CBD First National Report - Saudi Arabia (English version)

Phylum AnnelidaNo information availablePhylum EchinodermataArabian Gulf 356 0 14 RedSea > 225THREATS TO TERRESTRIAL FAUNAEconomic growth based on urban and agricultural development contributes to pollutionof soil, surface and ground water and to a decrease in biological andlandscape diversity. As a consequence of increasing development, the main threats are:HABITAT DESTRUCTION• Changes in agriculture practices e.g.: technology; abandonment of less favouredareas for agriculture, use of new cultivars and hybrids; promotion of monoculture.• Range reclamation and expansion in farming in natural areas.• Tree cutting and firewood collecting.• Drainage of wetland: land reclamation• Infrastructure development, opening new roads and new industrial complexes.• Uncontrolled urbanization.• Lack of public awareness.• Introduction of alien and invasive species.• Improper and indiscriminate use of pesticides in agriculture and in public healthcampaigns that eliminate a large number of wildlife.OVER-GRAZING• Overgrazing by the increasing numbers of domestic animals.OVER-HUNTING• Uncontrolled over-hunting: the use of four-wheel drive vehicles and firearms.32