Tehran – Iran, home to more than 37,000 unique animal species, said an official from the Ministry of the Environment (DOE).
Referring to Iran’s specific position in the global biodiversity map, Mohammad-Reza Ashrafzadeh, the intersection of three biogeographical regions and two global biodiversity hotspots, highlighted the need to implement comprehensive and sustainable policies to protect these species, Irib reported.
Officials made a statement on the national day of genetic and biological reserves, which have been observed annually on April 4 since the declaration of the Iranian calendar year in 1393 (March-March 2014).
“According to the latest scientific report, there are over 37,500 animal species and 8,000 plant species living in the country. However, 154 vertebrate species are listed as pre-established species.
“The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) shows that it is at risk of extinction mainly due to climate change, pollution, habitat destruction and invasive species,” the official noted.
Therefore, he added that the Ministry of the Environment has taken measures such as establishing a gene bank, creating a biodiversity atlas, preparing genetic maps for endangered species, and implementing recovery and conservation programs on its agenda.
Protecting genetic reserves is a national and global responsibility requiring cooperation from governments, scientific institutions, the private sector and the public, the formula highlights.
mt/mg