“Al-Mutairi” highlights discovery of over 2000 species of fungi in Kuwait
Al-Mutairi expressed deep regret as she acknowledged the destruction of Kuwaiti environment, emphasizing urgent need to restore its vitality and beauty.
A researcher in biological diversity and fungi at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Dr. Matar Al-Mutairi, shared that the number of living organisms recorded in Kuwait exceeds 2,000 species. She emphasized that this diversity indicates the Kuwaiti environment is not lacking in organisms, but rather is rich in them, although unfortunately, much of it has been destroyed.
In an interview with Al Jarida, Al-Mutairi noted that there are more than 45 species of reptiles in Kuwait, and over 800 species of insects, arthropods, or spiders recorded in the country.
Al-Mutairi explained that desert plants in Kuwait vary from one type to another and are categorized into communities. For example, the plants known as Arfaj, Ramth, Thanda, or Arta form a community due to their prevalence in the Kuwaiti desert region. These plants contribute to microbiological changes in the soil, which support the coexistence of various organisms, animals, and birds, thus creating an integrated ecosystem.
Moreover, Al-Mutairi posed an intriguing question that who understands that the Arab Tiger was once present in Kuwait? She stressed that many creatures in the land of Kuwait have either migrated or may have become extinct.
Al-Mutairi explained that there are 35 species of mammals that were once present in the region, including 10 species that are now extinct, notably the Arabian Oryx, Arabian Tiger, and Lynx. Additionally, hyenas and wolves have migrated from Kuwait and can be found in the surrounding border areas where the population is lower.
Types of Foxes
Regarding fox species, Al-Mutairi stated that currently only one type of fox, the “Al-Hosni,” exists and may be observed rarely. She added that there were other types of foxes in the Kuwaiti environment that have since become extinct.
Food Pyramid for Animals
Concerning the food pyramid of animals in the Kuwaiti desert environment, Al-Mutairi explained that the Arab Tiger or Lynx used to be at the top, but now the fox occupies that position, despite being prey for the previously extinct animals.
Al-Mutairi pointed out that the animal known as “Darnbol” has disappeared, although it may still be found in isolated areas like nature reserves. She mentioned that the honey animal was also present in the country.
Al-Mutairi remarked that the “Mongoose” was once abundant but has now become rare and has largely disappeared.
Furthermore, Al-Mutairi expressed that one of the driving motivations behind this research in wildlife stemmed from her experiences with her father, who had a passion for the desert. She called for increased support for efforts to restore vegetation and marine cover to revive wildlife in Kuwait.
