Invertebrate benthic macrobenthos are key components of marine ecosystems and reliable indicators of environmental health, yet they are increasingly threatened by human activities. This study assessed the ecological impacts of sandwashing discharges on the coastal environment of Tubli Bay, Bahrain, under the harsh conditions of the Arabian Gulf. Macrobenthic assemblages, sediment granulometry, organic content, and chlorophyll a were analyzed along a gradient extending from a sandwashing outlet. Sandwashing discharges significantly altered sediment composition near the outlet, producing muddy deposits characterized by high fine- and coarse-silt content and reduced medium- and coarse-sand fractions. A total of 19 macrobenthic species were recorded, with assemblage patterns showing 93% similarity based on abundance and biomass. The strongest impacts occurred at the high shore, which was continuously exposed to low-salinity, highly turbid discharges. Five opportunistic species colonized this disturbed area, artificially increasing species richness and abundance and obscuring the natural distinction between high-, mid-, and low-shore communities. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that medium silt explained 20% of the variation in faunistic assemblages, while shore height and sediment chlorophyll a accounted for 49% and 15%, respectively. The findings highlight the urgent need for adaptive environmental management to reduce the impacts of sandwashing and similar sediment-disposal activities. Recommended measures include science-based selection of discharge sites, improved outlet design, and continuous monitoring to detect ecological degradation and potential biological invasions by opportunistic species.

Illegal wildlife trade is a major global driver of biodiversity loss, shaped by high consumer demand, transboundary networks, and uneven enforcement. In the Middle East, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, factors such as high purchasing power, cultural traditions (e.g., falconry, prestige pets), and expanding digital marketplaces sustain both legal and illegal flows. We present a nine-year (2017–2025) assessment based on weekly, repeated field surveys at the Friday Market, adjacent pet shops, and private farms, complemented by systematic monitoring of online advertisements on Haraj.com.sa. We recorded 1063 individual animals across 88 species, birds (39.4%), reptiles (52.0%), and mammals (8.6%), and analyzed prices, conservation status, and venue-specific patterns. The most frequently recorded taxa included the white-eared bulbul (Pycnonotus leucotis), common slider (Trachemys scripta), and Egyptian mastigure (Uromastyx aegyptia). Mammals, though fewer in number, commanded the highest prices, particularly cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) and lions (Panthera leo). About 26% of species were IUCN-listed as threatened, with CITES Appendix I taxa fetching higher prices. Findings underscore the need for real-time monitoring, targeted enforcement, and cross-border collaboration to address escalating trade in rare and protected species.

Summary Jordan’s mammalian fauna has experienced significant declines due to intensified hunting since the early twentieth century, leading to the extinction of six species and threatening 39% of the remaining species. This research evaluates the evolution of Jordan’s hunting laws across three historical stages – the Ottoman period, the establishment of Jordan and the modern era – highlighting their impacts on mammalian diversity and identifying legislative gaps contributing to species declines. Using Arabic-based legal databases and historical archives, we found that inadequate legal frameworks, political instability, economic pressures and weak enforcement often accelerated species depletion. Notably, the 1957 Hunting Law permitted hunting of vulnerable species with a licence and of predators without a licence, worsening species decline. Although the 1962 Defense Law aimed to protect nature, its expiration hindered progress. The 1966 Hunting Law largely duplicated the 1957 law, perpetuating these problems, and then hunting regulations were absorbed into agricultural law, undermining conservation efforts. Despite these legal shortcomings, Jordan’s modernization vision provides hope for reform, including the potential restoration of the Hunting Law under the Ministry of Environment and incorporating the right to a healthy environment into Jordan’s constitution to help prevent a mass extinction of mammals.

