Risks of the spread of the yenbut plant on the vegetation cover in Saudi Arabia

Environmental experts in Saudi Arabia have issued urgent warnings about the increasing spread of the * Prosopis farcta * plant in several regions of the Kingdom. They explained that this continuous encroachment poses a direct threat to local vegetation and biodiversity, especially given the plant's remarkable ability to adapt and grow rapidly in arid and extremely hot environments. This necessitates immediate intervention to mitigate its negative impact on natural pastures and agricultural lands.

What is the yenbut plant and what is the secret to its strength?

The yenbut plant is classified as a perennial thorny plant characterized by its exceptionally strong, branching, woody stems. It possesses a deep root system that extends extensively underground, granting it an exceptional ability to absorb groundwater and compete with native plants and trees for scarce water resources. Furthermore, the plant produces cylindrical, yellow pods containing extremely hard seeds, a vital characteristic that contributes to its rapid reproduction and longevity in the soil, even under the harshest climatic conditions.

The historical roots of the spread of invasive plants in the region

Historically, the desert environments of the Arabian Peninsula have suffered from the introduction and spread of certain invasive and drought-resistant plants, which were sometimes used in desertification control or sand dune stabilization projects without sufficient study of their side effects. Over time, some of these species, such as yarrow and prosopis, have transformed from limited wild plants into serious threats to the local ecosystem, displacing native plant species and altering soil structure and consistency, thus negatively impacting the ecological balance that has been established over thousands of years.

How does the plant spread and invade new areas?

The Weqaa Center explained that this thorny plant spreads through multiple channels that facilitate the transfer of its seeds to new areas. Among the most prominent of these methods is seed dispersal by livestock and animals that feed on its pods, with the seeds being excreted in their droppings and remaining viable for germination. Active winds, rainwater, and flash floods also play a significant role in transporting the seeds over long distances. The spread is not limited to natural factors; it also includes human activities such as transporting soil contaminated with seeds or using unclean agricultural equipment, which facilitates its arrival in pristine agricultural and grazing areas. Its actual spread has been observed in wide areas including Riyadh, Medina, Qassim, Hail, and Asir.

Environmental and economic impacts at the local and regional levels

The continued spread of this plant not only threatens nature but also impacts the agricultural and economic sectors. Locally, the degradation of vegetation cover leads to a decrease in natural pasture areas, harming livestock breeders and increasing feed costs. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom's efforts to combat these plant pests align with the objectives of the "Saudi Green Initiative," which aims to rehabilitate millions of hectares of degraded land and plant billions of trees. Therefore, controlling invasive plants is a fundamental pillar for ensuring the success of these major environmental initiatives and protecting biodiversity throughout the region.

Scientifically approved methods for combating the yenbut plant

Experts pointed out that confronting this threat requires the application of integrated control strategies that include mechanical and chemical methods:

• Mechanical control involves manual removal or the use of heavy machinery and equipment to uproot the plants. Experts emphasize the necessity of completely removing the roots from below the soil surface to ensure they do not regrow from the remaining roots.
• Chemical control: Specialized and approved herbicides such as “Glyphosate” can be used, with the need to follow the approved technical guidelines and instructions to ensure effectiveness and avoid harming neighboring plants.

The “Wiqa” Center emphasized the importance of choosing the appropriate time for spraying and pest control operations, preferably during the plant's active growth stages to achieve the best possible results. The center also urged all field workers to exercise extreme caution and wear appropriate personal protective equipment when handling the plant to avoid injuries from its sharp, piercing thorns.