Doha, October 16 (QNA) - Qatar's national gene bank has emerged as a regional leader in plant conservation, safeguarding more than 11.3 million seeds that represent approximately 75% of the country's native plant species, officials announced on Thursday, marking the Arab Environment Day.

The National Gene Bank of Local Plants, managed by the Agricultural Research Department at the Ministry of Municipality, plays a central role in preserving the Gulf nation's plant biodiversity — including native trees, shrubs, and both annual and perennial herbs — in alignment with the country’s National Vision 2030.

Hamad Saket Al Shammari, Director of Agricultural Research, described the bank as a "scientific beacon" in the region, combining fieldwork, academic documentation, and applied research to protect Qatar’s natural heritage.

"Specialist teams conduct hundreds of exploratory missions each year to document native plant species and store them under optimal conditions that preserve their viability for decades," Al Shammari said.

The bank also supports key national projects, including the cultivation of Salicornia — a salt-tolerant plant — using recycled desalinated water, as part of broader efforts to rehabilitate degraded ecosystems and conserve local plant varieties.

Hassan Al Asmakh, Assistant Director of the Agricultural Research Department, highlighted the strategic importance of such initiatives in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.

Meanwhile, Aisha Dasmal Al Kuwari, Head of Genetic Resources Section, noted that the facility operates within a comprehensive institutional framework, conducting applied research that utilizes advanced genetic fingerprinting and modern biotechnology to classify native species and develop drought- and salt-tolerant cultivars.

"These innovations contribute directly to national food security and environmental resilience," she said.

The achievements of the gene bank underscore Qatar's ongoing commitment to biodiversity conservation, scientific research, and sustainable development — key pillars of its long-term vision for environmental and food policy. (QNA)