Hara Mangrove Forests

About Hara Mangrove Forests

• The Hara mangrove forests are located around Qeshm Island and the Khuran Strait in southern Iran, along the Persian Gulf. 
• They are primarily composed of Avicennia marina and form an important mangrove ecosystem of the Persian Gulf region.
• It is covered by the Mehran Delta, which has mudflats, marshy coasts, and large mangrove forests. 
  • There are numerous small islands, creeks and inlets also.
• It contains the stand of grey mangrove (Avicennia marina) that is called Harra in locally.
  • This stand is largest one in all over the Persian Gulf countries.
• Recognition: It was designated as a protected area in 1972. 
  • The entire area of mangroves, mudflats and creels was designated as Ramsar Site on 1975 as well as a biosphere reserve in 1976.
• This natural reserve is unique among mangrove habitats in West Asia because of vast area and adapted to hot weather and more saline sea water.
• Biodiversity: The Intertidal areas and mangrove zones provide a suitable habitat for abundant invertebrates, which form an important food source for wildfowl. 
  • The reserve supports more than 50,000 individual birds’ habitats in more than 90 species. 
  • Breeding site: Important breeding ground for various migratory birds such as including Great egret, Western reef and Indian pond heron, Crab plover and Stone-curlew.
  • Wintering birds: The site is an important wintering area for Dalmatian pelican, Spoonbill and Greater flamingo.
  • Marine species: It supports species such as Green turtle, Finless porpoise, Humpback dolphin and Common dolphin.
• Globally threatened species: Green turtle, Dalmatian pelican, crab plover, and curlew are important threatened species found in the reserve.
• Local livelihoods: Local people depend on the mangroves for Livestock fodder, traditional fishing using Moshta and recreation and other ecosystem services.