• Success of captive breeding and a hormonal trial to increase the reproductive efficacy of Arabian Tahr, Arabitrgus jayakari

  A hormonal trial using short-term progestagen treatment followed by eCG injection significantly increased the reproductive efficacy of Arabian Tahr (Arabitrgus jayakari) in captivity, with a higher pregnancy rate and lambing success observed in treated groups compared to controls. The study, conducted at Wadi Wurayah, Fujairah, from 2018-2022, found that while the overall pregnancy rate declined over time (from 90% to 66.7%), hormonal synchronization improved outcomes. Specifically, a seven-day progestagen treatment (G2) yielded better results than longer treatments or no intervention. The research suggests that estrous synchronization and early ovulation induction could enhance captive breeding success for this endangered species, though further studies on eCG dosages and nutritional needs are recommended.

  Mansour, N., M. Korshunov, V., & Pankajakshan, P. (2022). Success of captive breeding and a hormonal trial to increase the reproductive efficacy of Arabian Tahr, Arabitrgus jayakari. Emirates Journal of Food and Agriculture. https://doi.org/10.9755/ejfa.2022.v34.i10.2922

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• A new species of the genus Grammacephalus Haupt (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from the United Arab Emirates, with a key to species of the genus known from the Arabian Peninsula

  A new species of leafhopper, Grammacephalus albatus, has been discovered in Wadi Wurayah National Park, United Arab Emirates. This tiny insect, part of the Hemiptera order, adds to the biodiversity of the Arabian Peninsula and provides insights into the region's ecological diversity. The study includes a key to identify five species of Grammacephalus known from the peninsula, contributing to taxonomic knowledge. Additionally, it discusses the relationships between Grammacephalus and another genus, Bampurius, and re-evaluates the taxonomic position of Grammacephalus genoicus. This research enhances our understanding of hemipteran diversity in arid ecosystems.

  GNEZDILOV, V. M. (2021). A new species of the genus Grammacephalus Haupt (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from the United Arab Emirates, with a key to species of the genus known from the Arabian Peninsula. Zootaxa, 4995(2), 396–400. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4995.2.13

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• A first confirmed record of the Indian Crested Porcupine Hystrix indica (Mammalia: Rodentia: Hystricidae) in the United Arab Emirates

  Researchers have documented the first confirmed presence of the Indian Crested Porcupine (Hystrix indica) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant extension—approximately 600 km—beyond its known range in Arabia. The discovery was made through camera trap images captured at two locations within Wadi Wurayah National Park (WWNP) between 2015 and 2016, alongside social surveys conducted in nearby villages, confirming long-term occupancy. This isolated subpopulation suggests a previously unrecorded presence of the species in the region, warranting further investigation into its genetic and demographic resilience.

  Chreiki, M. K., Steer, M. D., Majeed, S. U., Kakembo, S., & Ross, S. (2018). A first confirmed record of the Indian Crested Porcupine Hystrix indica (Mammalia: Rodentia: Hystricidae) in the United Arab Emirates Journal of Threatened Taxa, 10(7), 11928. https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.4093.10.7.11928-11933

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• A new species of the Genus Adenissus (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Caliscelidae) from United Arab Emirates

  Researchers have identified and described a new species of planthopper, Adenissus fuscus, from Wadi Wurayah National Park in the United Arab Emirates. This discovery expands the known diversity of the genus Adenissus to three species within the Arabian Peninsula, with A. fuscus being the second recorded in the UAE. The species is distinguished by its smaller body size (4.6 mm for females), brown coloration, and elongated fore wings that reach the hind margin of abdominal tergite IV. Phylogenetic analysis suggests a close relationship with A. isinus from Iran, both sharing unique morphological traits such as an elongate coryphe and long rostrum. The study provides a key to differentiate these species, contributing valuable insights into the taxonomy and biodiversity of Hemiptera in the region.

  Gnezdilov, V. M. (2017). A new species of the Genus Adenissus (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea: Caliscelidae) from United Arab Emirates. Proceedings of the Zoological Institute RAS, 321(3), 320–325. https://doi.org/10.31610/trudyzin/2017.321.3.320

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• Site suitability evaluation for ecotourism potential areas using RS and GIS: a case study of Wadi Wurayah, Fujairah, UAE

  A land suitability map for ecotourism potential areas was developed using GIS techniques, identifying highly suitable regions primarily within protected zones of Wadi Wurayah, UAE. The study prioritized sites based on landscape characteristics, visibility, topography, accessibility, and community factors, providing a systematic approach to ecotourism resource utilization. This methodology offers a framework for optimal land use planning in tourism development while ensuring sustainable conservation practices.

  Abou-Elnour, A., Pallathucheril, V., & Abou-Elnour, A. (2015). Site suitability evaluation for ecotourism potential areas using RS and GIS: a case study of Wadi Wurayah, Fujairah, UAE. Remote Sensing and Modeling of Ecosystems for Sustainability XII, 9610, 961002. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2186783

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• Hydrogeology of Wadi Wurayah, United Arab Emirates, and its importance for biodiversity and local communities

  Wadi Wurayah, located within the Hajar Mountain range in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, harbors a unique hydrogeological system that sustains permanent freshwater habitats critical for biodiversity. Annual rainfall of 18.7 hm³ generates 2.24 hm³ of runoff, which recharges the mountain ophiolite complex, creating springs with magnesium bicarbonate water that meets drinking standards but falls short on bacteriological criteria near tourist areas. These springs support rare species, including two amphibians and a fish, along with newly discovered aquatic insects. The study highlights the urgent need for active management to mitigate human pressure on this ecologically significant wadi, blending hydrogeological analysis with biodiversity assessment.

  Tourenq, C., Brook, M., Knuteson, S., Shuriqi, M. K., Sawaf, M., & Perry, L. (2011). Hydrogeology of Wadi Wurayah, United Arab Emirates, and its importance for biodiversity and local communities. Hydrological Sciences Journal, 56(8), 1407–1422. https://doi.org/10.1080/02626667.2011.631139

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