Sharjah Ruler: Freshwater fish discovered in Wasit Reserve

January 30, 2025 / 1:53 AM

Sharjah24: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah has unveiled a remarkable natural phenomenon within the Wasit Nature Reserve. A water pond, formed by a natural spring, has been discovered with salinity levels 50 times higher than seawater. Despite these extreme conditions, this pond surprisingly hosts freshwater fish, flourishing in its distinctive ecosystem.

Experts from South Africa

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, explained during a phone interview on the “Direct Line” programme broadcast on Sharjah Broadcasting Authority that he had brought in experts from South Africa to study this unique site. Experts have found that the fish are able to survive thanks to a freshwater spring located at the edge of the lake.

They drilled wells in various directions and injected a yellow substance under pressure to prevent any impact on the adjacent lake. Through this process, they discovered the source of the spring and traced the watercourse to an abandoned piece of land. They drilled wells in various directions and injected a yellow substance under pressure to prevent any impact on the nearby lake. During this investigation, they identified the origin of the spring and followed the watercourse to an abandoned part of land.

Preserving an Ancient Natural Site

According to His Highness, human activity changed the natural stream, causing the water to pause and then re-emerge here, waiting for the chance to continue on its journey. The lake's water supply was thus shut off. His Highness underlined that because of the site's age, efforts have been taken to protect it and the surrounding area.