Abstract. Almutairi AA, Albeshr MF, Eid E. 2025. Vertebrate biodiversity in King Khalid Royal Nature Reserve, Central Saudi Arabia, with a new range-expansion of Trachylepis tessellata. Biodiversitas 26: 4065-4076. Arid protected areas in Central Saudi Arabia remain under-surveyed for vertebrate diversity, constraining evidence-based management. King Khalid Royal Nature Reserve (KKRNR), an arid habitat mosaic northeast of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, lacks contemporary faunal baselines. We conducted the first systematic, year-round assessment of vertebrates in KKRNR to compile a field-verified checklist, highlight notable distributional records, and identify conservation-value habitats. In 2023, we sampled four habitat types (wadis, dunes, plains, plateaus) across 19 fixed sites using complementary methods: diurnal/nocturnal line transects, fixed-radius point counts, visual-encounter surveys, camera trapping (760 trap-days), Sherman live-trapping (665 trap-nights), and verified opportunistic records. We documented 77 species (14 mammals, 43 birds, 20 reptiles), including eight globally threatened taxa and two introduced breeding residents. Birds comprised the largest share (43/77; 56%), consistent with KKRNR’s location on the Palearctic–African flyway. Seasonal richness peaked in autumn (57 species) and was lowest in winter (28), with significant seasonal differences (ANOVA F = 12.84, p < 0.001). Spatial patterns were pronounced: wadis supported the highest diversity (Shannon H? = 2.73; evenness J? = 0.84), whereas dunes and plateaus were comparatively species-poor, underscoring moisture and structural complexity as key drivers. We confirmed a range extension of the tessellated mabuya (Trachylepis tessellata) into the Riyadh region, with seven individuals near cultivated, mesic microhabitats, suggesting broader habitat tolerance or prior under-detection. These results establish a current baseline and pinpoint wadi networks as priority habitats for protection and restoration. Management should safeguard and rehabilitate wadis, regulate grazing/infrastructure on dune and plateau margins, and institute long-term monitoring that couples standardized surveys with passive acoustics and environmental DNA to improve detection of cryptic taxa. The findings align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives for effective protected-area management and biodiversity monitoring in arid ecosystems.

Objective: This study investigates the predatory behaviours of stray cats (Felis catus) in Amman City, Jordan, from April 2021 to August 2024. Stray cats are significant contributors to wildlife mortality and serve as inadvertent tools for biodiversity monitoring. By analysing prey brought by these cats, the research highlights the interactions and distributions of small mammals in urban settings. The research aims to provide insights into the abundance and distribution of shrew species in urban landscapes and explore the potential role of stray cats as contributors to biodiversity monitoring. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in Dair Ghbar, a residential area with agricultural patches, using opportunistic documentation of prey items presented by stray cats. Over 41 months, a total of 20 specimens were identified, including Pygmy White-toothed Shrews (Suncus etruscus, 16 specimens), smaller white-toothed Shrews (Crocidura suaveolens, 4 specimens), and house mice (Mus musculus). Fisher’s Exact Test assessed differences in predation rates, with p = 0.081. Results: Temporal trends revealed peak predation in 2021 and 2022, with seasonal patterns indicating higher captures in warmer months. Predation rates showed no significant difference between the two shrew species, but S. etruscus was predominant, highlighting its adaptability to urban habitats. Seasonal variation is likely to correlate with the reproductive and activity cycles of small mammals. Conclusion: This study underscores the dual role of stray cats as ecological disruptors and biodiversity monitors. The predominance of shrews, which are sensitive to habitat fragmentation, underscores the ecological value of urban green spaces. Despite urbanisation, these areas serve as crucial refuges for biodiversity. Stray cats provide costeffective insights into elusive species like shrews but also pose threats to urban biodiversity. Future research should incorporate larger datasets and complementary methods to balance conservation strategies with urban ecological dynamics.

The Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) is a globally recognized invasive alien species with documented ecological and social impacts. This study employed a citizen science approach to investigate the distribution and perceived ecological and economic effects of the Common Myna in Jordan. An online questionnaire yielded 201 valid responses from all 12 governorates, of which only 50.2% of respondents who recognized the species were included in the subsequent data analysis. Reports from 113 localities indicated that the species is concentrated in urbanized areas of northwestern Jordan. Increased sightings since 2019 suggest population growth and continued expansion across humanmodified landscapes. Increased occurrences near protected and in agricultural areas raise ecological concerns. Respondents identified competition with native birds as the main impact, while effects on crops and human health (e.g., noise) were perceived as minor. Urban expansion and food waste were viewed as key drivers of the spread. Beyond data collection, the survey also functioned as an awareness tool, highlighting the dual value of citizen science for both monitoring and education. Overall, the study highlights the importance of implementing coordinated management measures that integrate regulation, waste management, and public awareness.

