24th SICFAB focuses on species assessments and capacity-building

Significant progress in reptile and amphibian assessments

As part of its ongoing research efforts, the Red List Assessment Group continued its work on the second day, evaluating the conservation status of 62 endemic species of reptiles and amphibians, including lizards, freshwater turtles, and snakes. These assessments are critical in updating regional conservation priorities, identifying rare and endangered species, and guiding future protection strategies based on the latest scientific data.

Marine Session: Advanced skills in stranding response

The conference also featured a dedicated marine session, shifting focus towards practical skills in responding to whale strandings. Participants engaged in specialized training on post-mortem examinations, data collection protocols, and ethical intervention strategies. The session provided an in-depth exploration of best practices for effectively handling stranded whales and refining conservation efforts in marine ecosystems.

Empowering young researchers and enhancing scientific expertise

A key highlight of the second day was a scientific platform showcasing university students' research and projects from across the Arabian Peninsula. These studies covered diverse topics, including atrazine removal techniques, causes of green sea turtle embryo mortality, and vertebrate diversity in protected areas. The platform offered young researchers the opportunity to present their findings to a distinguished audience of environmental scientists and biodiversity experts.

To further support emerging environmental researchers, the conference hosted a specialized training session focused on developing students’ skills in conservation science and species assessments. Key topics included field techniques, data analysis, and effective strategies for species evaluation and protection, equipping participants with the necessary expertise to contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts in the region.

Bridging generations and uniting efforts for biodiversity protection

The second day’s sessions also emphasised the importance of collaboration between seasoned experts and emerging conservationists. Discussions and training sessions served as a bridge for knowledge exchange, fostering stronger cooperation among researchers of different generations. Through these initiatives, the conference reaffirmed its pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of conservation efforts in the Arabian Peninsula and cultivating a new generation of scientists capable of leading future biodiversity protection initiatives.

As the second day concluded, participants underscored the need for strengthened research collaboration, the development of effective conservation mechanisms, and the promotion of applied research to support environmental protection strategies. The insights gained from the scientific discussions and training sessions are expected to enhance the region’s ability to address environmental challenges and develop innovative solutions for sustainable biodiversity conservation in the future.