Iran (IMNA) - The biodiversity of any country is a valuable and vulnerable reserve, especially now that we are facing many risks and challenges, such as climate change, urbanization, industrial activities, and habitat destruction, all of which threaten the life of biodiversity. As time passes, many species, both plants and animals, may be lost, and if there is no information about them, they may be forgotten forever or incorrect studies may be conducted on their remains. Therefore, one of the best methods that has been provided in the past years for identifying and classifying animals quickly and reliably is molecular marker identification (DNA Barcoding). In this method, precise and fast tools are used for the identification and classification of species.
DNA Barcoding Revolutionizes Species Identification in Iran: A New Era for Conservation
Considering the importance of the issue, the Iranian Department of Environment has made progress in preparing genetic maps of species and developing genetic tags and DNA barcoding for different categories and taxa. In this regard, the department has generated a map for the deer and brown bear species. This strategy will be carried out for many other significant and endangered species in Iran.
Short, uniform DNA segments are used in the specimen identification process known as DNA barcoding. Just like each individual has a unique fingerprint, every species has a unique barcode. To generate an ID, these DNA barcodes can be compared to a reference library.
Plans also include creating genetic maps and barcoding the DNA of many species, such as Iranian birds, reptiles, amphibians, bats, and rodents. The fundamental procedure for DNA barcoding research has expanded and evolved over time.
Beyond research, DNA barcoding can assist in addressing issues that have far-reaching effects in all domains where civilization interacts with biodiversity. Controlling pests and diseases, producing safe food, managing resources, preserving biodiversity, and opening new avenues for scientific research are a few examples of uses.
Nine of the eleven different types of ecosystems found on the planet are in Iran. Furthermore, 41 of the 42 types of wetlands in the world are located in the country.
Iran is home to a staggering 2,100 indigenous plant species due to its biological and genetic diversity, which has led to the emergence of several unique plants and animals.
Iran's five ecoregions
Based on the features that distinguish each region and contribute significantly to the biodiversity and richness of a given area, Iran is divided into five ecological zones, ranging from the lowest to the highest, each with a distinct flora.
Due to the country's vast landmass and the stark differences in latitude between its north and south, as well as the presence of various plains, elevations, and climates, a wide range of vegetation and plant species thrive there.
The northern profile of the Alborz Mountain range, the southern edge of the Caspian Sea, and the green belt are all included in the Hyrcanian ecological zone. This region contains many plant species; more than 80 species of broad-leaved trees, 4 species of conifers, and 50 species of shrubs have been identified so far.
The Iran-Turani ecological zone includes most of Iran's central plateau. It has an average temperature range from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius in the hottest month and up to 5 degrees Celsius in the coldest month. Although the climatic conditions have caused trees to be scattered and far apart due to its large area, it has diverse plant species; 69% of Iran's flora is located in this area.
The Arasbaran forests are situated northwest of Ardebil province in East Azarbaijan province. The diversity of plant species is one of its special characteristics; more than 775 plant species have been identified only in this protected area.
Based on accounts from experts, Zagros oak woodlands are approximately 5,500 years old. The Black Sea's rainfall has played a crucial role in their formation and growth. One criterion for determining this area's border is its dominant plant species: Iranian oak. Other main species include oleander, almond trees, and wild pear trees.
The Persian Gulf-Omani biological region's woods, spanning 2,039,963 hectares, encompass parts of southwest and all of southern Iran's shores. Because of ecological differences, the main vegetation of this area is divided into two territories: the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea. In the Persian Gulf territory, which extends from Qasr-e Shirin to the border of Bushehr and Hormozgan provinces, Ziziphus jujuba, Prosopis farcta, and Populus euphratica form the main vegetation. In the Oman Sea territory, which includes part of Hormozgan province up to the Iran-Pakistan border, Iranian Mesquites and Acacia species are the main plants.
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