The Egyptian mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon) is globally assessed as Least Concern, yet within Jordan, it has been classified as Endangered due to its limited extent of occurrence and rapid habitat degradation. Using camera traps, this study was conducted from 01 June 2020 to 28 February 2022 on a private farm in the Sheikh Hussein area along the lower Jordan River. Despite challenges such as dense reed growth, farm activities, and the presence of workers and roaming dogs, we successfully captured photographic evidence of the Egyptian mongoose displaying various social behaviors, including group and solitary sightings. The species exhibited a diurnal activity pattern and coexisted with other carnivores, such as the golden jackal (Canis aureus), jungle cat (Felis chaus), and red fox (Vulpes vulpes). Our data suggest a small local population, potentially comprising the four individuals observed, vulnerable to localized threats like incidental poisoning and habitat changes due to farming. To mitigate these risks, we recommend implementing Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) as a tool beyond Jordan's national protected area network to achieve effective and sustained long-term in situ biodiversity conservation outcomes in partnership with the military.

Abstract. Abushattal S, Alnasarat H, Alnaimat SM, Eid E. 2024. The use of 18S rRNA for identification of the first record of Tadpole Shrimp Lepidurus apus (Linnaeus, 1758) from Jordan. Biodiversitas 25: 1223-1229. The tadpole shrimps are living fossils that survive in temporary water pools and are considered benthic organisms that swim and feed on tiny organisms. Two genera of tadpole shrimps exist worldwide: Triops and Lepidurus, which share similar ecological niches and habitats but never coincide. The occurrence of the tadpole shrimp Lepidurus apus in Jordan was confirmed for the first time using the 18S rRNA Gene-Based PCR Assay. The experimental approach encompassed the amplification of biological specimens utilizing a universal amplicon measuring approximately 1,500 base pairs (bp), specifically targeting the 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. Subsequently, the acquired sequences underwent scrutiny through BlastN search against the GenBank database for validation and comparative analysis. Genetic analysis was needed to define the species accurately, especially with tadpole shrimp's generally high morphological variability. This species was recorded in a temporary freshwater pool in the desert of Al-Jafr in Ma’an governorate in southern Jordan. The DNA analysis showed a 100% identical sequence of the 18S rRNA gene with Lepidurus apus sequences. This record is important due to the ecological role of the tadpole shrimps as filter feeders, consuming algae, bacteria, and other small particles of organic matter, and as a food source for various fish, birds, and other aquatic animals. In addition, it will pave the way for future research to identify its economic importance, such as its role in mosquito control and its potential role in aquaculture. Finally, tadpole shrimp are sensitive to environmental changes and could be used to indicate climatic changes and habitat degradation. This is mainly due to their sensitivity to changes in water quality, including temperature, pH, and chemical composition, and their niche requirements for survival and reproduction. In addition, monitoring tadpole shrimp distribution and comparing it with historical records can reveal patterns of climate-induced range shifts.

Objective: The reef flats at the Gulf of Aqaba, Jordan, are exposed to the accelerated development associated with increased interest in recreational marine activities such as diving and snorkeling. The physical damage from net entanglement and overfishing has also affected the coral reef. This research evaluated the effects of aquatic, commercial, and land-based activities on the total coral cover in the Aqaba Marine Park (Now the Aqaba Marine Reserve) and the power station located north of the reserve.Materials and Methods: The line transect method was used to estimate the coral cover, followed by measuring the distance of the 13 diving sites to the different landscape disturbances and applying a linear regression analysis.Results: The results showed no significant relationship between the distance to the nearest human disturbance and the entire coral cover in the depth categories. In addition, there was no significant difference between low and high-frequency diving pressure and the mean coral cover at any depth category and no significant difference in the mean coral cover between low and high-frequency snorkeling sites. Sites with higher fishing activity had significantly lower coral cover than sites with lower fishing activity. However, there was no significant difference in the mean coral cover between sights with higher and lower fishing activity at the 21-30 m depth range.Conclusion: The study illustrated that local marine recreational activities (diving and snorkeling) do not affect the coral cover structure up to 10 meters depths. However, considerable coral degradation was found in high fishing zones less than 10 meters deep, which correlates with illegal fishing activities. We believe illegal fishing has negatively affected the coral cover, and recreational marine activities reduced coral cover, especially in diving areas requiring shore entrance.

