Parks & Reserves: Hara Biosphere Reserve

The mangrove Hara forests "are located on the shores of the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This forest is one of the [rarest] natural phenomena in the world. The trees of this forest are green throughout the year and reach 3 to 6 meters in length . . . [O]ver the course of millions of years, [the Hara trees] have found excellent compatibility with salty water. So, they feed on salty water and, by the repel of salt, will make the water naturally fresh." The forest is noted for being uniquely adapted to its brutal surroundings, with the region experiencing some of the most severe air and water temperature swings of any mangrove ecosystem. "Due to suitable conditions, the mangrove forest is a safe habitat for migratory birds from tropical areas. There are birds like the Goliath Heron, Great egret, Western reef heron, Indian pond heron, Spoonbill, gray plover, the Curlews, and the Large white-headed gulls . . . The forest is also an excellent habitat for fish, mollusks, and crustaceans." In 1972, this unique ecosystem was recognized as being of international importance and was established as a biosphere reserve to safeguard it.