Plant genetic resources in UAE

Plant genetic resources are an important component of biodiversity. They contribute to our livelihoods by providing food, medicine, feed for domestic animals, fiber, clothing, shelter and energy. There are about 750 plant species reported from the UAE and a large number of these have various economic use such as fodder and medicinal and therefore great potential for economic exploitation. Many of these species, however, are coming under increasing threat due to loss of habitat from rapid urbanization, expansion of human settlements and overgrazing. The training course will focus on the importance of native plant genetic resources and strategies for their conservation and utilization using conventional as well as biotechnological approaches.