Objective: The Mediterranean black widow spider; Latrodectus tredecimguttatus (Rossi, 1790) could reasonably be regarded by many health practitioners as living solely in Southern Europe. However, its range extends well beyond the Mediterranean, into central Asia, and reaches parts of China. In this article, we detected this species in Jordan for the first time and confirmed the diagnosis by DNA barcoding. This is also the first clinically significant envenomation case in Jordan. Materials and Methods: The spider was identified using DNA analysis which was extracted using a Qiagen DNeasy Blood and Tissue Kit following the standard protocol. PCR reactions were conducted in 20 µL volumes using 1 µL of DNA template, a final concentration of 0.5 µM of each primer. Cycling conditions consisted of an initial activation at 95°C for 15 min, then 35 cycles of denaturation at 95°C for 30 s, annealing at 45°C for 30 s and elongation at 72°C for 1 min with a final elongation at 72°C for 10. Successful PCR reactions were cleaned using Clean NA Clean PCR magnetic beads (GC Biotech) using the standard PCR cleanup protocol. Bi-directional sequencing was conducted at Genewiz UK. Results: The species was identified using morphological and molecular data. The clinical process was evaluated including the symptoms, medical treatment, and the use of Ferula assa-foetida as self-medicated traditional medicine. Discussion: The first record of this spider is very important for the contribution of the biodiversity of Jordan. In addition, due to its medical importance, the envenomation case and its treatment with Freula are important for local practitioners. Such medically important animals and related cases need to be documented for public health. It is necessary to recognize the existence of venomous spiders in Jordan, and to study their patterns of bites. We also propose a set of recommendations for communities and local hospitals including the necessity of hospitalization and antivenin administration for patients exhibiting serious symptoms. Conclusion: It is important to document envenomation accidents, symptoms, and treatment protocol. Furthermore, traditional medicine practices should be reported as they can interfere with or even hinder medical treatment. The results of this article will certainly apply to a wider range of countries in the region.

Fishing pressure and other human impacts are increasing throughout much of the Red Sea. We assessed the minimum soak time and status of the coral reef fish community in the Aqaba Marine Park, Jordan prior to its official redesignation as a Marine Reserve in 2020 using baited remote underwater video (BRUV). A total of 86 species from 27 families were recorded in 15 deployments, comprising 60 hours of video. A minimum soak time of 150 minutes was found necessary to sufficiently estimate overall species richness. For richness of commercially valuable families, shorter soak times of 60 minutes were adequate, likely resulting from increased attraction of this largely piscivorous group to the bait plumes. A 30-minute soak time was adequate to assess the maxN of commercially valuable families. Our results indicate that the Aqaba Marine Reserve was overfished prior to its establishment as a reserve, as we recorded no large predators and not a single individual from Carcharhinidae, Haemulidae, Lutjanidae, or Scombridae. Other predator families like Epinephelinae, Lethrinidae, and Carangidae were relatively rare with low maxN. Our results provide a useful point of comparison to assess whether the coral reef fish community will recover as a result of enhanced management action and reduced fishing pressure.

Three of the four known feline species in Jordan are categorized as critically endangered, according to the latest Red List assessment of mammals in Jordan, of which caracal: Caracal caracal, sand cat Felis margarita, and jungle cat Felis chaus. The fourth species, discussed within this paper - the wild cat Felis silvestris, is a species of least concern. Human activities such as hunting, poisoning, habitat destruction, and fragmentation are among the pressures seriously affecting the small and restricted populations of critically endangered felines. This study is the first to provide predictions on habitat suitability for the four species based on the two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs), predictions of how greenhouse gas concentration in the atmosphere, of 2.6 (representing "very stringent" corrections to the number of greenhouse gases accumulating in the atmosphere) and 8.5 (the "business-as -usual" or also known as the "worst -case scenario"). Results showed an alarming decline in suitable habitats for all species. The sand cat is predicted to lose its entire suitable habitats in 2050 and 2070 according to RCP 8.5, while both the caracal and jungle cat are to face the very precarious pressure of declined areas of suitable habitat. Jordan's network of protected areas was deemed inadequate, according to this study, to protect the feline species and maintain their population. As potential solutions to counter the combined anticipated impacts occurring from both human activities and anticipated climate forecasts, it is necessary to strengthen the enforcement of environmental policies intended to protect reserves and natural areas, strengthen ex-situ conservation measures, minimize human pressures, to cope with the predicted habitats loss in the future, and to review the current network of protected areas.

A few specimens of the pelagic octopod Argonauta argo (Linnaeus, 1758) were found after they were washed up by currents along the northern beach of the Gulf of Aqaba in Jordan. This article describes this record and provides a review of the species’ sightings worldwide and their importance as prey in maintaining an ecological balance.

Twelve species of ungulates are reported from the wild in Jordan. Three of these, Addax nasomaculatus (Addax), Bos primigenius (Aurochs), and Cervus elaphus (Red Deer) are known only from archaeological excavations. Dama mesopotamica (Mesopotamian Fallow Deer), Oryx leucoryx (Arabian Oryx) and Equus hemionus hemippus (Syrian Wild Ass) have been regionally extirpated in the wild. A semi-captive population of Persian Onager (E. h. hemionus) is held in Shumari Wildlife Reserve. The Arabian Oryx is also managed in semi-captive conditions in two reserves. Except the commonly occurring Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), other surviving ungulate species continue to be under serious threat. Gazella gazella (Palestinian Mountain Gazelle), Capreolus capreolus (European Roe Deer), Gazella marica (Arabian Sand Gazelle), and Gazella dorcas (Dorcas Gazelle) are Critically Endangered, and Capra nubiana (Nubian Ibex) is Endangered in the region. This paper provides a review of the historical and current status of wild ungulates in Jordan, listing the threats and conservation measures and provides recommendations for management and conservation in the future.

There are two terms used to describe the snake in Jordan: Afa'a, referring to the venomous snakes whose characteristics are similar to the family Viperidae, and Thu'ban, which describes non- or mildly venomous snakes and usually is used to describe the rest of the snake species. It is, however, also mistakenly attributed to venomous species including the Palestinian Mole Viper (Atractaspis engaddensis) and the Black Desert Cobra (Walterinnesia aegyptia). Local folklore, in addition to the lack of awareness and inability to distinguish between venomous and non-venomous snakes, results in the indiscriminate and unprovoked killing of all snakes. This study was the first of its kind in Jordan to investigate the rationale behind the negative perceptions of the general public toward snakes by exploring the prevailing general knowledge and attitudes toward snakes in Jordan. The results of the paper support the development of policies, interventions, tools, and awareness campaigns in support of conservation efforts to protect this group of animals in Jordan.

Animalia -Chordata -Mammalia -Eulipotyphla -Soricidae Common name(s): Lesser shrew, Lesser white-

A study on Blanford’s Fox was conducted from Tabuk Province, a poorly studied area of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), from December 2015 until May 2016.  This study adds to our knowledge, where two survey methods were used, which are the live trapping and camera trapping methods.  Five specimens were captured alive, in addition to a dead specimen reported during the survey period.  Measurements of live, captured specimens were obtained and the skull of the dead specimen was measured.  The information provided will serve as a basis for future monitoring of Blanford’s Fox in Saudi Arabia, and it will provide the foundation for future research in the species’ range of occurrence in the Arabian Peninsula.  In addition, more attention shall be paid to establish a joint collaboration between scholars from Saudi Arabia and Jordan to assess the status of Blanford’s Fox along the sandstone escarpments Hisma plateau.

A study on Blanford’s Fox was conducted from Tabuk Province, a poorly studied area of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), from December 2015 until May 2016.  This study adds to our knowledge, where two survey methods were used, which are the live trapping and camera trapping methods.  Five specimens were captured alive, in addition to a dead specimen reported during the survey period.  Measurements of live, captured specimens were obtained and the skull of the dead specimen was measured.  The information provided will serve as a basis for future monitoring of Blanford’s Fox in Saudi Arabia, and it will provide the foundation for future research in the species’ range of occurrence in the Arabian Peninsula.  In addition, more attention shall be paid to establish a joint collaboration between scholars from Saudi Arabia and Jordan to assess the status of Blanford’s Fox along the sandstone escarpments Hisma plateau.

A study on Blanford’s Fox was conducted from Tabuk Province, a poorly studied area of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), from December 2015 until May 2016. This study adds to our knowledge, where two survey methods were used, which are the live trapping and camera trapping methods. Five specimens were captured alive, in addition to a dead specimen reported during the survey period. Measurements of live, captured specimens were obtained and the skull of the dead specimen was measured. The information provided will serve as a basis for future monitoring of Blanford’s Fox in Saudi Arabia, and it will provide the foundation for future research in the species’ range of occurrence in the Arabian Peninsula. In addition, more attention shall be paid to establish a joint collaboration between scholars from Saudi Arabia and Jordan to assess the status of Blanford’s Fox along the sandstone escarpments Hisma plateau.